We went to a Be Smart CES fireside last night to hear representatives from Church schools discuss what it takes to be admitted. It was inspiring. Most information presented was not applicable to home schoolers, though. As I looked around the room, there were many of us there, hoping for a more information.
I talked to the recruiter after the meeting and learned that all of the records, hour logs, lab notebooks, carefully and honestly scored tests, assignments, papers, literature lists, and carefully-selected textbooks will not really be considered. For home schoolers (using a non-accredited curriculum), two thirds of the selection process will come down to an ACT or SAT score. Period. The other third will be extra-curriculars and other factors: ecclesiastical endorsement, music, (dance), leadership, service, and “unique” factors (which I hope will include a perusal of our work). A home schooled student will need to have a 27 on the ACT to be considered for BYU. Now for BYU Idaho, they want to see a GED, which is a little insulting, but it can be done.
This ratio was a surprise to me. I always knew I didn’t “count” as a teacher or an institution, but that 2/3 of the measure comes down to one score takes my breath away. But I will continue to keep good records. I will ask more questions of college admissions offices. We’ll definitely prepare for the ACT and SAT tests. And I will eat chocolate…lots and lots of chocolate.
I share this to be helpful, not to invite criticism or pity. I’m off to teach some classes which don’t count, but will ultimately prove helpful in building individuals of substance and character.