---
title: What's the Hype about OFL? Questions & Misconceptions
description: Discover the truth about OFL's flexible, accredited, tuition-free education model and why it's a trusted choice for thousands of California families.
image: https://blog.oflschools.org/hubfs/OFL_Email%20Footer%20Image.jpg
---

![](https://blog.oflschools.org/hubfs/OFL_Email%20Footer%20Image.jpg)

#### **Addressing Common Questions and Misunderstandings About Our School Model**

We understand—it’s not always easy to navigate alternative education models. That’s why we’re here to clarify what OFL is, what it’s not, and why so many students and families trust us with their education.

We understand—it’s not always easy to navigate alternative education models. That’s why we’re here to clarify what OFL is, what it’s not, and why so many students and families trust us with their education.

**First Things First: Yes, It’s a Real School**

 

| ### **❌** | ### **OFL is not a real school** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **Not true!** OFL is a **tuition-free, **[**accredited **](https://oflschools.org/about-our-charter-school/accreditation/)**public charter school** serving students in grades 9–12 (up to age 21). Accredited means we are officially recognized by the state and meet academic requirements. We offer the same diploma you’d earn at any traditional high school. This means these credits also recognized by state colleges and universities (some of our students get accepted to attend 4-year universities like UCs, CalState Universities, and more!)  |

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf31Ae07MBAtJgN91DzQyE7Xo0Ndrbn2GNUvzKEolc1rDjqX__FgZhc8HfkB45jpR7Ke_YR4XQJ--N047OZPS4S5cLA_H4E0iyJkcAmBVfL4mUPQ1H7xeXeVDeiw39qczdto0xOQw?key=J74bhvolM8EwtqseM-FE9g)

We are proud to be fully accredited by [**Cognia**](https://www.cognia.org/), a globally recognized organization that ensures high standards in education across more than 85 countries. This means our programs meet rigorous academic requirements and are part of a global network of schools committed to continuous improvement.![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdAr4URCb6uS2jCJPg9jk935cZfwpPSeustBjnIaRfQ3NTNmwCxqEkozZStSersZS2j88YQFhv13bANa7DSw7NahgLSAdGUKqVKSOgyOUs59i41TL9iFdQ1Dll039XP1rinfKR6nA?key=J74bhvolM8EwtqseM-FE9g)

We’re also accredited by the [**Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)**](https://www.acswasc.org/about/acs-wasc-overview/) for grades 7–12, and our curriculum meets California state graduation requirements and Common Core standards.

**For student-athletes**, OFY is NCAA-approved, which means student-athletes can stay on track for graduation *and* remain eligible for college sports programs and scholarships.![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeyjml2XrwVb0TdHbV6cs3PoYrmqZ_5nyjMz4UnSUC23stbUSiXYRox2xbFJEFjGTmmWO_KwMEwgm8VBcpcuFpGZS6Mr4B-X6uyZ9ld0nc2mz20dD6LjWSFCcCnilCQdTWY1C95cg?key=J74bhvolM8EwtqseM-FE9g)

In short: **Yes, OFL is a real school—accredited, respected, and built to help students succeed.**

---

 

## **Common Misconceptions About OFL**

We believe in the power of clear communication and want to set the facts straight. Here are some common misconceptions and myths, and we’re highlighting the facts as well as sharing what really makes OFL different—so you can make an informed decision that works for you or your student.

 

| ### **❌** | ### **OFL is only for students who are behind.** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **OFL supports a wide range of students!** While many students come to OFL to catch up on credits, we also serve those who want to graduate early, balance school with work or family responsibilities, or simply prefer a calmer, more individualized setting to learn and thrive. |

| ### **❌** | ### **OFL is just an online school.** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **OFL offers flexible learning options!** We combine independent, self-paced learning with in-person support from teachers who know students by name. While some students choose a fully online option, others attend in person—or do a bit of both. We let students and families decide what works best. |

| ### **❌** | ### **You don’t earn a real high school diploma.** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **OFL students graduate with a recognized, accredited diploma.** Your diploma from OFL is the same one you’d earn at a traditional public school—and it’s backed by the [California Department of Education](https://www.cde.ca.gov/SchoolDirectory/districtschool?allSearch=options+for+youth&multif=&simpleSearch=Y&sax=true). |

