A High School Diploma V. the GED
GED Meaning
The General Educational Development (GED) exam is an option for individuals who do not have their high school diploma and are either unable or choose not to complete a traditional high school education. The credential is accepted by many U.S. colleges and universities as proof the individual has high school-level academic skills.
GED vs. High School Diploma at a Glance
Diploma Type GED Traditional High School Diploma
Advantages – Faster to complete
– Ideal for those past high school age
– Quicker path to a vocation – Life experience
– Prepares students for postsecondary study
– Accepted in the U.S. and abroad
Disadvantages – May not be accepted abroad
– Test is more difficult than most expect – Time to complete
What Is the GED Test?
The GED test is designed for adults over the age of 16 who haven’t earned a high school diploma and aren’t currently enrolled in high school. For current students who are considering leaving high school early, the GED test can also provide an alternative to graduation.
However, unless extreme circumstances are forcing an individual out of high school, it typically makes more sense to earn a diploma. At a minimum, all students should need to meet with a school counselor before choosing to drop out and pursue the GED credential.
Passing the Test
Although the GED test represents less of a time commitment than a high school diploma, it’s not academically easier. The test is graded on an equivalency scale compared to current high school students. To pass, test takers must perform on a level comparable to or above 60% of high school seniors.
Made up of four subject area tests, the GED tests include the following subjects:
Reasoning through language arts (RLA)
Mathematical reasoning
Science
Social studies
In addition to multiple choice and short-form answers, the test also includes extended response question-and-answer formats. Individuals considering taking the GED test need to study. Adult education centers across the country offer test-prep courses, and students may also purchase study books or find free practice exams and questions online. Online GED courses are another option for preparing for the test. Preparation for the test can be done online, but the test must be taken at a GED testing center.
Finishing a Diploma
For people who are no longer an appropriate age to enroll in high school, pursuing the GED credential is the best path. However, students who still have the opportunity to earn a high school diploma need to consider their options carefully. Most students only have two to three years of coursework remaining when they qualify to take the GED exam. Although this timeframe is certainly longer than the couple of months required to prepare for the GED tests, there are other advantages to earning a high school diploma.
High school offers a variety of valuable life and educational experiences outside of the classroom, from hands-on study experiences to extracurricular clubs and activities. Furthermore, high school provides social development opportunities that will aid individuals through college and the workforce. Finally, although passing the GED test requires strong foundational academic skills, it doesn’t offer the advanced educational opportunities that are available in most high schools. The knowledge gained in these courses can help graduates be much more prepared for postsecondary study than a test ever could.
Using the Credential vs. Using the Diploma
Earning a high school diploma may more likely prepare students for the academic challenges of college. However, obtaining the GED credential doesn’t mean that postsecondary education is no longer an option. According to the American Council on Education (ACE), the national organization that oversees the GED exam, about 97% of U.S. and Canadian colleges and universities accept the GED credential in place of a high school diploma.
On the other hand, students considering studying abroad may find that fewer international universities are willing to accept the credential. Students interested in enrolling at postsecondary institutions may want to contact the admissions departments to determine whether or not a high school diploma is required for matriculation.
Earning a GED credential is ideal for individuals who are older than high school age or those who need to finish their high school level education quickly. However, there are significant advantages to completing a traditional high school education.
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