Going to college, looking out for a new job, or seeking promotion needs a high school certificate or its equivalent. But you need to know the difference and similarities that lie between these two certificates to decide on which is best for your future and career.  In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between a GED and a high school diploma. Carefully read through.

What is GED (General Educational Development)

General educational development (GED) is an internationally recognized program that tests the proficiency of students in standard high school subjects. It is specifically made for people that are 16 years or above and not yet enrolled in high school or are high school drop-outs. You can earn a degree that is equivalent to a high school diploma by enrolling in a GED program to test for your applied knowledge and skills to specific situations.

What is High School Diploma?

A high school diploma is also called a secondary school degree that is earned after the completion and graduation from High School. To be certified with a diploma in high school, you must have met the individual requirements of your state and school, and earned credits in different courses including general subjects such as mathematics, science, and English. GED and high school diplomas hold a variety of similarities and differences. In this article, we will enlighten you on the similarities and differences between GED and a high school diploma.

Differences Between GED and High School Diploma

Although GED can be used to apply for a college or to obtain a job just like a high school diploma, there are still some differences between these two. Having an understanding of the differences between them will help you make the right decision on which to go for.  We have highlighted five (5) differences that will help you gain adequate knowledge on GED and a high school diploma:

1. Educational Requirements

There are notable differences in the educational requirements of the GED program and high school diploma

GED vs High School Diploma

2. College acceptance

There are important differences in the acceptance into different colleges for students who undergo GED program and high school diploma students

GED vs high school diploma

3. Test requirements

The test requirement and mode of carrying out exams for traditional high school students differ  from students wanting to write a GED exam

GED vs high school diploma

4. Experience

There is a difference in the experience gained by high school students and a GED program candidate

GED vs high school diploma

5. Employment opportunities

There are differences in how employers esteem candidates with a high school diploma and candidates with a GED program certificate.

GED vs high school diploma

Pros and Cons of a GED and Diploma

Candidates or students without a high school diploma can now have educational and employment opportunities using the general education development (GED) credential. Although the GED program certificate was thought to be equivalent to a High School certificate not all organizations accord them the same. The Pros and Cons of GED are stated below:

Pros

Cons

How Does GED Compare to High School Diploma?

Because the GED is a high school equivalency diploma, you can use it to apply to college or for a job resume in the same way that you would a high school diploma. And if you’re wondering which schools and jobs accept the GED, we have good news for you! The GED is accepted by more than 98 percent of schools in the United States, including community colleges, universities, and private schools. If you combine your GED with a good SAT or ACT score, you’ll have a good chance of getting into any school you want. See 25 Proven Sat Tips And Tricks That You Must Use In 2022 If you’re looking to enter the workforce right away, the GED is a great option. Employers consider the GED to be equivalent to a high school diploma, so you should have no trouble applying for jobs—as long as you have the necessary skills and experience. Furthermore, earning a GED has the potential to significantly increase your earnings. Many GED graduates earn $9,000 more per year than those who do not have a high school diploma.

Conclusion

A high school diploma and GED shows prospective employers and colleges that you can apply academic skills following High School standard. Although preference is shown over a High school diploma over a GED certificate, this should not prevent you from taking the exams. You can confidently move forward with determination and perseverance to the next stage of your life.

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