The GED is a viable option for someone who didn't complete high school, and GED exam preparation services can help you build up competency in the five core areas tested. People completing a GED can expect to earn 15% more in their lifetime than people without a high school diploma.
For students struggling with the GED subject areas, there are GED classes online that prepare you for the GED test. As with any online educational venture, there are things you should watch out for before spending any money or registering for GED testing.
1. Contact your state department of education for correct information about testing. Each state has different requirements concerning age and residency. Contacting the state lets you find out about requirements and necessary waivers. For example, the Florida GED requires an age waiver for students under 18.
2. Check the accreditation of the GED program before paying tuition. Any GED diploma should have ACE or GEDTS accreditation.
3. Be careful signing up for the GED online. Most of these companies are known as diploma mills, which means you pay them a fee for a diploma or GED certificate that is useless in the real world.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find your state's GED education requirements
Talking to your state department of education is the first step you should take before attempting the GED test. This ensures you've met all the requirements, don't need any waivers and are aware of any GED exam preparation services offered by the state.
I recommend: Take a look at the list of state education departments listed on the
Indiana Department of Education website. Get in touch with the administrators responsible for GED testing in your region at the
American Council on Education.
Assess your skills with a free GED practice test
Before signing up for a whole course load of GED exam prep, take a free online test that assesses your skills and shows you your weaknesses. Some of these tests offer explanations for wrong answers, letting you see exactly where you struggle so you can get the right kind of help.
I recommend: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Supplemental Publishers offer a GED practice test, including help with the GED essay. Polish a variety of skills with the
TestPrepReview.com free online quizzes. This site also includes a self-help directory, leading you to educational resources.
Enroll in an accredited online high school for a GED diploma
An online high school is not the same as an online GED diploma course. An online high school requires you to take classes and complete assignments over a period of 6 to 12 months, depending on the school. However, these high schools are accredited and give you a diploma that is not only marketable on a resume but transferable to a college. When researching online GED programs, remember that the GED exam cannot be taken online.
I recommend: Learn about online high schools that grant high school diplomas at
World Wide Learn. Search
Degree Press for an online high school by location, accreditation, tuition and religion preferences.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- When enrolling in an online high school, look for schools that offer a college preparatory GED education. These GED classes are more stringent and give you a college-bound education, as compared to a general education.
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