Can You Go to College with a GED?

Is a GED truly equivalent to a high school diploma? Find out the answer to this question and more when comes to applying to college.

Can You Go to College with a GED?
Yuhan Du

If you haven’t graduated from high school, but you still want to pursue a college education, you may be wondering if it is possible to attend college with a GED (General Education Development) certificate. The short answer is yes: You can go to college with a GED. That being said, there are certain requirements and limitations you should be aware of before making your decision.

In this BrokeScholar article, we're going to discuss the issues of can you go to college with a GED. We’ll also get into the question of how truly equivalent a GED is to a high school diploma in terms of applying to college. Read on to find out more about it.

What is a GED?

A GED is a high school equivalency credential that is recognized in all 50 states in the United States. It is designed for individuals who did not graduate from high school, but who have the same level of knowledge and skills as someone who did. The GED consists of four subjects: math, science, social studies, and language arts. To earn a GED, you must pass a test that covers these subjects.

Is a GED Equivalent to a High School Diploma?

While a GED is considered equivalent to a high school diploma, there are some differences between the two. For example, a high school diploma is awarded by a school after a student has completed all of the required coursework and met all of the graduation requirements. A GED, on the other hand, is earned by passing a test that covers the same material as a high school education.

In terms of college admissions, most colleges and universities consider a GED equivalent to a high school diploma. However, some colleges and universities may have different admission requirements for GED holders, so it is important to check with each school to see what their specific policies are.

Advantages of Getting a GED

There are many advantages to getting a GED. First and foremost, a GED allows you to pursue a college education, which can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries. Additionally, getting a GED can help boost your self-esteem and sense of accomplishment, especially if you did not finish high school for personal reasons.

Another advantage of getting a GED is that it can help you qualify for certain jobs and career paths. Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions, and a GED can satisfy this requirement.

Disadvantages of Getting a GED

While there are many advantages to getting a GED, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. For example, some people may view a GED as inferior to a high school diploma, even though they are considered equivalent in the eyes of most colleges and universities.

Additionally, some colleges and universities may have different admission requirements for GED holders. For example, some schools may require GED holders to take additional standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, while others may require GED holders to complete remedial coursework before being admitted.

Another potential disadvantage of getting a GED is that it may be more difficult to qualify for certain scholarships and financial aid programs. Some scholarships and financial aid programs require applicants to have a high school diploma, so GED holders may not be eligible.

Can You Get into College with a GED?

As already mentioned: Yes, you can get into college with a GED. However, the admission requirements may vary depending on the college or university you are applying to. In general, most colleges and universities consider a GED equivalent to a high school diploma, but they may have additional requirements for GED holders.

Some colleges and universities, for example, may require GED holders to take additional standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, to demonstrate their readiness for college-level coursework. Additionally, some schools may require GED holders to complete remedial coursework before being admitted.

It is important to check with each college or university you are interested in applying to in order to understand their specific admission requirements for GED holders. This information can typically be found on the school’s website or by contacting the admissions office directly.

In addition to meeting the admission requirements, GED holders should also consider other factors when applying to college. For example, they should research the academic programs and majors offered at each school to ensure they align with their career goals and interests. This can also help your argument for wanting to attend a certain college during the interview process.

Another factor to consider is the cost of attending college. GED holders may be eligible for financial aid, scholarships, and grants to help offset the cost of tuition and other expenses. It is important to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible to determine eligibility for financial aid.

Lastly, GED holders should also consider their own academic readiness for college-level coursework. While the GED demonstrates a certain level of knowledge and skills, it may not fully prepare a student for the rigor of college coursework. GED holders may need to consider taking additional courses or seeking academic support to ensure their success in college.

Tips for Success as a GED Holder in College

If you have earned a GED and plan to attend college, there are several things you can do to ensure your success. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Seek academic support: Many colleges and universities offer academic support services, such as tutoring and study groups, to help students succeed in their coursework. Take advantage of these resources to ensure your success.

  • Build relationships with professors: Building relationships with professors can be beneficial for GED holders, as they can provide guidance and support throughout your college journey.

  • Take advantage of opportunities: Participate in extracurricular activities, internships, and other opportunities that can help you gain experience and build your resume.

  • Develop good study habits: Developing good study habits, such as setting aside dedicated study time and breaking down assignments into manageable tasks, can help you succeed in college.

  • Stay motivated: College can be challenging, but staying motivated and focused on your goals can help you succeed. Remember why you decided to pursue a college education in the first place and keep that motivation in mind as you navigate your coursework.

The Bottom Line on Can You Go to College With a GED

In the end, earning a GED does not have to be a barrier to attending college. While there may be some additional requirements and limitations for GED holders, most colleges and universities consider a GED equivalent to a high school diploma. With proper preparation and support, GED holders can successfully navigate the college admissions process and thrive in college.

Andrew DePietro

Author: Andrew DePietro

Senior Researcher, and Content Strategist

Andrew DePietro is a finance writer covering topics such as entrepreneurship, investing, real estate and college for BrokeScholar, Forbes, CreditKarma, and more.