NCAA

The NCAA has given homeschoolers equal status with traditional students and streamlines their access to its academic eligibility clearinghouse. Advocates of homeschooling student-athletes claim it is beneficial for the talented. In the United States in 2023, there were 2.7 million homeschooled students. Of these students, the athletes are bypassing the traditional high school-to-college-professional route to hone their talents with more flexible schedules and fewer restrictions from school activity associations and league rules. Homeschooling also makes it possible for student-athletes to forge relationships with a wider range of people. Coaches report an advantage on traditionally schooled students because of the more flexible schedule allowing time for two things critical to success as an endurance athlete: nutrition and rest. In addition, there is more time during the day for practice hours. Coaches also say homeschooled students have increased motivation and superior time-management skills. With homeschooling, parents can organize learning around the passions of their children making it a good educational strategy for children with exceptional talents.