 

| ### **❌** | ### **OFL credits don’t count toward college.** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **OFL credits are widely accepted by colleges. **Our WASC-accredited coursework is recognized by universities, community colleges, and career programs. OFL students have gone on to attend UCs, CSUs, and schools nationwide. |

| ### **❌** | ### **It costs money to attend OFL.** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **OFL is 100% tuition-free. **There are no enrollment fees, no textbook costs, and no hidden charges—even our experiential learning field trips are free!  As a public charter school, everything is funded by the state. |

 

| ### **❌** | ### **OFL is just homeschooling with packets.** |
| --- | --- |
| ✅ | **OFL is not a homeschool.***** ***We offer structured support, certified teachers, and access to in-person learning centers. Students can work independently but are never on their own—they have guidance, accountability, and encouragement every step of the way. |

## **So… What *****Is***** the Hype About OFL?**

OFL is a new way to do high school—we’re the** trusted alternative educational choice** by thousands of families across the state and serving California for over 25 years.

In today’s evolving educational landscape, students need learning options that adapt to their unique needs. OFL offers a flexible, student-centered approach designed to meet learners where they are and guide them toward academic success.

Ready to learn more or enroll? Call us at (888) 207-1119 or visit[ oflschools.org](https://oflschools.org/).

 

### Get Started at OFL Today!

 

# Ready to Learn More?

![jackie arteaga icon](https://blog.oflschools.org/hs-fs/hubfs/jackie%20arteaga%20icon.png?width=621&height=207&name=jackie%20arteaga%20icon.png)

### Talk to Jackie, Enrollment Specialist

 Call (888) 207-1119

![enroll button ofl](https://blog.oflschools.org/hs-fs/hubfs/enroll%20button%20ofl.png?width=621&height=207&name=enroll%20button%20ofl.png)

### Get Started with Enrollment

[ Enroll Today! ](http://oflschools.org/enroll?utm_source=organic-social&utm_medium=hubspot&utm_campaign=ofl-made-for-you-25-26&utm_content=blog-whats-the-hype-about-ofl)

 

## Related Articles

[![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdlWvoXHfQOdjpE83ROTpOT7CMX4kGSusSRwiATJ-OWScgTOCWKlAsPZjYCXet46BCeU-TZmRN98GizlAw3ZuIHG5ATDV0DQ0a3QR0A_hSBAaRzhYE0DJFDPcIq5RFgyz0UDv6JFQ?key=1oHsVcQ4tCj8dlOxOTcBNd8a) ](https://blog.oflschools.org/zayne-story-of-growth-advocacy-and-success-at-ofl)

### [Finding My Place: Zayne’s Story of Growth, Advocacy, and Success at OFL](https://blog.oflschools.org/zayne-story-of-growth-advocacy-and-success-at-ofl)

*Zayne, standing confidently at the podium, addressed the graduating class of 2024 with a heartfelt and inspiring speech.*

![Opportunities for Learning](https://blog.oflschools.org/hs-fs/hubfs/OFL-Logo-No-Text-(color)-1.png?width=45&name=OFL-Logo-No-Text-(color)-1.png) 

[Opportunities for Learning](https://blog.oflschools.org/author/opportunities-for-learning) 

[Read More](https://blog.oflschools.org/zayne-story-of-growth-advocacy-and-success-at-ofl)

[![](https://blog.oflschools.org/hubfs/OFL%20Capo/IMG_9480.jpg) ](https://blog.oflschools.org/a-school-made-for-you-why-ofl-works-for-students-who-need-something-more)

### [A School Made for You: Why OFL Works for Students Who Need Something More](https://blog.oflschools.org/a-school-made-for-you-why-ofl-works-for-students-who-need-something-more)

**Everyone should have the power to choose their own path-their own educational choice.**

![Opportunities for Learning](https://blog.oflschools.org/hs-fs/hubfs/OFL-Logo-No-Text-(color)-1.png?width=45&name=OFL-Logo-No-Text-(color)-1.png) 

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[Read More](https://blog.oflschools.org/a-school-made-for-you-why-ofl-works-for-students-who-need-something-more)

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