Q. Can homeschool graduates enlist in the military? I understand it is sometimes difficult.

A. Occasionally, homeschoolers have problems enlisting, not because of discriminatory policies, but because some military recruiters are not familiar with Armed Forces homeschool policy. If this seems to be the case, ask that the recruiter clarify the policy with his or her superior officer and schedule a follow-up appointment.

Here are the basic requirements for a homeschool graduate:
-must have been homeschooled during the previous 9 months;
-fulfill all regular military requirements;
-provide a copy of a high school diploma signed by a parent;
-provide a transcript compiled and signed by a parent (include transcripts from other sources);
-verify the homeschool was legal under state law (provide a copy of NOI or RE);
-score 50 or above on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

The student should state that he is a homeschool graduate. It is not necessary to take a GED in order to join the military. In fact, that will keep a student out of the military at the present time. The military will not accept online school graduates. A few courses may be acceptable, but they want to know the student has had personal instruction.

Yvonne, HEAV