How to Finish Up My High School Diploma
The decision to take General Educational Development (GED) tests to receive your high school diploma statistically results in higher earnings and lower unemployment rates, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bureau, in its 2008 Current Population Survey, found that full-time workers without a high school diploma earned an average weekly income of $453 and had an unemployment rate of 9 percent, compared to those with a high school diploma or equivalent who earned an average of $618 weekly and experienced an unemployment rate of 5.7 percent.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Prepare for the GED tests. According to the American Council of Education, the GED tests for proficiency in five areas: science, social studies, math, reading and writing. The GED Testing Service, provided by the American Council of Education, offers several options for test preparation, including traditional classes, online practice and home study options.
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Register to take the GED tests. You can locate a GED testing center by calling (800) 626-9433. According to the American Council of Education, the official GED tests may not be taken online. Before using an online GED testing program, check with your state's Department of Education to make sure the program is accredited, as well as with colleges you may be interested in attending to make sure they will accept the credentials of a particular certificate or diploma program. The American Council of Education's GED credential "is accepted by 98% of colleges and universities and 96% of employers as equivalent to a high school diploma for admissions and hiring."
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Take the GED tests. Contact your testing center if you have questions about your scores. To meet minimum passing standards you must have a combined score of at least 2250 and score a minimum of 410 on each subject test, according to the American Council of Education. You may take the GED tests up to three times in a year if you do not meet the minimum passing scores on one or more of the content areas.
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Tips & Warnings
Online high school diploma programs are gaining popularity. If you're interested in this option, make sure to find an accredited program. If you plan to pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree after graduation, check with your college of choice to make sure the online high school credentials will be accepted. The U.S. Department of Education provides a database of state contacts at www.ed.gov.
