While homeschooled students do most of their learning at home, when it comes to preparing for college, they follow a very similar path to students in traditional schools. Whether it’s taking college entrance exams or applying for financial aid, homeschooled students are ready to take on the college journey just like their peers.

When it comes to preparing for college, homeschooled students need the same knowledge and skills as any other student. The process for preparing for standardized tests is also the same:

• They study for tests in similar ways.
• They register for tests just like other students.
• They can qualify for test fee waivers, just like traditionally-schooled students.

The one difference? Homeschooled students may need to reach out to a local school counselor or test coordinator to arrange fee waivers or sign up for College Board tests like the SAT or PSAT.

Homeschooled students register for the SAT just like everyone else—either online or on paper. When you’re asked to enter a high school code, homeschooled students should use 970000.

One of the best ways to get ready for the SAT is by using Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy®. It's completely free, online, and offers personalized study plans based on past test results or quick quizzes. Plus, students who practice for just 6–8 hours tend to see their SAT scores go up by an average of 90 points!

The PSAT-related tests are great ways for students in grades 8–11 to practice for the SAT. These tests cover the same content as the SAT but at an age-appropriate level, so your child can get a feel for the test format and identify areas to improve. Plus, the PSAT/NMSQT is the test that qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship Program, where they can win scholarships and gain recognition for their hard work.

Homeschooled students should contact a local school counselor to register for the PSAT-related assessments.

The Advanced Placement (AP) program allows students to take college-level courses before they even step foot on a college campus. Homeschooled students can either study AP courses at home or take online AP classes. If you're interested in an online AP course, your child can work with a local school counselor to find a provider that’s approved by the College Board.

In May, students can take AP Exams to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both. If your child wants to take AP Exams, they'll need to contact the AP coordinator at a local school by October 4. AP Services for Students can provide a list of coordinators in your area.

Homeschooled students from low-income families can get fee waivers and reductions, just like their peers at traditional schools. These waivers are available for tests like the PSAT, SAT, and AP Exams. Plus, if your child uses a test fee waiver, they can also get college application fee waivers, making it free to apply to colleges.

In short, homeschooling doesn’t mean your child will have any fewer opportunities when it comes to preparing for college. With the right resources and guidance, homeschooled students can easily follow the same steps as traditional students to ensure they're ready for the next big chapter of their lives!