Homeschooling is an increasingly popular educational option in the United States, with more than two million children being homeschooled. While homeschooling offers many benefits, including the ability to customize a child’s education, it also presents unique challenges, including how to assess a child’s academic progress and prepare them for college and career opportunities. Standardized tests can play an important role in addressing these challenges, but which standardized test is best for homeschoolers?
There are several standardized tests that homeschoolers can choose from, including the SAT, ACT, and various state-specific tests. Each test has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best test for a particular homeschooler will depend on a variety of factors, including their academic strengths and weaknesses, their college and career goals, and the requirements of the state or school they plan to attend.
Here is a closer look at some of the most popular standardized tests for homeschoolers, and what homeschooling families should consider when choosing a test:
1. SAT
The SAT is one of the most widely recognized standardized tests, and is accepted by most colleges and universities in the United States. The test covers math, reading, and writing, and is designed to assess a student’s readiness for college-level work.
For homeschoolers, the SAT can be a good option because it allows them to demonstrate their academic abilities on a standardized test that is widely recognized by colleges and universities. Additionally, the SAT is available in both paper and digital formats, making it accessible to students who prefer one format over the other.
One potential drawback of the SAT is that it does not align with all state-specific requirements for homeschoolers, so homeschooling families should check with their state’s homeschooling regulations to ensure that the SAT meets their requirements.
2. ACT
The ACT is another popular standardized test that is accepted by most colleges and universities in the United States. The test covers English, math, reading, and science, and also includes an optional writing section.
For homeschoolers, the ACT can be a good option because it covers a broad range of subject areas, including science, which is not covered on the SAT. Additionally, the ACT is available in both paper and digital formats, making it accessible to students who prefer one format over the other.
One potential drawback of the ACT is that it is not as widely recognized as the SAT, particularly on the East Coast. However, this is changing as more colleges and universities are beginning to accept the ACT as an alternative to the SAT.
3. State-Specific Tests
Many states require homeschoolers to take a state-specific standardized test to assess their academic progress. These tests are designed to ensure that homeschoolers are meeting the same academic standards as their public-school counterparts.
For homeschoolers, state-specific tests can be a good option because they are aligned with state-specific requirements and provide a clear benchmark for academic progress. Additionally, these tests can be less expensive than the SAT or ACT.
One potential drawback of state-specific tests is that they may not be as widely recognized by colleges and universities outside of the state, which could limit a student’s college and career opportunities.
4. CLEP
The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a series of standardized tests that allow students to earn college credit for knowledge and skills that they have acquired through independent study or other non-traditional learning experiences.
For homeschoolers, CLEP exams can be a good option because they allow students to demonstrate college-level knowledge and skills without taking a traditional college course. Additionally, CLEP exams can be less expensive than traditional college courses.
One potential drawback of CLEP exams is that they may not be accepted by all colleges and universities, and may not be recognized by some employers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Standardized Test
When choosing a standardized test, homeschooling families should consider several factors to ensure that they select a test that is the best fit for their child and their family. Here are some key factors to consider:
- State and College Requirements
Homeschooling families should first check with their state’s homeschooling regulations to determine which standardized tests are required or accepted. Additionally, families should research the testing requirements of the colleges and universities that their child plans to apply to, to ensure that the chosen test is recognized and accepted.
- Test Content and Format
Different standardized tests cover different subject areas and are designed in different formats. Homeschooling families should consider their child’s academic strengths and weaknesses, as well as their learning style, when selecting a test. For example, if a child excels in science, the ACT may be a better fit than the SAT, which does not cover science.
- Cost
Standardized tests can be expensive, and the cost can vary depending on the test and the location. Homeschooling families should consider their budget when selecting a test, and look for cost-effective options, such as state-specific tests or CLEP exams.
- Test Preparation Resources
Preparing for a standardized test can be a daunting task, and homeschooling families should consider the availability of test preparation resources when selecting a test. Some tests, such as the SAT and ACT, offer online resources and study materials, while others may not have as many resources available.
Homeschooling Philosophy
Homeschooling families should also consider their homeschooling philosophy when selecting a standardized test. For example, if a family emphasizes experiential learning and independent study, a test like the CLEP may be a good fit. Alternatively, if a family values a more traditional academic approach, a test like the SAT or ACT may be a better fit.
Standardized tests can be a valuable tool for homeschooling families to assess their child’s academic progress and prepare them for college and career opportunities. However, selecting the right test requires careful consideration of several factors, including state and college requirements, test content and format, cost, test preparation resources, and homeschooling philosophy. By choosing a standardized test that is the best fit for their child and their family, homeschooling families can ensure that their child receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college and beyond.
