a. How early is it realistically possible to attend college?
b. How early is best for my student to attend college?

There have been numerous documented cases of students attending college before they’ve reached double-digits in age, but these are rare cases, and certainly not the norm. If a student has completed the necessary requirements to graduate high school, there is nothing to keep him from attending the local university, unless they have a minimum age requirement. (Always check with the admissions department of the intended school to verify their specific requirements.)

So the answer to the first part of the question, “how early is it realistically possible to attend college?” is as soon as the student has met the necessary academic requirements for high school graduation, as opposed to a certain age.

Now, just because a student can attend at such an early age doesn’t necessarily mean that he should. The college years are a time of growth and maturation, a time when most students are on their own for the very first time, away from mom and dad, and the rules and regulations that go along with living at home. Because of this, and also because the majority of their peers will be in the traditional college age range of 18-24, I would recommend against it before age 16 or so.

Statistically, few students below this age can handle the many pressures and influences thrust upon them for the first time in college, especially if living on campus in a dormitory environment. Although many students at this age can handle the academic rigors of college, psychologically it’s not recommend, as they will have missed out on the high school developmental years that play a huge part in college preparation.

All of this aside, every student is different, and you’ll need to make the decision based upon your own child’s needs and abilities. If your student is on pace to graduate early, have him take dual enrollment courses to get a feel for the college environment before making the jump to a four-year university with on-campus living. Part-time work in conjunction with online courses are another option. Finally, remember that the high school years are a great time to volunteer or cultivate a hobby that can provide enjoyment for years to come, as well as possible business ideas for a future career.

A rigorous homeschool curriculum is always recommended, but make sure to balance it with extra-curriculars that will round out your student. Balance is the name of the game. A well rounded student will be the most prepared for college along with whatever else life can throw at him!

“If a child completes a college level course in 8th grade can it go on their high school transcript?

As the head of your own home school, you get to choose what goes on the transcript. That’s the great thing about homeschooling, the flexibility. Just make sure that all the activities you are counting for credit actually are relevant to the particular subject, and will help increase your student’s test scores in that area as well.

When you say a college level course completed in 8th grade, are you referring to a dual enrollment class? Although I’m unfamiliar with any university allowing a student that young to take college courses, if it did so happen, by all means, count it on the transcript. The age or “grade” of the student when the course work is completed is not nearly as important as the level of course work completed.

“What should my 10th grader be doing right now to prepare for college applications?

10th grade is a little early to begin applying for college, but there are several steps that can be taken to best prepare your student for those applications come senior year.

Make sure she is taking a rigorous curriculum of courses that will challenge her. Keep the grades up. Test preparation is also crucial here as well. If she hasn’t taken the PSAT yet, look into taking that this year. Keep solid and accurate academic records that can be added into her transcript and/or portfolio. If she’s involved in sports or extra-curriculars, make sure she is consistent with these. Leadership roles are good. Begin looking at potential colleges she might want to attend. If those schools are located relatively close, attend their open house/preview days. Lastly, make sure her writing is steadily improving. This can be a huge factor for the entrance essay that most colleges require. (Not to mention scholarships as well!)

What are the five most important things that colleges are looking for, i.e. extracurricular activities, leadership, etc?

Now this is a tough question, and the answer can change based up certain variables. Is the student applying to an Ivy League school or a local community college? Does he want to go into computer science or pursue a liberal arts degree? The answer to these questions are vital in determining what the individual schools are looking for. However, all that aside, there are certain things that every student can do in order to best prepare himself for admittance to the top colleges and universities.
1. Grades. No matter what school or program a student is applying to, his grades will matter.
2. Test scores. Since most colleges and universities see home-schooled students as not taking an objective curriculum compared to their public or private schooled counterparts, standardized test scores are even more important than grades.
3. Public service. Schools want to see that a student has been involved and is giving back to the community.
4. Extra-curriculars. Just as important as the others, colleges want to see that a student is well rounded and not one-dimensional. Whether it’s sports, music, 4-H, Scouting, etc. extra-curriculars are extremely important.
5. Letters of recommendation. Most universities require 2-3 letters of recommendation from a non-family member. Remember those extra-curriculars and public service activities? That’s where these letters should come from.

What is the easiest way to find out about scholarship money and apply?

Each school has their own institutional scholarships, so it’s best to check with them to see what they offer and the qualifications. Fast Web is a great resource for outside scholarships and grants. Also, filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the best option to see what your family qualifies for in both federal and state aid.

Any other suggestions? Please weigh in if you have other suggestions or resources.