Frequently asked

Straight answers.

The questions families actually ask — about learning, cost, tech, and the diploma.

Academics
How does self-paced, mastery-based learning actually work?
You advance when you've shown you understand a unit — a mastery check at 85% or better — not when a bell rings. Fall short and you get targeted practice, then a retake. No moving on with gaps.
Is it really self-paced, or are there deadlines?
Both. You set the pace inside each course, but live seminars and term checkpoints keep you moving. Your advisor builds a schedule around your goals and time zone.
Do you offer middle school?
Yes — grades 7 and 8. Younger students get more live touchpoints and a tighter guardian loop while they build strong habits.
What if my student is ahead, or behind?
We place by mastery, not age. You might take Algebra I in 8th grade or revisit foundations in 9th — whatever's actually true for you.
Admissions & tuition
How do I apply, and how long does it take?
Four steps, about 15 minutes, save anytime. An advisor calls within one business day to map your path.
What does it cost, and is financial aid available?
Full-time tuition is published on our Tuition page, with part-time and single-course options. Need-based aid and the merit Spark Scholarship are available — most families who ask qualify for something.
What's your refund policy?
Full refund within the first 14 days of a term, prorated after that, minus a small registration fee. Single courses follow the same 14-day rule. Details live on the Tuition page.
Can I enroll mid-year, or take just one course?
Yes. We admit on a rolling basis and offer single-course enrollment for students at other schools.
Tech & support
What do I need to attend — and what about time zones?
A laptop, a stable connection, and a webcam for seminars. Live classes are scheduled around your time zone, and every session is recorded so you can replay it.
My student has an IEP or 504 — can you accommodate?
Yes. Note it on your application and our learning-support team builds accommodations into your courses and live classes from day one.
Diploma & accreditation
Will my diploma be accepted by colleges — and is it transferable?
Yes. JHOHS is fully accredited (Cognia and WASC), so your diploma is a standard US high-school diploma accepted by colleges nationwide. Credits transfer to and from other accredited schools; your advisor handles the paperwork.
Are your courses NCAA-eligible?
Our core courses are submitted for NCAA eligibility, so student-athletes can stay on track. Check specific courses with your advisor before you commit to a sport's timeline.

Still have a question?

Admissions answers daily, 8a–6p. Call (607) 999-0199 or send a note — an advisor follows up, usually same day.