Clonlara School is a long-standing alternative education institution that offers a flexible learning model for homeschool families. Their Off-Campus Program allows students to follow their interests while receiving accredited documentation.
Studies show that homeschooled students are accepted to college at rates comparable to or higher than their traditionally schooled peers, and they tend to earn higher GPAs in their first year of college (Journal of College Admission, 2010). Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests.
What is Clonlara School?
Clonlara School is one of the oldest alternative education institutions in the U.S. Founded by Dr. Pat Montgomery in Ann Arbor, Michigan, it supports homeschool families around the world. Their Off-Campus Program promotes a student-led approach, letting kids explore their interests while still getting accredited documentation. Unlike typical umbrella schools, Clonlara allows families to create their own educational path with help from advisors. They are accredited by the Middle States Association and Accreditation International. This means their diplomas are recognized by colleges worldwide. Currently, they serve over 2,000 students in more than 70 countries.
Program options
Clonlara has different options based on your family's needs. The Off-Campus Program offers the flexibility homeschoolers love—you pick the curriculum, set the schedule, and your advisor helps with transcripts. If you're near Ann Arbor, you can access their physical campus with small, multiage classrooms. They also provide online courses for grades 6-12, including AP classes for $695 per half-credit. Plus, there's a Short-Term Enrollment Program for kids needing temporary independent study while enrolled elsewhere. This flexibility is great for international students, as Clonlara can issue F-1 visa documentation.
The full circle learning model
Clonlara stands out with its Full Circle Learning model. Instead of starting with set subjects, learning begins with what students are curious about. Kids ask questions and find answers using resources that match their interests. While it sounds like unschooling, there is structure—advisors help families create learning plans and track academic progress. This model works really well for students who might not do well in traditional schools, like athletes, artists, gifted learners, or those with learning differences.
College preparation
A big concern for many families is whether alternative programs help with college acceptance. Clonlara's accreditation helps with this. Their transcripts reflect each student's unique learning journey while meeting college standards. High schoolers can take online AP courses, and advisors guide families on how to present homeschool experiences to admissions officers. Clonlara has a strong record of students getting into competitive colleges. However, families should still check specific requirements with their target schools, as some may ask for extra documentation from homeschooled applicants.
The bottom line
Clonlara School fills a unique spot in the homeschool landscape. It offers families official accreditation and documentation while allowing them to direct their own education. Their pricing is competitive with other accredited programs, and the student-led approach works great for motivated learners. If your child prefers more structure, Clonlara might feel too open. But if you're looking for flexibility and recognized credentials, it's definitely worth considering—especially with over 55 years of experience in homeschooling.
