Can Someone with a High School Diploma Obtain a GED and Attend College Simultaneously?

It is important to clarify the relationship between a high school diploma and the General Educational Development (GED) certificate. For individuals who possess a high school diploma, obtaining a GED would be unnecessary and potentially redundant. However, there are certain circumstances under which someone with a high school diploma might consider pursuing a GED while enrolled in college.

Why You Don’t Need a GED if You Have a High School Diploma

Both a high school diploma and a GED serve as equivalent educational credentials that qualify individuals for college admissions. Therefore, if you already have a high school diploma, obtaining a GED would be pointless. Both qualifications are required for college entry, and each certifies that the individual has met the academic standards set by their high school.

Attending College while Pursuing Your GED

While you don’t need a GED if you already have a diploma, there are specific circumstances where it might be beneficial to pursue a GED concurrently with college. For instance, some community colleges and four-year institutions offer dual enrollment options, allowing high school students to take college courses and earn credits. These credits can often be transferred to a four-year university, potentially reducing the time needed to complete your degree.

Special Considerations and Exceptions

In the United States, there are a few exceptions to the requirement for a high school diploma or GED. Some colleges, especially those with special programs for disadvantaged students, may allow admission with the condition that the student earns a GED or diploma within a short period.

Enrollment in Advanced Programs

Many community colleges offer preparatory classes for the GED, and some even have programs to help adults earn their high school diplomas. For example, in my hometown, the local community college provided GED prep classes and a 'high school diploma for adult learners' program, which my father used to earn his diploma after dropping out to join the Navy.

Admissions Requirements for Higher Education Institutions

In most cases, higher education institutions in the U.S. require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, SUNY (State University of New York) and CUNY (The City University of New York) along with many private institutions, offer programs where students who do not have a high school diploma are expected to earn a GED during the summer session before the academic year begins.

Steps to Obtain a GED

To obtain a GED, you will need to follow these steps:

Enroll in GED prep classes at a local community college or an institution offering such programs. Pass the GED test, which covers five subject areas: Reasoning through Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Mathematical Reasoning, and Science. Once you pass the test, you will have earned your GED certificate.

By understanding the nuances of obtaining a GED while already holding a high school diploma, you can make informed decisions about your educational path and pursue opportunities that align with your goals.