How do colleges evaluate homeschool students?

Hi, collegevine community! I'm a homeschooled junior, and I'm curious about how colleges evaluate homeschool students compared to students from traditional schools. Do they look at standardized test scores more heavily, or do they consider other factors as well? Thanks for any insights you can provide!

Hi there! My own child went through the college application process not too long ago, and we had some experience with this. Colleges typically evaluate homeschooled students a bit differently than students from traditional schools. While standardized test scores are important for all applicants, they can be even more crucial for homeschooled students as they provide a more standardized measure of your academic abilities. That being said, colleges also look at other factors, such as your course rigor, extracurricular activities, and any other evidence that showcases your academic achievements and personal growth. It's important to create a strong and detailed homeschool transcript, including course descriptions, to give admissions officers a better understanding of your educational background. Additionally, consider taking subject tests or AP exams to demonstrate your expertise in specific areas. Strong recommendation letters from tutors, coaches, or other mentors can also help provide further context about your accomplishments. Best of luck with your college applications!