
Homeschooling is a valid option for students who want to pursue higher education, and many universities in Canada have welcomed homeschooled students. The University of Ottawa, for instance, evaluates homeschooled applicants on an individual basis. While homeschooled applicants are not required to present a high school diploma, they must provide alternative credentials for admission. These may include standardised test scores, transcripts, letters of intent, and other documents requested by the university.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| University of Ottawa's acceptance of homeschooled students | The University of Ottawa evaluates homeschooled applicants on an individual basis. |
| Application process for homeschooled students | Homeschooled applicants without a high school diploma must present alternative credentials for admission. |
| Required documents | Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, AP exams, etc.), transcripts, and other supporting documents as requested by the university. |
| Admission criteria | Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. |
| Scholarship opportunities | The University of Ottawa awarded $130 million to undergraduate students in 2024 and offers one of the most generous scholarships and bursary programs in Canada. |
| Recommendations for homeschooled students | OFTP recommends that homeschooled students contact their desired universities to determine if they accept homeschooled students and what the specific admission criteria are. |
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What You'll Learn

University of Ottawa's admission requirements for homeschoolers
The University of Ottawa does accept homeschooled students. However, they are evaluated on an individual basis. Homeschooled applicants without a high school diploma will have to present alternative credentials for admission. While homeschooled applicants do not require the usual six 4U- or 4M-level courses associated with the Ontario high school diploma or equivalent, they must have completed the equivalent course for programs requiring specific grade 12 mathematics or science admission prerequisites. This can be demonstrated through standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, AP exams, or 4U-level courses from an accredited Ontario high school.
The University of Ottawa may request any other documents necessary to evaluate an applicant's file. All documents submitted become the property of the University and will not be returned. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all requested documents are received by the deadline.
There are several options for homeschooled students applying to Canadian universities. These include:
- Completing the G.E.D. and submitting proof of completion.
- Applying as a mature student (21 years of age or older).
- Submitting a transcript showing homeschooled grades, along with a letter explaining their homeschooling background and reasons for wanting to attend the university.
- Completing two to three years of university or college from Ontario-accredited schools or equivalent, or obtaining a bachelor's degree.
- Providing written confirmation from a duly authorized representative of the provincial or state department of education, stating that they have completed Grade 12 under homeschooling provisions.
- Filling out a form confirming their homeschooling status and providing a transcript of Grades 11 and 12 of their homeschooling program.
- Achieving a minimum SAT score of 1100 or more.
It is important to note that each university may have its own specific requirements for homeschooled applicants, and it is recommended to contact the institutions directly to determine their criteria and policies for admission.
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Homeschool students' eligibility for scholarships
The University of Ottawa evaluates homeschooled applicants on an individual basis. While the university does not specify the eligibility criteria for scholarships for homeschooled students, it does offer one of the most generous scholarships and bursary programs in the country. The university awarded $130 million to undergraduate students in 2024.
Homeschooled students can take various paths to apply to universities. They can complete the G.E.D. and submit proof of completion, apply as mature students, or submit a transcript of their homeschooled grades. Some universities require homeschooled applicants to submit a letter explaining their homeschooling background and their reasons for wanting to attend the university.
Additionally, some universities may require homeschooled applicants to achieve a minimum SAT or ACT score. For example, Brandon University asks for an SAT score of 1100 or more, while Sault College prefers an SAT score between 1350 and 1400.
It is important for homeschooled students to approach their universities of interest well in advance to determine the specific criteria and policies for acceptance. Even if a university does not have a specific admissions policy for homeschoolers, many have considered and admitted homeschooled students.
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Application process for homeschoolers
The University of Ottawa does accept homeschooled students. The university evaluates homeschoolers on an individual basis. While homeschooled applicants are not required to have the usual six 4U- or 4M-level courses associated with the Ontario high school diploma or equivalent, they must complete equivalent courses through standardized tests for programs requiring specific grade 12 mathematics or science admission prerequisites.
The University of Ottawa does not have a specific admissions policy for homeschoolers. However, they may request any other document necessary to evaluate your file. All documents become the property of the University and will not be returned to applicants. You are responsible for ensuring that the University receives all requested documents by the deadline.
- Check with the university to see if they accept homeschooled students and what their criteria/policies are for acceptance.
- Complete the G.E.D. and submit proof of completion.
- Apply as a mature student if you are 21 years of age or older.
- Submit a transcript showing homeschooled grades along with a letter explaining that you have been homeschooled and your reasons for wanting to attend the university.
- Provide a one- to two-page description of your program of studies, including specific objectives and a description of the content of courses in grades 11 and 12.
- Supply/create a transcript of grades 11 and 12 of their homeschooling program.
- Write a letter outlining why you want to attend university.
- Have a SAT result of 1100 or more.
- Complete one of the following: a grade 12 course, a departmental exam, another university course, an Advance Placement course, or a SAT II test in one subject.
- Submit all required documents by the deadline and regularly check your application status.
