This is an overview of how to apply to a college, what financial aid is available, and tips for finding the best university for you.
Finding a Great College: Tips for Homeschooled Students
Pray for the process and find a guide
We know choosing a college can be stressful. Pray that God would provide direction and clarity about the best place for you to thrive. Please keep in mind too that you don’t need to figure this all out on your own. At Calvin we have admissions counselors whose job, literally, is to help you find answers to questions, ask questions you may not be thinking about yet, and to pray for your college search.
Visit in person
The truth is there’s no better way to help you imagine what life will be like at a school than checking out campus in person. At Calvin we can craft a customized visit for you! Plus, you'll qualify for the $2000 Visit Grant.
Ask about financial aid
Two things to know: many schools offer more than one kind of aid, and not all schools give aid that automatically renews each year. At Calvin there are several kinds of scholarships and grants that renew each year. It’s called the Knight Promise.
Gather transcript materials
Keep scrolling for more details on what to include in your transcript, as well as a sample template. You'll submit this along with your Calvin application.
Explore faith and learning
Every Christian school emphasizes faith and learning differently. Here’s a question you can ask an admissions counselor: “How is faith connected to learning at your school?” At Calvin, faith is woven into everything we do, including teaching and learning.
Apply
Follow the steps to apply to Calvin! It’s free until November 1. (Tip: if you plan to apply to more than one school, the Common App is a convenient option.)
Transcript Requirements
What do I include in my transcript?
Transcripts for homeschooled students must contain:
- Your cumulative GPA
- Semester-by-semester coursework and GPA
- A grade for each course
- Very brief course descriptions that include the type of curriculum and/or textbooks used
- Any completed college or co-op coursework
- Optional: ACT, SAT, or CLT scores
Download a sample transcript form (PDF)
Where do I send my transcript?
Your transcript must be signed by a parent and sent directly to your admissions counselor or admissions@calvin.edu.
Calvin University does not discriminate with regard to age, race, color, national origin, gender, or disability in any of its educational programs or activities.
We're Here to Help
Please remember you don't need to navigate your college search all on your own.
Let us know you want to know more about Calvin, and an admissions counselor will come alongside to guide your discovery of what life at Calvin could look like for you.
Spiritual Growth
Calvin is a community of faith and discovery. You'll gain biblically-informed knowledge and wisdom as you explore your calling and grow into the unique person God created you to be.
Academic Support
At Calvin, you'll be set up for success. Resources include professor office hours, tutoring, study sessions, and academic coaching. Results will include fresh study strategies, time management skills, and more.
Learn more about our academic programs, core curriculum, and educational framework
Healthy and Safe
Calvin offers support ranging from comprehensive primary care and fitness classes to counseling, disability services, campus safety, and beyond.
Want to Get a Head Start on Your College Career?
Consider taking courses at Calvin University as a high school junior or senior!
Experience for yourself what college-level courses at Calvin are like through our dual enrollment program.