Is a GED Really a “Bad” Option? Let’s Clear Up the Myths
For decades, the General Educational Development (GED) credential has been a lifeline for millions of people who didn’t finish high school the traditional way. But despite its widespread availability, the GED often gets a bad rap. You’ve probably heard claims like, “Employers don’t respect a GED,” or “Colleges don’t take GED graduates seriously.” But how much of this is true? Let’s unpack the realities of earning a GED and why it might be a smarter choice than you think.
What’s the Big Deal About a GED?
First, let’s clarify what a GED actually is. It’s a high school equivalency credential awarded to individuals who pass a four-subject exam (math, science, social studies, and reasoning through language arts). Unlike a traditional diploma, the GED is designed for people who left school early due to life circumstances—whether it was family responsibilities, health issues, or simply needing to work.
Critics argue that the GED is a shortcut, but this perspective misses the point. For many, it’s not about taking the “easy way out” but about accessing opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
The Myth of the “Lesser” Credential
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a GED is inferior to a high school diploma. While it’s true that the two credentials aren’t identical, research shows that GED holders often perform just as well as traditional graduates in many areas. For example, a study by the American Council on Education found that GED passers have similar earnings and employment rates to high school graduates within a few years of entering the workforce.
Where the GED falls short, however, is in immediate outcomes. Young adults who earn a GED instead of finishing high school are less likely to pursue higher education initially. But this gap narrows over time. Many GED holders eventually enroll in college or vocational programs once they’re financially stable or ready to focus on their education.
College Admissions: Breaking Down Barriers
Can you go to college with a GED? Absolutely. Most U.S. colleges and universities accept GED credentials just like high school diplomas. Institutions like Harvard Extension School and community colleges nationwide explicitly welcome GED graduates. That said, competitive universities may require additional proof of academic readiness, such as SAT/ACT scores or college-prep coursework—but this is true for traditional diploma holders, too.
The real challenge isn’t the GED itself but the circumstances that led someone to pursue it. For example, a student who left high school due to instability might need extra support to transition to college life. Many schools now offer resources like tutoring, mentorship, and flexible scheduling to help GED graduates succeed.
Employment: Does a GED Hold You Back?
In the job market, employers generally care more about skills and experience than how you earned your credential. A GED meets the basic educational requirement for most entry-level positions, from retail to healthcare. In fact, some industries actively recruit GED holders for apprenticeships or on-the-job training programs.
Where stigma might linger is in highly competitive fields or companies that prioritize traditional education paths. But even here, attitudes are shifting. Companies like Google and IBM have moved toward skills-based hiring, focusing on certifications and practical abilities over formal degrees. For GED holders, this trend levels the playing field.
The Hidden Advantage of a GED
Here’s something rarely discussed: Earning a GED demonstrates resilience and self-motivation. Think about it—preparing for the exam while balancing work, family, or other obligations isn’t easy. Employers increasingly value these “soft skills,” which are harder to teach than technical knowledge.
Additionally, the GED opens doors to certifications and licenses that require a high school equivalency. Want to become an electrician, EMT, or real estate agent? A GED checks the box, allowing you to pursue specialized training and higher-paying roles.
When a GED Isn’t the Best Fit
While the GED is a valid option for many, it’s not perfect for everyone. Younger test-takers (under 18) often benefit more from returning to high school or alternative programs, where they can build social connections and explore extracurriculars. The GED also requires disciplined self-study, which can be tough without a support system.
Another consideration: Some career paths, like military service, have specific requirements. While the U.S. military accepts GED holders, they may need higher aptitude test scores or additional credits to enlist compared to diploma graduates.
Making the Decision: Key Questions to Ask
If you’re weighing a GED against staying in school or pursuing another route, ask yourself:
– What’s my timeline? The GED can be earned in months, making it ideal for adults needing quick credentials.
– What are my long-term goals? If college is the plan, research how your target schools view GED applicants.
– Do I learn better independently? The GED demands self-motivation; if you thrive in structured environments, a diploma program might suit you better.
The Bottom Line
So, how “bad” is a GED? Not bad at all—if it aligns with your needs. It’s a legitimate, respected credential that empowers people to rewrite their educational stories. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, dismissing it as inferior ignores the countless success stories of GED holders who’ve built thriving careers and lives.
Education is about growth, not how you start the journey. Whether you earn a diploma or a GED, what matters most is how you use that foundation to keep moving forward.
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