We speak to so many families on a daily basis. We love getting to know all of them, their goals, why they decided to homeschool, and where they are in their homeschool journey. Most are new homeschoolers with lots of questions, and others are experienced families looking for a change. It’s important for our support team to put their minds at ease by answering their questions and reassuring them that they can do it and everything will be ok.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve received from the thousands of families that we have spoken to over the past 15 years.

Are homeschool programs accredited?

Accreditation applies to institutions like virtual schools or a brick-and-mortar school. Time4Learning is a curriculum provider, not a school, and therefore not accredited.

Are homeschool diplomas legal?

Yes. Since homeschooling is legal in all states, a homeschool diploma issued by a parent is a legal, valid document. Keep in mind though, that each state has its own graduation requirements.

Are homeschool expenses deductible?

Homeschool expenses are not tax deductible, however, there may be tax breaks on the state level, so be sure to check with your tax professional. If you’re looking to save on your homeschooling expenses, sometimes businesses provide discounts for teachers as well as homeschoolers, so it never hurts to ask.

Are homeschool diplomas accepted at most colleges?

Most colleges and universities accept homeschool diplomas, however, they do not require a diploma to apply for admission. Typically, postsecondary institutions will request high school transcripts and/or results from the SAT and/or ACT depending on the school’s requirements.

Can homeschool students go to college?

Of course! In fact, many colleges and universities seek out homeschooled students. Being homeschooled and going to college aren’t mutually exclusive. Homeschoolers planning to attend college should be prepared to provide transcripts and/or results from the SAT/ACT to their college of choice. Each college/university has different admission requirements, so be sure to inquire beforehand.

Are homeschooled students less social?

Not necessarily. Socialization is becoming one of the biggest non-issues in homeschooling. Nowadays, there are tons of homeschool groups and co-ops for families to be a part of. In addition, depending on where you live, some public schools allow homeschoolers to take part in electives, sports, and other activities.

When can I homeschool my child?

You can homeschool your child anytime. Each state has different compulsory attendance requirements so be sure to check with yours. Some parents start homeschooling as early as kindergarten, while others have their children attend public school for a few years and then decide to homeschool for varying reasons. There really is no right or wrong time to homeschool. It all depends on your family’s needs.

When does the homeschool year start?

Families can start their homeschool year at anytime. Some families homeschool year-round, while others might follow a traditional school schedule and start around August or September.

What homeschool curriculum is best for my child?

This all depends on how your child learns best. Are they into technology and prefer to learn with an online program? Do they like to write things out and use workbooks and textbooks? There are tons of homeschool curricula options available. Some families find that using different programs and resources gives their children a well-rounded education and keeps them engaged.

Can homeschool students take AP exams?

Yes, however a few requirements must be met. First, in order for a course to be labeled as AP on a transcript, it must be pre-approved by the College Board AP Central. In addition, correspondence with the AP Central and approval notices for each AP Course must be included with high school transcripts to colleges. Homeschoolers can enroll in online AP courses and make arrangements with an AP coordinator at a local public or private school to register for and take an AP exam. Annual testing takes place in May, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Can homeschool students play sports?

Depending on your state’s homeschool laws, and sometimes even district, some public schools will allow homeschooled students to participate in their sports programs as long as certain requirements are met. Homeschoolers can also check with their local homeschool groups and co-ops, parks and other athletic and sports organizations.

Can homeschool students get scholarships?

Yes! Homeschooled students, just like traditionally-schooled students, are eligible for financial aid when attending college. In addition to merit-based scholarships, there are also scholarships for homeschool graduates available based on athletics, location, need, specific demographics, and more.

Where is homeschool legal?

Homeschooling is legal in every single state. However, be sure to check with your state’s department of education since homeschooling requirements vary by state.

Getting started with homeschooling can be overwhelming and stressful, especially if you don’t know where to begin. And even for families that have been homeschooling for a while, sometimes burnout sets in and things just don’t feel the same. Wherever you find yourself, know that Time4Learning is more than an award-winning homeschool curriculum — we are here to answer your questions and help you homeschool with confidence.

Have more questions or want to share your thoughts? Use the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!