Table Comparison between GED and Traditional High School Diploma:

 

Diploma 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 post-secondary study
– Accepted in the U.S. and abroad
Disadvantages -May not be accepted abroad
-Test is more difficult than most expect		 Time to complete

A.   Eligibility

  • GED : Is designed for adults OVER THE AGE of 16 who haven’t earned a high school certificate and aren’t currently enrolled in high school.
  • GED : For current students who are considering leaving high school early.
  • GED TEST: Can also provide an alternative to graduation. 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 HAER Counselor before choosing to drop out and pursue the GED

 

B.   Passing GED 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.

  1. GED Subjects

Made up of four subject area tests, the GED tests include the following subjects:

  1. English
  2. Mathematical
  3. Science
  4. Social studies

D.  Finishing a Diploma

  1. For people who are no longer an appropriate age to enroll in high school, pursuing the GED credential is the best path.
  2. However, students who still have the opportunity to earn a high school diploma need to consider their options carefully.
  3. Most students only have ONE YEARS of ONLINE COURSE WORK remaining when they qualify to take the GED
  4. Although this timeframe is certainly longer than the COUPLE OF MONTHS required toprepare for the GED ONLINE TESTS, there are other advantages to earning a high school diploma.
  5. GED ONLINE CLASSES are necessary for preparing for the test.

 

E. GED Credential

Can be faster than finishing a high school diploma, it’s a good choice for individuals who are interested in accelerating their paths to the workforce.