I think I can answer this. I am the Navy Liaison at a MEPS, so I've run into this before.
Recruiters don't like homeschoolers, period. Not because they are smarter, but the amount of legwork required. Homeschoolers have much more to prove in terms of documentation than a regular, joe-blow who just graduated from the town high school.
First of all, they are considered a Tier-II graduate, whilst Joe Blow above is a Tier-I. Think of it as a term for quality of education. We all know homeschoolers receive a much better quality education, but it's the Gummitt we're talking about.
Second, they'll need proof from the parents that they did hold school 180 days a year for x amount of years.
Third, they'll need proof from whatever State saying they've earned thier diploma (or will earn it within a year).
Now, Recruiters have to take all that to their District HQ and have their Education Specialist look into it. This can take 1 day, or 1 week. Once Edspec says good to go, begin processing applicant.
That's it in a nutshell, hope it helps.
Then the Gummint is requiring more than the colleges.
My 17 year old son attended community college classes while in high school, and has enough credits for an AA. The university he's transfering to couldn't care less whether he has a diploma or not, they just want proof of the AA.
However, the community college needs proof of HS qualifications in order to award the AA. But the only proof they need is an affidavit from me (the homeschooling mom) saying he's completed high school work.
No transcript of HS work is needed.
Years ago, my nephew was homeschooled and did very well on the ASVAB. He had recruiters calling from every branch of the service. At that point in time (this was over 10 years ago) there must not have been a problem recruiting homeschoolers.
very helpful.. thanks ill pass it on