What is a highschool GED?

The High School GED, also known as the General Educational Development program, is a set of four subject tests that measure knowledge and skills in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The High School GED program is designed for individuals who did not complete their high school education and want to earn a high school equivalency credential. The GED program is recognized and accepted by colleges, universities, and employers as the equivalent of a high school diploma.

The GED tests are divided into four subject areas: Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. The tests are designed to measure the skills and knowledge that are typically acquired during four years of high school. The GED program is offered in both paper-based and computer-based formats.

Obtaining a High School GED can open many doors for individuals who did not finish high school, and it’s a way to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and readiness for college, career, and the workforce. In this article, we will provide more information about the High School GED program, including eligibility, requirements, and the steps to obtain it.

Eligibility and Requirements for the High School GED

1. Age: To be eligible to take the GED test, you must be at least 17 years old. However, in some states, you may be able to take the test at 16 with a parent/guardian permission.
2. Residency: You must be a resident of the state in which you plan to take the GED test.
3. Education: You must not have a high school diploma or have withdrawn from high school before completing the requirements for graduation.
4. ID: You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID.
5. GED Test fee: You must pay a fee to take the GED test. The fee varies by state, and some states may offer reduced fees or waivers for eligible individuals.
6. Pre-test: Some states require you to take an official practice test before taking the GED test.

It’s important to note that these requirements and eligibilities may vary depending on the state where you take the test, so you should check with the official GED testing service in your state or local testing center for specific details.

In addition, it’s also important to note that in order to take the GED test, you must not have a high school diploma or have withdrawn from high school before completing the requirements for graduation. The GED test is designed for individuals who did not complete their high school education and want to earn a high school equivalency credential.

Differences between High School Diploma and High School GED

1. Completion: A high school diploma is earned by completing the required coursework and passing the necessary exams, while a GED is earned by passing a series of four subject tests that measure knowledge and skills in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
2. Recognition: A high school diploma is issued by a high school, and is typically recognized by employers, colleges, and universities as the equivalent of a high school education. A GED is issued by the American Council on Education and is also recognized by employers, colleges, and universities as the equivalent of a high school diploma.
3. Flexibility: A high school diploma may be obtained through traditional or online high schools, while a GED can be earned through a self-study approach, traditional classroom setting, or online programs. This gives GED test-takers more flexibility in terms of how they want to study and when they want to take the test.
4. Time: A high school diploma usually takes four years to obtain, while the GED program can be completed within 2-6 months, depending on the individual’s learning pace, time availability, and the format of the program.

In summary, while both a high school diploma and a GED demonstrate that an individual has completed high school level coursework, there are some differences in how they are earned and the time frame required. Both options are widely recognized and accepted by employers, colleges and universities.

Steps to Obtain a High School GED

1. Determine eligibility: Make sure you meet the age, residency, education, and ID requirements to take the GED test.
2. Research testing centers: Find a GED testing center near you, or find information on online GED testing options.
3. Register for the test: Register for the GED test through the official GED testing service or through a local testing center.
4. Prepare for the test: Use GED study materials, such as textbooks, study guides, and online tutorials to prepare for the test. Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format of the GED test and to identify areas where you need improvement.
5. Take the test: Show up at the testing center on the day of the test with a valid government-issued photo ID and the required test fee.
6. Receive scores: Scores will be available within 3 hours after you finish taking the test, you can access your score online by creating an account with the GED testing service and providing the required information such as your personal information and test date.
7. Get your diploma: Once you pass the GED test, you will receive a GED diploma, which is recognized as the equivalent of a high school diploma by employers, colleges and universities.

It’s important to note that the steps may vary depending on the state where you take the test, so you should check with the official GED testing service in your state or local testing center for specific details.