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HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION OPTIONS

Florida Graduation Requirements

Credits Required for Graduation

Although the Florida Statutes do not list specific graduation requirements for homeschooled students, it is wise to follow a path that will enable you to achieve your post-secondary goals. Bear in mind that requirements for the Bright Futures Scholarships (for those applying with a nontraditional private school) and for admission to Florida universities parallel graduation requirements for Florida public school students. Homeschooled students compete with public school students in these areas, so it is best to meet or even exceed these goals.

Since admission requirements for home educated students may be different from the requirements for public and private school students, be sure to check early with the vocational school, college or university your child plans to attend. Some universities require standardized test scores and others require a portfolio with names of books used and material covered in the course.

Florida public schools require 24 credits to graduate. One credit is defined as "a minimum of 120+ hours of bona fide instruction in a designated course of study." One-half credit is 60+ hours of instruction. 

DUAL ENROLLMENT FOR COLLEGE CREDIT
Dual enrollment is when a student is simultaneously enrolled in high school and college courses in either a community college or state university. The credits earned are counted toward both the high school diploma and either an associate degree, a vocational certificate, or a baccalaureate degree. In 1996 legislation was passed to allow registered homeschoolers free tuition, just as public and private school students have enjoyed for years.

Homeschoolers have been provided an invaluable opportunity to accelerate their education and establish a college GPA tuition-free. This is an excellent way for a student to take upper level courses that you do not feel qualified to teach and to ease the student into college life. Students must take placement tests to see if they qualify and can handle college level courses but no grade point average is required. Entrance requirements vary with colleges. Individual schools should be contacted for further information.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE ENROLLMENT
As of May 29, 1997, homeschool students may apply to community college programs with merely a signed affidavit submitted by the student's parent or legal guardian attesting that the student has completed a home education program. Application and admission do not require a GED diploma or a transcript. If the student is already dual enrolled, he is exempt from the affidavit requirement.

Bright Futures Scholarships