Frequently Asked Questions

Flexible Start Dates & Academic Calendar

At NFC Academy, students can begin their studies at any time of the year—we’re in session all 12 months to offer maximum flexibility for families.

Each student starting a new school year at NFC Academy is given 180 school days to complete their academic work, meeting the standard hour and day requirements for a full school year.

For students who transfer into NFC Academy during their first semester, the school year is prorated based on the amount of work accepted and transferred from their previous school.

Daily Lesson Planning at NFC Academy

Online Program (Grades 3–12)
In our Online Program, NFC Academy manages and directs the lesson plans for each subject through the online learning platform. Daily assignments are automatically scheduled by the system, aligned with a 180-day academic year, ensuring consistent progress throughout the year.

K–2 Digital Video Streaming Program
This program follows a daily structure where the parent or home teacher uses the assigned video lesson for each course. After the day’s work is completed, the system automatically updates the student’s schedule to reflect their progress—keeping everything organized and on track with the 180-day school year.

K–2 Print-Based Book Program
Students in the K–2 Book Program receive the NFC Academy Daily Lesson Planner, which clearly outlines each day’s assignments. This structured guide helps the home teacher maintain consistent academic progress across all subjects throughout the 180-day academic year.

School Year Length & Extension Policy

All NFC Academy students in grades K–12 are provided with a 180-day school year to complete their coursework.

Extension Policy
Students may be granted up to two additional months to complete their school year, allowing for a full 12-month calendar year if needed.

• First Extension (1 Month):
  Granted at no additional tuition cost for all students, including those in the Book Program (K–4), the Parent-Led Online Program (Grades 3–8), and the Teacher-Led Online Program (Grades 3–12).

• Second Extension (Final Month):

  • Book Program (K–4) and Parent-Led Online Program (Grades 3–8): No additional tuition charge.

  • Teacher-Led Online Program (Grades 3–12): A standard monthly tuition fee will apply.

These extensions provide families with flexibility while maintaining our commitment to academic accountability.

After your child’s application has been submitted and received, the next step in the admissions process is providing academic records from their previous school.

Typically, this process takes 1–2 weeks. However, during peak enrollment periods—especially in August and September—it may take longer due to a higher volume of requests.

To avoid delays, we accept unofficial records from the most recent grading period to begin the review process. Official transcripts are still required and must be submitted by the start of the second semester.

Important: Unofficial records must be accurate. Inaccurate or incomplete records may result in your child needing to repeat coursework or complete additional assignments to meet academic requirements.

To help ensure a smooth enrollment experience, please visit EnrollHub on the NFC Academy website where you’ll find a step-by-step guide to the full enrollment process and tips to avoid common delays.

Age Guidelines for Enrollment

NFC Academy follows age guidelines aligned with traditional school entry standards to ensure students are placed appropriately for academic success.

• Kindergarten Enrollment: Students must be 5 years old by September 1 of the year they begin kindergarten.

• Senior Year Enrollment: Students may begin their senior year up to the age of 19 years and 9 months. All academic requirements must be completed by 20 years and 7 months.

These guidelines are designed to support consistent academic progression and to assist families in evaluating future transitions to traditional school settings, if applicable.

Exceptions:
Requests for exceptions to these age guidelines require written approval from NFC Academy. Parents must submit a formal request along with supporting academic documentation. Typically, exceptions may be granted when the age difference is within a few weeks or months of the standard—not in cases where the gap spans multiple years. In rare and unusual circumstances, other exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Accreditation and Transfer Credit Policy

NFC Academy is a fully accredited institution, recognized by the following accrediting bodies:

• Cognia/SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools)

• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools – Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools

• Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS)

As an accredited school, NFC Academy accepts transfer credits from other regionally accredited institutions without additional review. We also accept credits from schools accredited by:

• FACCS (Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools)

• ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International)

• Schools that are members of the National Council of Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)

Homeschool and Unaccredited Program Transfers

Students coming from unaccredited homeschool programs or other non-accredited educational settings may still be admitted. In these cases, NFC Academy conducts a curriculum review based on the documentation provided by the parent or school.

Credits from unaccredited programs are provisionally accepted and validated through the student’s successful completion of the following semester at NFC Academy.

