GED Programs: What can I do with a GED credential? GED graduates can do almost anything with a GED credential. You can apply to community college, a technical college or a university. You can register for training in a skill or craft. You can apply for jobs that require a high school diploma. Or you can apply to the military. People with a GED credential have earned Masters Degree, become doctors, run for public office and taught other students how to succeed in school. The GED credential is just the first step in your path. The rest is up to you!
History of the GED Programs: Created in 1942 to support World War II soldiers, the GED Tests offered thousands of veterans a chance at assimilating back into civilian life and an opportunity to attend a college or university. First accepted as a high school equivalency credential in New York State, credentials are now awarded in all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories and insular areas, Canada and internationally. The GED credential-whether called a diploma, certificate, or degree-is the most widely accepted and respected high school equivalency credential.
The GED Tests cannot be taken online. If you take a test on the Internet that claims to be the GED Tests, it is not a legitimate program. Some people may find out later that it is an alternative diploma or that it is a diploma mill. Do your research before spending any money. The GED Tests can only be taken at an official testing center. There are more than 3,400 testing centers worldwide. Did you know that more than 17 million people have earned their GED credential since the program began in 1942? Get started on your way to the GED credential. There are numerous GED Programs available. Congratulations on starting one of the most important journeys of your life—preparing to earn your GED credential! Millions of people like you have taken the GED Tests to get a better job, continue their education, or fulfill their personal aspirations. This website provides information that will help you understand the steps for taking the GED Tests.
Check Your School or Program for Accreditation: The GED Tests and GED credential have been administered by the Department of Education in each of the 50 U.S. states. Accreditation means that an educational program at a school meets certain levels of quality. Each state uses accrediting agencies to review educational programs and determine if the levels are met. Check your school’s accrediting agency and make sure it is on the list of authorized accrediting agencies posted by your state department of education.
Contact Colleges and Employers to Confirm They Will Accept Your Credential: The GED credential is accepted by 98% of colleges and universities and 96% of employers as equivalent to a high school diploma for admissions and hiring.Call the admissions office of college or university you want to attend and ask if they will accept your credential (certificate or diploma) for admissions. Online programs may test different skills and knowledge than what colleges and universities require.Contact the employer you want to work for and ask if they will accept your credential (certificate or diploma) for employment. Some test takers have used GED Programs to assist in their preparation.
Accommodations for Test-takers with Disabilities: All test-takers will have fair access to the tests. If you have a diagnosed learning disability, physical/chronic health disability, emotional/mental health disability, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder you can request accommodations. All requests are considered on an individual basis.