How to go to college with a GED?

Earning a GED (General Educational Development) certificate is a great accomplishment that can open doors to a wide range of opportunities, including the ability to pursue higher education. Many colleges and universities accept applicants who have earned a GED in lieu of a traditional high school diploma.

If you are considering going to college with a GED, it is important to understand the college admission requirements and the process for applying. This article will provide an overview of what you need to know to successfully pursue higher education with a GED. We’ll cover how to research admission requirements, explore college options, submit your GED test scores to colleges, and tips for applying to college as a GED holder. Additionally, we’ll touch on how to pay for college as a GED holder.

Research College Admission Requirements

When it comes to pursuing higher education with a GED, it is important to research college admission requirements thoroughly. Every college or university may have slightly different admission criteria, but most will require the following:

1. GED Scores: Most colleges and universities will require GED scores to be submitted as part of the application process. Check with each college to determine how to submit your scores. You can usually request an official copy of your GED scores directly from the GED Testing Service website.
2. College Entrance Exams: Many colleges and universities require students to take either the SAT or ACT, so be sure to check the admission requirements for the colleges you are interested in attending. Keep in mind that some colleges may waive this requirement for GED holders.
3. Transcripts: Some colleges may require transcripts from any high schools you attended prior to earning your GED. If you did not attend high school, you can often submit a GED transcript in place of a high school transcript.
4. Application Materials: In addition to the items listed above, colleges may require other application materials such as essays, recommendation letters, and a completed application form. Be sure to check each college’s website for a complete list of admission requirements.

Once you have researched admission requirements, you can start exploring college options and identifying which schools might be a good fit for you.

Consider Your College Options

When considering going to college with a GED, it’s important to do your research and find the right college or university for you. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Accreditation: Make sure that the college or university you are considering is accredited by a reputable accrediting agency. This ensures that the institution meets certain academic standards and that your degree will be recognized by other colleges and employers.
2. Transferability of credits: If you plan on transferring to another college or university in the future, make sure that the credits you earn at your current institution will transfer. Some colleges have agreements with other schools that make it easier to transfer credits, so be sure to check.
3. Cost: College can be expensive, so consider the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses. Look for financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.
4. Programs and majors: Consider the programs and majors that are offered at the college or university. Make sure they have programs that interest you and align with your career goals.
5. Campus culture and support services: Visit the campus and talk to current students and faculty to get a sense of the campus culture and available support services. Look for resources such as tutoring, academic advising, and career services to help you succeed in college.

Submitting Your GED Test Scores to Colleges

Submitting Your GED test scores is a crucial step in applying to colleges. You should request that your official GED transcript be sent to the colleges you are interested in attending. This can usually be done online through the GED Testing Service website.

It’s important to note that some colleges may have additional admission requirements beyond your GED test scores, such as letters of recommendation or personal statements. Be sure to research the admission requirements of each college you are interested in attending to ensure that you meet all of the necessary criteria.

Additionally, some colleges may have specific programs or resources available for GED holders, such as support services or scholarships. It’s worth exploring these options to see if they may be beneficial to you.

Overall, with careful planning and research, it is possible to successfully apply to college with a GED.

Tips for Applying to College with a GED

If you’re applying to college with a GED instead of a high school diploma, here are some tips to help you through the process:

1. Research college admission requirements: Start by researching the admission requirements for the colleges you’re interested in attending. Each college has its own set of requirements, so make sure you know what they are before you apply.
2. Take college entrance exams: Many colleges require college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT. Check the admission requirements for the colleges you’re interested in to see if they require these exams.
3. Highlight your strengths: When applying to college, focus on your strengths and highlight the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Use your personal statement to explain why you pursued a GED and how it has prepared you for college.
4. Consider community college: If you’re worried about your chances of getting into a four-year college, consider starting at a community college. Community colleges often have lower admission requirements and can provide a great foundation for transferring to a four-year college later on.
5. Apply for financial aid: Don’t let the cost of college deter you from pursuing your education. Apply for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, to help cover the costs of tuition and other expenses.
6. Seek out support services: Many colleges offer support services for students who may need extra help adjusting to college life. Take advantage of these services, including tutoring, counseling, and career counseling, to help you succeed in college.

Paying for College as a GED Holder

If you have earned your GED and are planning to attend college, there are many ways to pay for your education. Here are some options to consider:

1. Apply for Financial Aid: Financial aid is a great option for many students, including those with a GED. To apply for federal financial aid, you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
2. Scholarships: Many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for students who have earned their GED. In addition, there are many private organizations that offer scholarships for students with a GED.
3. Grants: Grants are another form of financial aid that you don’t have to pay back. Many federal and state grants are available to students with a GED.
4. Work-Study: Work-study programs provide students with part-time employment while they attend college. This is a great way to earn money to help pay for your education.
5. Military Benefits: If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, you may be eligible for military education benefits. These benefits can include tuition assistance and the GI Bill.
6. Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer tuition assistance programs to their employees. If you’re currently employed, check with your employer to see if they offer this benefit.
7. Personal Savings: Finally, if you have personal savings or are able to save money before attending college, this is another option to consider.

Overall, there are many ways to pay for college as a GED holder. It’s important to explore all of your options and to find the ones that work best for you.