Student Grade Placement

Grade placement at NFC Academy is determined by a review of the student’s academic records from their previous school, in consultation with the student’s parents or guardians. Required documentation includes:

• Report cards from the most recent school year

• Standardized test results

• A copy of the student’s birth certificate

In some cases where academic records are incomplete or unclear, students may be asked to complete a diagnostic assessment. This assessment helps ensure accurate placement within the curriculum, promoting academic success from the start.

 ​NFC Academy offers several convenient payment plans to meet the needs of families across all programs.

For students in Kindergarten through 12th grade, parents can choose from the following options:

• Monthly Payments – Spread evenly over 10 months

• Semi-Annual Payments – Two payments per year

• Annual Payment – One full payment at the start of the academic year

Families who select the semi-annual or annual payment options will receive a modest tuition discount as a benefit for paying in advance.

The Importance of Parent Involvement in Distance Learning

At NFC Academy, distance learning is a collaborative partnership between the student, parent, and Academy teachers. Regardless of the program you choose, parental involvement is essential to your child’s academic success.

NFC Academy Teacher-Led Online Program

In the NFC Academy Teacher-Led Online Program, our certified Academy teachers provide instruction, grade assignments, and support the student academically. However, the parent’s role remains vital.

Parents are still responsible for:

• Establishing and maintaining a structured learning schedule

• Monitoring the student’s progress and daily engagement

• Ensuring assignments are completed and submitted on time

• Facilitating communication with Academy teachers when needed

Even with professional teacher support, homeschool success depends on active parental involvement. The home environment is key in motivating and guiding students throughout their learning journe

Parent-Led Homeschool Programs

In our Parent-Led Online Programs, parents serve as the primary instructors. These programs include:

• Homeschool Edition (Grades 3–8)

• Homeschool Plus (Grades 9–12)

• Homeschool Basics (Grades 3–12)
  (Note: Homeschool Basics is not part of our accredited programs)

Parents in these programs will work closely with their child on a daily basis. While you’ll receive support from an NFC Academy Resource Assistant in the accredited programs  they are not involved in the day-to-day instruction. As the primary teacher, you will guide lessons, answer questions, and manage your child’s learning progress.

K–2nd Grade Book Program

Whether in the K–2 Digital Streaming or K–2 Print-Based Book Program, parents take on the full role of teacher. These early learning years require consistent daily, face-to-face engagement. While instruction time is age-appropriate and not all-day, it is intensive and vital for your child’s foundational development.

Parental Engagement = Student Success

At NFC Academy, we believe that parents are an irreplaceable part of the Learning Team. Your dedication, structure, and encouragement help create a strong foundation for your child’s growth—academically and beyond.

Choosing the Right Program for Your Child’s Needs

Selecting the right educational program for your child is an important decision, especially for students who may need extra support in certain areas. At NFC Academy, we offer a variety of distance learning options, but it is essential that parents carefully consider their child’s unique learning needs before making a choice.

Considerations for Students with ADD/ADHD or Learning Differences

Many children diagnosed with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can thrive in both traditional schools and distance learning environments like NFC Academy. However, it is important that students have the necessary reading and math skills to handle the curriculum independently.

Students who struggle with foundational academic skills may find it challenging to succeed in a distance learning program without direct, consistent support from a teacher. While NFC Academy provides structured, self-paced learning, it is designed for students who are independent learners and can manage their own assignments with minimal direct teaching.

Program Expectations and Limitations

NFC Academy’s programs are designed to work with motivated students who can work independently and manage their learning. We do not provide additional in-person or one-on-one teacher assistance for students who need constant supervision or direct instruction in certain subjects. As a result, parents of children with diagnosed learning challenges, such as ADD or ADHD, should carefully assess whether their child is prepared for the level of self-directed learning required.

If your child struggles with maintaining focus, completing assignments independently, or grasping certain core concepts without direct intervention, it may be beneficial to explore additional support resources or consider programs that provide more personalized attention from a teacher.

Parental Involvement is Key

Regardless of the chosen program, active parental involvement is critical. Parents of students with ADD, ADHD, or other learning needs may need to play an even more supportive role, helping their child stay organized, on track, and motivated throughout their studies. Setting up a structured learning environment at home can make a big difference in how well your child adapts to the demands of a distance learning program.

