Are Online High School and Homeschool the Same Thing?
By: Katelyn Fahrenbruck Weston
December 2022
Are you thinking about high school, either for yourself or another potential student? You may be looking outside the traditional school box for many reasons - age, learning style, a desire for flexibility, etc. That can lead you to two main options, homeschool and online school! But, are they the same thing?
In short, no!
Homeschool and online high school are both options that can be done with flexible schedules, from home, and to a classroom of one. However, they have a few key differences you should know before you make the choice between online high school and homeschool.
When you choose to homeschool, you are taking the full responsibility for the education provided either to yourself or your student. In some states, there may be requirements associated with that responsibility, such as submitting curriculum plans and taking standardized tests.
Online school does that work for you. While you are still schooling at home, you are following a program that has already been approved and accredited. That means no guesswork about what subjects or courses to take.
Who can be homeschooled?
Anyone can be homeschooled, and you don’t need to be a teacher to successfully homeschool a child or loved one. There are children who are homeschooled from a very young age, some who begin homeschooling in middle school, and others who are traditionally schooled into high school. You can start homeschool at any age.
Homeschooling during the high school years can be particularly beneficial! When students are able to pursue their own interests and passions in the high school years, they may find themselves in a better position to jumpstart their career or their higher education journey.
Homeschooling is growing in popularity both in the United States and abroad every single year. There are new resources, programs, and opportunities becoming available to the student interested in a nontraditional high school experience!
Who can attend online school?
Online school may be an option for any student who has consistent and reliable access to the internet, whether via a smartphone, a laptop, or a tablet. If you have those things, you’ll be able to participate in online school at any age.
Some students and personality types benefit greatly from the structure of online schooling! When the assignments are preplanned, you have a way to measure your progress through the programs.
Which is right for me or my student - online school or homeschool?
While they do have similarities, there are key differences in online school or homeschool as an option for nontraditional students.
Homeschool might be the best option for you if:
- You are easily self-motivated
- You have niche interests or hobbies that take priority
- You have access to someone to help teach you material and monitor your progress
Online school might be the better choice if:
- You prefer a more standardized learning experience
- You need the material already planned for you
- You’re looking to pursue a career in a career track offered for high school
- You don’t want to have to keep up with changing state regulations about high school
These, among other factors, should be considered when looking at nontraditional high school options. Both can be options for you or your student, but there may be a more suitable choice depending on the personality of the student. With room to explore in either option, it could be worth your time to learn more!
