While some may dread the high school years, this time is a unique opportunity to walk with your teens to help them find the right path. Many students in the public sector never really know what they want to do once they graduate and can feel lost when trying to enter into post-secondary. For others, they may jump into a particular field only to realize they don’t have the skills, knowledge, or passion to see it through and find themselves having to search all over again for what to do next.
But—preparing for college can be an exciting and challenging adventure for students. The transition from high school to college comes with a lot of changes that can greatly impact a student’s life. It is important to have the necessary knowledge and information to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
As homeschoolers, we can guide them along the way! We can help them hone in on their skills and passions and present opportunities that align with their interests to help them make a solid decision. Moreover, we can help them with gaining the necessary knowledge and information so that they are ready to enter the next phase of life.
One of the first things to consider when preparing for college is selecting the right one. There are many factors that need to be considered when choosing a college such as location, size, cost, and academic programs. Researching and visiting different colleges can help students determine which one is the best fit for them.
Once a college has been selected, the next step is to start preparing for the application process. The college application process can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be made easier. Students need to make sure they are aware of all the requirements that their desired college requires for admission, and make sure that they give themselves enough time to complete those requirements.
The Tools You Need
Get that extra prep in with the Total College Success® subscription, free for SchoolhouseTeachers.com members. This resource includes access to:
- Student Planning Guide
- The Essential Guide to the ACT
- The Essential Guide to the SAT
- Choosing the Right College
- College Admissions Process
- Key Interview and Essay Skills
- College Financial Aid
- Scholarships
- Military College Funding Programs
- Creative Options
- College Success
- Zero Hour Threat interactive games designed to increase standardized test scores, as well as enhance general mathematics and vocabulary skills
- Step-by-step guidance, skills review and exercises, helpful videos, financial aid search tools, expert tips, interactive test practice, and more help you and your teen prepare for life after homeschool.
Preparing for College Has Never Been So Fun!
NAHC is BACK! The Old Schoolhouse® and the College Options Foundation are teaming up again this year to host the National Academic Homeschool Competition with the help of their sponsors: CTCMath and Colorado Christian University. This event is specifically aimed at helping homeschoolers in their preparation for post-secondary endeavors. Not only is it designed to give them the tools they need to succeed, but students will have fun competing with the opportunity to win prizes along the way!
This friendly virtual competition is for homeschool students ages 12–18 and consists of three rounds that can result in significantly improving students’ SAT and ACT scores. The competition will progress as follows:
- Registration Opens: August 1, 2023
- Practice Test Begins: October 1, 2023
- LEVEL I: November 1–15, 2023
- LEVEL II: February 1–15, 2024
- CHAMPIONSHIP: April 17–20, 2024
Gaining these key skills doesn’t have to be boring! Learn and be prepared while having fun with the National Academic Homeschool Competition. Register today!
Other Steps for Preparing for College
When it comes to the actual application, students need to make sure that they portray themselves in the best light possible. This involves presenting themselves well in their college essays, highlighting their strengths and accomplishments, and providing all necessary information that their desired college is asking for.
In addition to the application process, students also need to consider the financial aspect of college. This includes applying for financial aid, scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance to help cover the cost of tuition and other expenses.
Overall, preparing for college is an adventure that requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and proper planning. However, with the right mindset and resources, students can make the transition to college easier and set themselves up for success. This stage of life doesn’t have to seem like a difficult task when you have the right tools at your disposal. Start your journey filled with discoveries, learning new skills and gathering the right tools. You will find the right path and have fun along the way!
Have you started the process with your teens? Let us know in the comments.
HomeschoolingFinds.com Author
With a background in teaching in the public sector, Christine Weller made the decision early on that she would teach her children at home. She has been homeschooling her two boys since birth in the lovely province of Ontario, Canada. Through her Weller Mom blog and on the Firing Up Faith & Family podcast, she works to encourage moms in their journey of motherhood. She is also the author of two children’s books. She is currently working to support homeschoolers everywhere through the roles of Marketing Team Manager for SchoolhouseTeachers.com and one of the hosts for the Hey, Mama! Homeschool Show.