What is the GED?
February 3, 2023 | Hali Schaefer
You’ve probably heard all your life how important it is to graduate from high school. The rumors are true: receiving a certificate or diploma proving your knowledge of general education topics is crucial to your future.
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!
The Down-Low on GEDs
“GED” stands for general educational development, which is just a way of describing the test you take to prove what you know from your time in high school. Getting a GED requires preparation and patience.
To get your GED, you must first pass a series of exams. These require careful studying and planning. It is helpful to read any relevant course materials suggested by your GED program and take practice tests to improve your strategy and secure your success.
DON’T FORGET: THE GED PROGRAM IS NOT YOUR ONLY OPTION. PROGRAMS LIKE ACCELERATION ACADEMIES MAKE IT EASY FOR STUDENTS WHO NEED A FLEXIBLE, COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT TO EARN A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA.
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What is the GED Test and What is on the GED Test?
The GED test is an overview and overall assessment of your Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language skills. Each subject has its own separate exam, so you can prepare for each individually. In addition, most of the exams have separate fees, so you must pay for each.
Exams are usually taken on a computer in a GED testing center, and they can include multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, or short-answer questions. Each exam usually takes at least an hour to complete, and you can schedule each on a different day or plan to take them all together.
FAST FACTS: GED FAQS:
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How long does it take to get a GED?: The timeline of getting a GED depends on each individual. Some people take a lot of time studying and preparing for the exam, while others may feel ready sooner. You can schedule your GED test anytime throughout the year, unlike other standardized exams like the SAT or the ACT.
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Can you go to college with a GED?: Yes, you can. Most colleges will accept either a GED or a high school diploma. However, not all colleges will see the two as equal, and they will most likely require extra references, essays, or exam scores if you’ve applied with a GED instead of a high school diploma. There may also be a stigma against the GED from some colleges.
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What are the GED requirements?: To take the GED, you must not currently be enrolled in a high school and must be at least 16 years old. In order to pass the GED exams, you need to score at least 145 points on each exam. Some states may require slightly higher scores to consider students passing, and some colleges offer credit hours for scores between 175-200.
DECIDING BETWEEN A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA AND A GED CAN BE A DIFFICULT DECISION, BUT NOT ONE YOU HAVE TO MAKE WITHOUT ALL THE INFORMATION. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GED AND HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA? READ MORE ABOUT THE DIFFERENCES HERE!
Acceleration Academies: Helping Students Get Their Diplomas
Now that you know the facts about GEDs, you’re better equipped to decide if you’d rather earn a GED, work towards a diploma, or try alternative learning paths. At Acceleration Academies, we help students graduate from high school on a timeline that works for them through a flexible curriculum.
Our classrooms are accepting and affirming, and our model allows students to learn at their own pace.
Or, if you’re ready to start your journey of earning a high school diploma, you can enroll today.