One of the biggest questions that homeschoolers face in high school is where to go to university or college. It’s important to consider post-secondary options early because where your child wants to study after graduation can affect what courses they should take in high school as well as whether they need a transcript and diploma or dogwood. An excellent option for homeschoolers is to start their degrees at a small, community college such as Augustine College in Ottawa.
I received compensation for this post; all opinions expressed remain my own.
Why I Chose a Small College as a Homeschool Student
I completed grades 1 through 12 as a homeschooled student in Alberta. I did not earn a high school diploma, but I did challenge five grade 12 exams, which gave me a transcript of marks to use in my university applications. I selected a small, local, Christian university and applied to their Bachelor of Arts program. I wanted a place where it would be easy to find community and an environment that would nurture and support my faith. I found both during my four years there.
As my own daughters now begin to consider life after high school, we are once again looking at post-secondary options and how to get there. While they only homeschooled up to grade 7 and then began attending our local Catholic high school, many of the same considerations still apply. One of my daughters feels overwhelmed by the idea of a huge university campus. One of my daughters is considering going to my own alma mater, at least to begin her degree.
Small colleges such as Augustine College are more likely to take the time to look at a homeschool student’s slightly different application. For example, my alma mater didn’t care that I didn’t have a diploma, but they were very impressed by my grade 12 English mark. Augustine College states on their website that they will accept homeschool transcripts as well as an essay about why students wish to attend in their admissions applications.
These smaller institutions can also offer your homeschooled student the personalized education they have come to expect as homeschoolers. As one student among thirty rather than hundreds, I found it easy to get to know my professors and other classmates. We were encouraged to speak up in class and engage in discussions, which helped us get more out of the lectures and learning time. My professors took a personal interest in me and several became mentors whom I’ve kept in touch with since graduation.
Check out Augustine College!
Located in the heart of Ottawa, Augustine College is a Christian liberal arts institution offering an intensive diploma program in the classical liberal arts. Students explore the great works of philosophy, literature, poetry, music, and science from the Western tradition, preparing them for both higher education and a life of deep learning.
Why Augustine College?
- University-Recognized Credits – transferable to several top universities in Canada and the U.S.
- Ideal for Grade 12 Students – a strong foundation for homeschooled students seeking a path to higher education. You can take Augustine as your grade 12 year!
- Perfect for the Undecided – explore profound ideas and timeless texts before committing to a career path or university program.
Limited-Time Offer! Apply by March 31st, and Augustine College will cover the cost of all course textbooks and reading materials—completely free! Our class is limited to a maximum of 20 students.
Augustine College offers a prime downtown location, nestled within St. Peter’s & St. Paul’s Anglican Church and just minutes from Ottawa’s cultural landmarks, including Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, the National Arts Centre, and the National Gallery. Augustine is an ecumenical school that professes the Apostles’ Creed as their shared witness to the faith. Over the years, they have welcomed Christians from various Protestant denominations, as well as Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, and Catholic students.
Begin your journey at Augustine College and immerse yourself in an education that awakens the mind and enriches the soul.
To find out more about Augustine College, drop by their website or follow them on X, YouTube, Facebook, or Apple Podcasts.
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