GED vs. Adult High School Diploma: Which Path Opens More Doors to College?
If you’re an adult looking to attend college but didn’t finish high school, you’re likely weighing two options: earning a GED (General Educational Development) credential or pursuing an adult high school diploma. Both pathways can lead to higher education, but they differ in structure, time commitment, and how colleges view them. Let’s explore the pros, cons, and key considerations to help you make an informed choice.
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What’s the Difference?
First, let’s clarify what each option entails:
– GED: A high school equivalency exam covering four subjects (math, science, social studies, and language arts). Passing the test certifies skills at a high school graduate level.
– Adult High School Diploma: A program that allows adults to complete missing credits or coursework required for a traditional high school diploma, often through adult education centers or online schools.
While both credentials qualify you for college, their approaches are distinct. The GED is a test-based shortcut, while the diploma is a coursework-based completion of high school requirements.
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Time and Flexibility
GED: If you’re in a hurry, the GED is often faster. Many adults prepare for the exams in weeks or months, depending on their existing knowledge. Study materials are widely available online, and you can take the tests at your own pace.
Adult Diploma: This route mimics a traditional high school timeline. Completing missing credits might take 6 months to 2 years, especially if you need to retake classes. However, adult programs often offer flexible schedules (nights, weekends, or self-paced online courses).
Who Benefits?
– Choose the GED if you’re confident in your academic skills and want speed.
– Opt for the diploma if you prefer structured learning or need to strengthen foundational knowledge.
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College Acceptance and Perception
Most U.S. colleges accept both credentials, but nuances exist:
– GED Holders: Colleges treat the GED as equivalent to a diploma, but some admissions officers may view it as a “Plan B.” Competitive programs (e.g., Ivy League schools) might scrutinize GED applicants more closely, though strong SAT/ACT scores or work experience can offset this.
– Diploma Holders: A traditional or adult high school diploma may feel more familiar to admissions committees, especially if paired with transcripts showing completed coursework. This can be advantageous for scholarships or programs requiring specific prerequisites (e.g., lab sciences).
Key Tip: Check your target college’s admission requirements. Some community colleges prioritize open enrollment for GED graduates, while universities may prefer diploma holders with aligned academic backgrounds.
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Skill Development and Readiness
Your choice impacts how prepared you’ll feel for college-level work:
– GED: Focuses on broad, practical knowledge. While it confirms competency, critics argue it doesn’t build the same critical thinking or study habits as a multi-year diploma program.
– Adult Diploma: Offers a deeper dive into subjects like literature, advanced math, or sciences. This structured learning can ease the transition to college, particularly in writing-intensive or STEM fields.
For example, if you struggled with algebra in high school, retaking math classes for a diploma could better prepare you for college calculus than cramming for the GED’s math section.
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Cost and Accessibility
– GED: Costs vary by state but typically range from $80–$150 for all four tests. Many states offer free prep classes or fee waivers for low-income students.
– Adult Diploma: Public adult education programs are often free or low-cost. Private online schools may charge tuition, sometimes exceeding $1,000.
Both options are affordable compared to the long-term payoff of a college degree, but the GED is usually cheaper upfront.
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Personal Circumstances Matter
Your decision should align with your lifestyle and goals:
1. Age and Timeline: Younger adults (18–24) often benefit from completing a diploma to build academic habits. Older adults balancing work/family may prefer the GED’s efficiency.
2. Career Goals: If your dream program requires lab sciences or foreign language credits (common in diplomas), the adult diploma ensures you meet those prerequisites.
3. Learning Preferences: Do you thrive in self-study (GED) or need classroom structure (diploma)?
Real-Life Example: Maria, a 30-year-old mom, chose the GED to start nursing school quickly. Meanwhile, James, 22, opted for an adult diploma to strengthen his math skills before pursuing engineering.
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Myths Debunked
– “Colleges look down on the GED.” False. Most institutions value determination and life experience. A strong application (essays, recommendations, test scores) matters more than the credential type.
– “Diplomas are only for teens.” Adult programs cater to mature learners, offering career-focused electives and support services.
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Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?
Neither path is inherently “better”—it’s about what suits your needs. Ask yourself:
– How quickly do I want to start college?
– Do I need to strengthen specific academic skills?
– What does my target college recommend?
If possible, talk to admissions advisors at your desired schools. Many community colleges even offer dual-enrollment programs where you can earn college credits while finishing your GED or diploma.
Remember, both credentials are stepping stones. What truly matters is how you leverage them. Whether through a GED or diploma, your commitment to education demonstrates resilience—a trait colleges and future employers will admire.
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By understanding these differences, you’re already one step closer to achieving your academic goals. Whichever path you choose, keep your eyes on the prize: a college degree that opens doors to new opportunities.
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