Simply put, it's parent-funded, parent-directed, home-based education. With homeschooling, you're in the driver's seat, making the key decisions about your child's education.

Students take a nationally normalized standardized achievement test at least once every other year, beginning with grade 3 and continuing through grade 11. This can be helpful in evaluating a student's strengths and weaknesses. Low test scores may alert a parent to the possibility of a learning disability or may simply indicate the need for a curriculum change.

No! We have a number of members that travel full time and are currently abroad. For military families, missionaries, or those that just like to travel, we're here to help.

Yes. We can assist you in transitioning smoothly from your child's current education system to homeschooling. Speak with one of our advisors regarding your unique situation!

Good news! According to South Carolina law, you just need a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED) to get started.

Absolutely! Homeschool students often excel in higher education or enter the workforce directly. Studies show that adults who were home educated typically participate in community service, vote, and attend public meetings more frequently than the general population. Plus, they tend to succeed at college at equal or higher rates than their peers.

No worries here! Homeschool students are regularly engaged in social and educational activities outside their homes, such as field trips, scouting, 4-H, political drives, church ministry, sports teams, and community volunteer work.

Here's the beauty of it: There is no standard homeschool day. Children learn through various activities, including reading, conversation, play, outside classes, volunteer work, and apprenticeships. Schedules often adapt as children grow and their needs change.

Homeschool graduates are readily accepted to colleges and are eligible for the same scholarships as public and private school students. For instance, 67% of SCAIHS high school diploma recipients in 2023 planned to attend college, with over 225 scholarships offered totaling more than $1.5 million. Over half of the graduates of the SCAIHS class of 2023 were eligible for a state scholarship.

South Carolina law requires that all children who are 5 years old by September 1st must attend a public or private school or be homeschooled. Parents have the option of signing a kindergarten waiver with the school district.

You have flexibility! SCAIHS members can determine their school calendar, provided that 180 days of documented instruction are completed between June 1 and May 31. Options include traditional nine-month schooling, year-round schooling, or block scheduling.

No! SCAIHS members are not required to log a specific number of hours each day.

SCAIHS requires standardized testing every other year starting in the 3rd grade, recommending tests in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11.

Absolutely. Diplomas are issued at the formal graduation ceremony to seniors who have fulfilled graduation requirements.

It varies! The cost of homeschooling can vary widely, often depending on the amount of time parents can devote to it.

Not at all! Children are encouraged to work at their individual ability levels, which may differ across subjects.

Certainly! Students can progress through the curriculum at their own pace. However, for high school students, additional considerations may apply, and it's advisable to consult with a counselor.

While we don't provide materials, SCAIHS counselors can offer suggestions to help you find the right resources for your child.

Yes, you're in control! Parents have the freedom to choose the curriculum that best suits their child's needs.

That's perfectly fine! College is not the right path for everyone. SCAIHS counselors are available to assist students in exploring alternative post-secondary options.

Yes! SCAIHS provides support through their Exceptional Learners counselors, who can offer individualized advice for homeschooling unique students.

Membership with SCAIHS offers access to a team of experienced homeschool educators, personal guidance counselors, and a reputation for excellence that can benefit students transitioning to college or the workforce.