Surprising Facts About Home School Diplomas

Does your child need a home school diploma? Well, the answer to that is both "yes" and "no". A home schooled student does not need a diploma to get into college, nor is it necessary to get a job. However, you may choose to provide your children with a home school diploma for other reasons.

Home School Diplomas Are Not Necessary

Contrary to popular belief, a home school diploma is not necessary to get into a good college. Perhaps that information is shocking, but it won't be in a minute. A diploma for either home school or a traditional high school states that the student has completed all the requirements that are needed to graduate. Basically, these requirements are the same from state to state, and include proficiency in core subjects, like math, English grammar, history and science. So, to put it simply, a diploma merely acknowledges that certain subjects have been mastered to an acceptable degree. However, colleges want a lot more than that - they require a detailed transcript. This document lists all the courses taken during high school, with the grades achieved in each subject. A transcript will also have the SAT or ACT scores listed. It is this type of criteria that a college looks for on an application. At no time will a college request to see a home school diploma. However, a transcript of the high school years is absolutely mandatory to get accepted into college.

The same is true when applying for a job after graduating from high school. Most employers will ask if a person has graduated, but at no time will they demand to see a diploma. When filling out job applications, there may be a math or verbal test, depending on the type of position, and this will show the prospective employer the presence or absence of certain basic skills.

Why You Should Give Your Child a Home School Diploma

Presenting your child with a home school diploma, perhaps at a ceremony sponsored by your local home school group, will make a memory that will last forever. There are many companies that offer beautifully engraved diplomas, as well as the traditional cap and gown that can be worn for a ceremony. Parent-teachers can choose a name for their home school, which can be put on the diploma. Graduating a child from home school is really an accomplishment for both the student and the parent. Having a diploma seals the moment with a tangible reminder.