The right questions lead to the right decision. Here’s what every North Carolina family should ask before enrolling their child in a virtual academy — and how STARS Virtual Academy answers each one.

Questions to ask before enrolling in a virtual academy in NC are the starting point for any family doing this seriously. Choosing a virtual academy is a significant decision, and not all virtual schools are created equal. This guide gives families a clear framework for evaluating their options — and shows exactly how STARS Virtual Academy answers each question.

Questions About Accreditation and Academic Standards

Is this school accredited?

Accreditation matters for transcripts, academic records, and future school transitions. STARS Virtual Academy is a North Carolina public charter school operating under state authorization — fully accredited and recognized by the state.

Does it follow North Carolina state curriculum standards?

Any public school in NC must follow the NC Standard Course of Study. SVA does. Students at SVA are held to the same academic standards as students in traditional public schools across the state.

Will my child receive official transcripts?

Yes. SVA maintains official academic records and transcripts for every enrolled student, just like any other public school.

Questions About Teachers and Instruction

Are teachers certified?

This is one of the most important questions to ask. Some online programs use pre-recorded content or uncertified instructors. SVA employs certified, state-licensed teachers who deliver live instruction and maintain direct relationships with students.

How often will my child interact with a teacher?

At SVA, students participate in live instruction sessions, receive regular one-on-one check-ins, and can reach teachers directly by message and phone. Teacher interaction is consistent and built into the program structure, not optional.

How does the school communicate with parents?

SVA communicates directly with families through teacher check-ins, progress reports, and direct access to the teachers working with their child. Parents are not left in the dark about how their child is progressing.

Questions About Cost

Is there tuition?

No. SVA is a tuition-free public charter school. There is no tuition, no enrollment fee, and no monthly cost. See our full breakdown of is STARS Charter School tuition-free for details.

Are there hidden fees?

No. The only practical costs for SVA families are internet access and a device during the first year. SVA provides a free Dell laptop after completing year one.

Does the school provide technology?

Yes. Every student who completes their first year at SVA receives a free Dell laptop.

Questions About Flexibility and Schedule

Is there a fixed daily schedule?

No. SVA’s coursework is completed within flexible daily time windows rather than fixed class hours. Students are not required to be online at a specific time.

Can my child work at their own pace?

Yes. SVA’s self-paced structure allows students to move through material at a rate that works for them, within the expectations of the academic year.

Can my child do schoolwork while traveling?

Yes. As long as there is an internet connection, SVA coursework can be completed from anywhere in North Carolina.

Questions About Fit and Enrollment

What grades does the school serve?

SVA serves students in grades 4–9 across North Carolina.

How many students are enrolled?

SVA is currently limited to 50 students for next year. This small enrollment is a feature, not a limitation — it means every student receives significant individual teacher attention.

Is there an application fee?

No. There is no cost to apply.

How do I enroll?

See our complete step-by-step guide to how enrollment works at STARS Charter School.

SVA answers every one of these questions clearly. Tuition-free. Certified teachers. Accredited. Flexible. Limited enrollment. Statewide NC. Apply at starscharter.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I ask before enrolling my child in a virtual academy in NC?

Ask about accreditation, teacher certification, cost, flexibility, enrollment size, and how the school communicates with parents. This guide covers all of these in detail.

Is STARS Virtual Academy accredited?

Yes. SVA is a state-authorized North Carolina public charter school following the NC Standard Course of Study.

Is SVA free?

Yes. No tuition, no fees, no hidden costs.

How do I know if SVA is the right fit for my child?

See our guide to signs your child might thrive in online school in NC for a detailed look at who SVA is built for.

How do I start the enrollment process?

Visit starscharter.org or see our guide to how enrollment works at STARS Charter School.

The Bottom Line

The right questions lead to the right decision. Before enrolling your child in any virtual academy in NC, ask about accreditation, teacher certification, cost, flexibility, and enrollment size. STARS Virtual Academy answers every one of these questions with clarity — because a family making a confident, informed decision is exactly what SVA is built for.

Ready to apply? Contact STARS Virtual Academy at starscharter.org. Enrollment is limited to 50 students — apply early.