Homeschool Grade Converter

The above calculator and the contents below are for informational purposes only. They are designed for Boston homeschoolers, which start at age 6 and end at 16. Other locations may have different age requirements. Please know that local laws and policies are out of our control and can change at any time. We can not be held liable for any errors or omissions. We purposely do not use a submit button for your privacy. The results are automatically populated above.

Last Updated: February 14, 2025

Why use a homeschool grade converter?

Knowing the approximate grade level of your homeschooler can help in registering with the city. For example, Boston has three different forms based on a student's grade level. Even if your family does not utilize grades and may put "n/a" on their form, grade-levels are a metric that the city uses and understands. The city also has "time guides" that are based on grades. In 2nd grade the city suggests 600 minutes of reading per week, versus 0 minutes mentioned for the 8th grade.

Why do some homeschoolers not use grades?

Child-led homeschoolers tend to prioritize deeper understanding and mastering subjects. This approach strives to be holistic, and allow the child to follow their interests and learn at their own pace versus limiting them to set guidelines. For example, a homeschooler may be at a traditional 3rd grade geography level but a 5th grade computer science level.

How are modern curriculums incorporating both?

Modern tools are using other metrics to determine the appropriateness for students. For example, Minecraft education uses grade-levels and age recommendations for their sample lessons. And Roblox Education uses a qualitative "maturity level" metric. Both Minecraft and Roblox Education are game-based learning platforms that hope to provide students with skills for the future.

What limitations does this calculator have?

Events such as double promotion or being held back are not taken into account. For example, 7th graders are typically 12 years old. But if they skipped a grade, repeated a grade, started school earlier or later, or have a birthday super close to the the start of the school year, this could effect how old they are in each grade. Our calculator is meant to give a generic guesstimate of the corresponding grade.