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Standardized tests for homeschoolers
Homeschooling is a valid alternative to traditional schooling, and many universities and colleges in Canada are open to admitting homeschooled students. The University of Ottawa is one such institution that accepts applications from homeschooled students. However, they are evaluated on an individual basis, and the university may request additional documents to assess the applicant's suitability.
Standardized tests are a crucial aspect of the admissions process for homeschooled students. These tests provide an objective means of evaluating the knowledge and skills of homeschooled applicants. Here are some essential points about standardized tests for homeschoolers:
- Types of Standardized Tests: There are two main types of standardized tests: criterion-referenced tests and norm-referenced tests. Criterion-referenced tests assess what a student knows, while norm-referenced tests rank students in comparison to their peers. Criterion-referenced tests are often preferred by home educators as they provide insight into the skill areas a child has mastered or needs improvement in. Norm-referenced tests, while less common today, are still used by some homeschooling families and private schools.
- Test Availability and Administration: Standardized tests for homeschoolers are typically administered by qualified individuals, such as certified teachers or proctors, in neutral locations. They can be conducted in a group or individual setting and may take place in libraries, local testing centers, or online via platforms like Zoom. Some states allow homeschooled students to take criterion-referenced tests at local public schools.
- Test Publishers and Practice Tests: Standardized test publishers typically do not sell tests directly to homeschoolers or the public to maintain test reliability. Tests are usually obtained through private testing companies serving homeschooling families. Practice tests are optional and a matter of family preference. They can help identify areas of improvement but may also be seen as unnecessary if a family already knows their child's strengths and weaknesses.
- Test Selection and Requirements: When selecting a standardized test, it is crucial to ensure it meets the requirements of the state or institution to which you are applying. Some states mandate testing in specific subjects, while others have static lists of accepted tests. Always verify that the chosen test is accepted and request a sample student report to understand the level of detail provided in the results.
- Test Scores and Admissions: Test scores play a significant role in the admissions process for homeschooled students. Universities often consider SAT, ACT, AP exams, and other standardized test scores as part of their evaluation criteria. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, but it is an essential step in demonstrating academic readiness.
- Alternative Assessments: In addition to standardized tests, homeschooled students may also be evaluated through portfolios, less formal assessments, or alternative admission routes. Some universities offer mature student admissions or accept proof of completion of programs like the General Educational Development (GED) test. It is important to research the specific criteria and policies of the universities you are interested in applying to.
In conclusion, standardized tests are an integral part of the admissions process for homeschooled students applying to universities. Homeschoolers should carefully select tests that meet state and institutional requirements and ensure proper test administration to maintain objectivity. Test scores, combined with other application materials, help universities make informed decisions about homeschooled applicants.
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Homeschooling in Ontario
To begin homeschooling in Ontario, parents can choose not to register their children for kindergarten if they are under six years old. For children aged six and above who have never been enrolled in school, there is no need to register them with the local school board; parents can simply opt for homeschooling. However, if a child is already enrolled in school, parents must formally withdraw them. This can be done by sending a notification to the school or school board, and there is no requirement to mention homeschooling in this notice. Alternatively, parents can use the ""Notice of Intent to Homeschool" form, which should be acknowledged by the school board. It is recommended to allow for a transition period before starting homeschooling.
Parents are required to provide written notification of their intent to homeschool to the school board annually before September 1st. This notification should include the names, genders, and dates of birth of the children being homeschooled, along with the telephone number and address of the home. The school board should then send an acknowledgement letter and consider the child excused from school attendance, as per the Education Act. The board may investigate if there are concerns about the quality of homeschooling.
When it comes to university admissions for homeschooled students in Ontario, there are a few options. The University of Ottawa evaluates homeschooled applicants individually and may request various documents for evaluation. Homeschooled applicants without a high school diploma must present alternative credentials, such as standardized test scores or equivalent courses from accredited schools. Redeemer College also welcomes homeschooled students and has specific admission requirements for those with an Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) program background. Additionally, some universities in Ontario, such as Sault College, consider each homeschooled application individually and rely on test results and independent assessments. It is recommended that homeschooled students reach out to their desired universities to determine their specific admission policies and requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the University of Ottawa does accept homeschool students.
The University of Ottawa evaluates homeschool applicants on an individual basis. While homeschool applicants do not require the usual six 4U- or 4M-level courses associated with the Ontario high school diploma or equivalent, they must present alternative credentials for admission. This includes completing specific grade 12 mathematics or science admission prerequisites through standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, or AP exams. Additionally, homeschool students may be required to submit transcripts of their homeschooling program and a letter explaining their reasons for wanting to attend the university.
Yes, the University of Ottawa has created a form for homeschool students to fill out, indicating that they have been homeschooled and are registered with their local school board. OUAC, which handles applications to Ontario universities, may also be involved in the process, and students should refer to their video tutorials for more detailed information.
It is recommended that homeschool students approach the University of Ottawa well in advance to determine the specific criteria and policies for acceptance. Additionally, homeschool students should ensure that they meet all the required deadlines and submit all the necessary documents, which may include standardized test scores, transcripts, letters of explanation, and any other requested materials.









































