Test Score Truth: How Homeschoolers Are Academically Outpacing Their Public School Peers
For decades, many people have assumed that homeschooled students would struggle to keep up academically compared to their peers in traditional schools. But recent research tells a very different—and surprising—story.
In fact, across multiple studies and standardized tests, homeschooled students are consistently outperforming public school students in core academic areas such as reading, math, language, and science.
So, what’s behind this growing academic success? Let’s break down the truth behind the test scores—and why homeschooling might be one of the best academic choices for your child.
What the Research Says
Numerous studies conducted over the past 30 years have shown that homeschooled students perform better, on average, than public school students on standardized tests.
According to the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI):
✅ Homeschoolers score 15 to 30 percentile points higher on standardized achievement tests than public school students.
✅ This academic success is consistent regardless of parents’ level of education or income.
✅ Homeschooled students also tend to score higher on the SAT and ACT and are more likely to succeed in college.
In short: homeschooling works—not just emotionally or socially, but academically.
Why Do Homeschoolers Perform So Well?
It’s not just about the curriculum—it’s about the environment, the freedom, and the personalized learning experience. Here are a few key reasons homeschoolers excel:
1. Individualized Attention
In a homeschool setting, students often receive one-on-one instruction or small group teaching, allowing for immediate feedback, clarification, and targeted support.
2. Flexible Pacing
Students can move quickly through subjects they grasp easily and take more time with challenging topics—leading to mastery, not just memorization.
3. Freedom to Explore
Without the constraints of a rigid school schedule, homeschoolers have more opportunities to dive deep into subjects that interest them, which increases engagement and retention.
4. Reduced Classroom Distractions
Homeschoolers typically learn in quieter, calmer environments—fewer behavioral disruptions mean more time for actual learning.
5. Values-Based and Purposeful Learning
Homeschool families often choose materials and topics that align with their values and goals, creating a deeper connection to what’s being learned.
What About College?
Far from being disadvantaged, homeschoolers are thriving in higher education.
Colleges and universities—including Ivy League institutions—actively recruit homeschoolers for their academic preparation, independence, critical thinking skills, and strong work ethic.
According to a study published in the Journal of College Admission:
Homeschoolers had higher GPAs in college than their public school peers.
They were also more likely to graduate and complete their degrees.
The Takeaway
The test scores don’t lie: homeschoolers are not falling behind—they’re getting ahead.
And it’s not because they’re “smarter” or have access to special resources. It’s because homeschooling gives children the chance to learn in the way that works best for them—at their pace, with their interests, and with their needs in mind.
Want to See These Results for Your Own Family?
At HomeschoolToGo, we make it easy for families to homeschool with confidence.
Our curriculum is:
✅ Personalized
✅ Research-based
✅ Flexible
✅ Aligned with academic benchmarks
✅ Built to support multiple learning styles
We also offer a free Multiple Intelligences Test to help you understand how your child learns best—so you can teach in a way that truly connects.
Final Thoughts
If you're worried that homeschooling might put your child at a disadvantage, let the numbers reassure you:
Homeschooling doesn't lower the bar—it raises it.
👉 Explore our curriculum, download free resources, and get started at www.homeschooltogo.org
Because education should be effective, personal, and empowering. And at Homeschool To Go, that’s exactly what we deliver.