BJU Press

by BJU Press (website )

Comprehensive K-12 Christian curriculum with rigorous academics and biblical worldview

Best Fit For

Families wanting rigorous, college-prep academics with strong Biblical integration. Works well for those who prefer either video-based learning or traditional textbooks. Good for families who value structure and comprehensive scope.

Not Recommended For

Budget-conscious families (expensive with limited returns). Those seeking secular or multi-faith content. Families who prefer very flexible, eclectic approaches may find it too structured.

What Reviewers Say

BJU Press receives consistently strong reviews for academic rigor and comprehensive K-12 coverage. Cathy Duffy gives multiple 'Top Pick' recommendations, particularly for elementary science. Recent parent reviews (2023-2024) praise engaging video teachers, flexible pacing, and the Homeschool Hub organizational platform. Parents value the strong Biblical worldview and college-prep academics. Common concerns include cost (with a short return policy) and initial complexity with many components to manage.

How It Works

A typical week involves daily sessions where students either follow a scripted teacher's manual with their parent or watch 15-30 minute video lessons led by professional instructors. After the instruction, students complete corresponding pages in their colorful worktexts to practice the new concepts, while parents use the 'Homeschool Hub' digital platform to track assignments, grades, and schedules. A full day of core subjects usually takes three to five hours depending on grade level, with the curriculum providing all the necessary structure, including pre-made tests and grading keys. Parents act as facilitators who check for understanding and provide one-on-one support, while the curriculum handles the heavy lifting of lesson planning.

Switching to This?

BJU Press does not offer a free diagnostic placement test, but they are a major provider of standardized testing services, which many families use to determine grade-level readiness. Most families find that BJU aligns with traditional grade levels, though their math and science courses are academically rigorous; if your child is coming from a 'gentle' or mastery-based program, you may want to review their scope and sequence to ensure no gaps exist. Families can start mid-year, but because the video-led courses are designed for a strict 180-day cycle, the digital calendar tools are essential for adjusting the schedule. When switching from a program like Abeka, parents should expect a shift away from pure rote memorization toward more conceptual 'why' questions and critical thinking exercises.

Curriculum Details

Price
$10 - $899

Individual subjects start around $10. Full video course grade kits $699-759. Print textbook kits range widely. Payment plans available for orders $350+ (15% down, 9 monthly payments, $50 fee). Homeschool Hub platform is free.

Grades
PRE-K - 12
Available As
Print Digital Internet required
Coverage
All subjects

Pacing
Some flexibility
Parent Time
30-90 min/day
Parent Involvement
Minimal
Student Independence
Semi-independent

Academic Level
Above grade level
Worldview
Christian
Engaging for Reluctant Learners
Yes

Parent Role:

Choose between video courses (minimal parent involvement) or parent-led textbooks (daily teaching required). Homeschool Hub platform helps organize daily work and track progress.

Videos

In-Depth BJU Press Homeschool Curriculum Review and Guide 😎

by How to Homeschool

Reviews We Consulted

Identifies the science series as a top choice for a traditional textbook approach that successfully integrates hands-on activities for various learning styles. It emphasizes scientific thinking starting in first grade.

"Scientific thinking is heavily stressed, with the scientific method being introduced in first grade... recognizing that children have different learning styles, they have incorporated activities to suit different learners."

Highlights the Math program's structured Work Text and Activity Book combo, which eliminates the need for parents to hunt for supplemental practice problems.

"I teach the lesson using the Work Text which gives me plenty of practice problems... I’ve worked in math curricula before where I’m constantly having to search out extra practice to make sure she understands, and I just never feel that way with BJU."

Notes that the curriculum is ideal for advanced learners who prefer a "straight to the point" classroom style over gentler methods. It offers the rigor needed to keep easily distracted students focused.

"He needs challenging, straight to the point, work. It’s what keeps him focused and it seems to be the best way he learns... No matter what I personally want, his needs come first. So, I bit the bullet and purchased the entire kit."

Praises the academically rigorous, colorful presentation and strong biblical worldview integration but warns that parent-led versions require high teacher involvement.

"Throughout BJU Press’s curriculum, student material is colorful and well presented. It also has strong Biblical teaching incorporated in a very effective manner, sometimes identified explicitly as Biblical Worldview Shaping."

Appreciates the "hands-off" nature of the video-based lessons for busy parents, describing the curriculum as a perfect balance between gentle and "soul-crushingly" rigorous.

"BJU Press is neither [fluffy nor soul-crushing]. It’s challenging without being overwhelming. Your kids will learn—and they won’t hate you (or long division) in the process. You don’t have to pick between gentle or rigorous. BJU Press lands squarely in the middle."

Recommends this as a more media-rich and engaging alternative to Abeka, especially for students who struggle with long video sessions. It offers shorter assignments that maintain academic comprehensiveness.

"For kids who still want to be challenged, but have a hard time staying in one place for 6 hours a day watching videos, BJU is a better fit. The assignments are shorter, but the material is still comprehensive. BJU is more media rich, which my daughter craved."

Highly recommends the high school Consumer Math course for its practical focus on budgeting and its engaging video instructor, though the subject matter can be dry.

"Consumer Math, from BJU Press, exceeded my expectations for a consumer math course and my daughter, who is currently finishing up the course, has really enjoyed it and found it extremely insightful and practical."

Updated: March 2026 by Claude

How This Compares

When compared to Abeka, BJU Press is often preferred by parents who want a focus on critical thinking and conceptual understanding rather than the heavy rote memorization and repetitive drills Abeka is known for. Against Master Books, BJU is significantly more academically demanding and time-intensive, making it a better fit for families prioritizing college prep over a 'gentle' or lifestyle-focused education. Compared to SchoolhouseTeachers.com, which offers a vast library of elective-style resources for one price, BJU provides a more rigid, cohesive K-12 path that ensures a student never misses a core academic requirement.

Getting Started

Try It Free

Free supplemental video lessons and learning tools · afterschoolhelp.com

This site provides concept-specific video instruction and practice tools that allow parents to evaluate the BJU Press teaching style for free.

Find Your Level

Elementary math placement tests · blog.bjupress.com

Provides downloadable assessments to help parents determine the correct grade level for students starting the math curriculum.

See What It Looks Like

Getting Started guide for the Academy of Home Education · bjupresshomeschool.com

Offers a step-by-step roadmap and checklist for families choosing the BJU Press accredited homeschool pathway.

Online video course logistics and FAQs · bjupresshomeschool.com

Detailed answers regarding how the online distance learning program works, including technical requirements and student scheduling.

Get Support

Local "HomeWorks" consultant locator · homeworksbyprecept.com

Connects parents with experienced BJU Press mentors for free one-on-one curriculum coaching and local product previews.

Purchase

Academy of Home Education enrollment · bjupresshomeschool.com

The official portal for enrolling in the accredited program, which includes curriculum access, record-keeping, and official transcripts.