Admissions Applying as a Homeschool Student

Marlboro College is the perfect place for self-directed learners that work best in an intimate educational setting, so it’s no wonder that 10% of our incoming 2011 class had a homeschool background! Just like Marlboro students, homeschool students understand the power of letting one’s passions govern one’s studies. Meet current student Pearse Pinch and learn how his homeschool background prepared him for study at Marlboro.

Applying to college as a homeschool student can be confusing. We are here to help you every step along the way. Following are some helpful tips when applying to Marlboro as a homeschool student:

• Transcripts and academic evaluations - If you have been issued transcripts by a homeschooling agency or cooperative, please include them with your application. The Common Application also offers a “Home School Supplement” to aid you in providing us with your academic information.  You should include what text, online and community resources you have used to approach your studies, including how much time you have allocated to each subject area.  If grades are not available, narrative evaluations are encouraged.
• Letters of recommendation - Marlboro College requires two letters of recommendation. If possible, one should be from the homeschool evaluator, speaking to your academic and personal qualifications. The other letter can be from someone that knows you in a context outside of academics (e.g. employer, coach, minister, volunteer supervisor).
• Writing sample - Marlboro requires all applicants to submit an analytical writing sample. The writing sample should demonstrate your ability to develop and support an argument on a topic of interest.  Writing samples can be uploaded to the Marlboro Supplement at the Common Application site or sent in the mail. While we have no length requirement, writing samples are typically 3-5 pages in length.
• Interviews - Admissions interviews are not required, but are recommended for homeschool students. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your academic background and share your passions with us. If you cannot make it to campus, we are happy to conduct a phone or Skype interview. Contact our office at 1-800-343-0049 to set up an appointment.
• Additional information - Marlboro welcomes any additional information you feel will help us understand how you have approached your studies. This could include reading lists, art portfolios, creative writing samples, music, or student-directed films.

Demonstrating High School Completion

Due to federal financial aid regulations, Marlboro College does require that homeschool students demonstrate high school completion. A homeschool student needs to provide one of the following upon completing their studies and before entering Marlboro:

• High school diploma from a homeschool agency, online school or state of residence; or proof that you have met the requirements of your state for graduation for homeschool students. You may want to refer to the Home School Legal Defense Association's website for guidelines for your home state.
• GED

Documentation of one of the above should be submitted by July 1 for fall enrollment, and January 1 for spring enrollment.