How Well Do You Know the Difference? GED vs. High School Diploma

You may have heard that the GED and a high school diploma are the same. (Hint: They’re not). While they may both prove that you’ve completed a certain amount of education, each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

You may also have heard of something called a GED. But what is the GED, and should you consider it if traditional high school isn’t working for you? We’ve taken a deep dive into all things GED, so read on to learn more!

WHAT IS A GED?

The GED is a General Education Development test. This is a series of exams that test to see if you have met the necessary knowledge requirements that a high school education would teach.

The GED lets colleges and employers know that you’ve invested time into your education, even if you didn’t finish high school the traditional way. It’s essentially a certificate proving that you can move on to the next phase of your life, whether that’s continuing your education through a college degree, or if it’s joining the workforce.

HOW TO GET A GED – FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions when it comes to how to go about getting a GED:

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A GED?

The amount of time it takes to earn a GED ultimately depends on each individual. While some may be ready to take the exam soon after deciding to leave high school, others may want more time to prepare and study.

Unlike high school, the GED does not have required classes that students must attend to earn their certificate. If any classes are offered, they are generally optional, which means students can take as much time as they need to prepare for the exams.

WHAT IS A GED TEST?

The GED test is divided into four exams, each covering a single subject. Students are tested on Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies.

Each exam takes at least an hour to complete, and each requires the student to pay a fee. Students can also invest in study materials for the exams. To pass the exam, students must score at least 145 points on each test.

THE BENEFITS OF GETTING A GED

There are some benefits of getting a GED, depending on your unique circumstances. Although, the benefits of getting a high school diploma outweigh the benefits of getting a GED.

Getting a GED may take less time than staying in high school to earn a diploma. However, trading the invaluable relationships and experiences that can come through a full high school education for getting a certification quicker might not be the best option for you.

If you’re getting near the cut-off age for high school students in your state (usually around 20 or 21), a GED could be a good, quick option. With no age restrictions, the GED gives students more time if they need flexibility in their schedule to finish school quickly. However, the GED is not the only way to get a high school-level certification in a flexible format.

THE GED ISN’T THE ONLY WAY TO GET A HIGH-SCHOOL-LEVEL CERTIFICATION IN A FLEXIBLE FORMAT. ACCELERATION ACADEMIES IS ANOTHER OPTION. 

GED VS. HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

What is a High School Diploma?

A high school diploma is a certificate that proves that you have attended the necessary classes and completed the required coursework to graduate high school. This can include exams in each class and any projects and homework that teachers may assign.

Like the GED, a high school diploma lets employers and continuing education institutions know that you’re ready to move on to the next season of your life.

How to Get a High School Diploma – FAQ

We’ve answered some of the most common questions people have related to high school diplomas:

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A DIPLOMA?

Most traditional high schools last four years. While some students may need some more time in certain grade levels than others, and some may skip grades entirely, four years is the average amount of time students spend earning their high school diplomas.

However, there are several alternative options to traditional high school, and these pathways can be helpful for those who need a more personalized high school experience.

WANT A FLEXIBLE WAY TO GET YOUR DIPLOMA? CHECK OUT HOW ACCELERATION ACADEMIES HELPED CHRISTIAN FINISH HIGH SCHOOL ON HIS SCHEDULE!

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A DIPLOMA?

High school diplomas take time and work. Not only do students need to attend a set amount of classes, but they may also need to complete volunteer service hours or other requirements for graduation set by the school. Plus, homework, tests, quizzes, and papers are required to pass each class.

BENEFITS OF A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

While getting a high school diploma may take more time upfront than a GED, the benefits of choosing this route make it all worth it. From time spent connecting with fellow students and gaining necessary team working and people skills, to time with teachers and the support they provide, high school has perks beyond just the diploma.

Not to mention, there are potential stigmas associated with the GED that add a layer of difficulty to securing jobs in some cases.

Another benefit of the high school diploma is earning potential. Those with a high school diploma can earn more than those without, and they are qualified for more jobs from the get-go. Plus, the patience and time management skills you’ll develop while completing your high school education will help you in the workforce.

WHAT’S THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU?

Deciding how to finish a high school level education can be difficult, and everyone has unique needs that factor into their decision.

At Acceleration Academies, we provide the resources to complete a high school diploma in a way that works with each of our student’s individual needs. From flexible schedules to welcoming and affirming classrooms, we help students like you accomplish their goal of graduating.

What is the difference between a GED and high school diploma? Want to learn more?

LET’S GO!

Or, if you want to know more from us directly, you can request more information. If you’re ready to see how Acceleration Academies can help you graduate in a format that works for you, apply today!