Before Enrolling, Ask Yourself:

• Does my child have the necessary foundational skills in reading and math to independently complete the curriculum?

• Can my child work independently for extended periods of time without direct, hands-on guidance?

• Am I prepared to provide daily support and structure to help my child stay on track?

• Does my child have the self-motivation and focus required for a distance learning program?

If you feel your child might benefit from more personalized attention or requires specific accommodations, we recommend reaching out to NFC Academy’s admissions team to discuss the best program option for your child’s individual needs.

Graduating from NFC Academy

Students enrolled at NFC Academy can complete their high school education and graduate with a diploma. Starting in 9th grade, each full-time student will have a personalized Path to Graduation, which outlines all required courses for graduation as well as elective options they can choose from.

Path to Graduation

• Personalized Plan: Each student’s Path to Graduation is tailored to their individual academic needs and interests, ensuring they are on track to meet NFC Academy’s graduation requirements.

• Course Flexibility: While students may take courses across different grade levels, they must complete all required coursework for graduation as outlined by NFC Academy.

• Ongoing Updates: The Path to Graduation is updated annually to reflect the student’s progress and any changes to their academic goals.

Graduation Eligibility

To be eligible for graduation from NFC Academy, seniors must meet the following criteria:

• Full-time Enrollment: Students must complete their entire senior year as a full-time student at NFC Academy.

• Completion of Graduation Requirements: Students must successfully complete all required courses, as detailed in their personalized Path to Graduation.

For detailed graduation requirements, please visit the High School Online tab on our website.

Annual Testing at NFC Academy

At NFC Academy, all students in grades K–11 are expected to take the Stanford Achievement Test each year. This test is an important part of our commitment to assessing student progress and meeting state requirements for annual testing.

Test Details

• Grade Levels:

  • Grades 3–11: Students will take the test online. A schedule will be provided to parents ahead of time for testing dates.

  • Grades K–2: Students will complete the test in booklet form, with instructions provided by NFC Academy.

• Test Timing: The test is typically administered in April each year.

• Test Results: After the test is scored by the testing company, parents will receive a copy of their child’s results.

Test Requirements and Recommendations

While the Stanford Achievement Test is recommended for all students, it is not mandatory. However, it meets the annual testing requirements for most states, so we highly encourage participation. We also recommend checking with your state to confirm any specific testing requirements.

Even if your state does not mandate standardized testing, we suggest that parents take advantage of this opportunity each spring. The test provides valuable insights into your child’s academic performance, allowing you to compare their progress with peers across the country. It also serves as an objective measure of how well your child is performing within the curriculum provided by NFC Academy.

Discounts at NFC Academy

At NFC Academy, we are committed to providing affordable, high-quality education for every family. We offer a variety of discounts to help reduce tuition costs for families enrolled in Online Programs for grades 3-12 and the K-2 Book Programs.

Available Discounts

• Family Discount – 10% off
  Available for families enrolling multiple students. This discount applies to Online Programs (grades 3–12) and the NFC Academy Teacher Program
• Full-Time Ministry Discount – 10% off
  Available to families whose primary income comes from full-time ministry work. This discount applies to Online Programs (grades 3–12) and the NFC Academy Teacher Program.
• Military Family Discount – 10% off
  Available to families of active-duty military members. We are grateful for your service and offer this discount for Online Programs (grades 3–12) and the NFC Academy Teacher Program.
• First Responders Discount – 10% off
  Available to families of first responders (police, fire, and emergency medical services). This discount applies to Online Programs (grades 3–12) and the NFC Academy Teacher Program.
• Teacher at Home – Homeschool Edition or Homeschool Plus Program Discount – 7% off
  Families who enroll their children in the Teacher at Home Online Homeschool Edition or the Homeschool Plus Program will receive a 7% tuition discount.
• K-2 Book Programs Teacher at Home Discount – 5% off
  Families who enroll their children in the K-2 Book Program as the teacher at home will receive a 5% tuition discount.

How to Apply Your Discount

These discounts are automatically applied during the enrollment process when the appropriate criteria are met. If you believe you qualify for one of these discounts, please contact our admissions team to ensure your eligibility and apply the discount to your tuition.