Understanding College Admission Requirements for GED Holders
Navigating through the college admission process as a GED holder may seem complex, but understanding the requirements and expectations can ease any stress you may feel. While it’s common for each institution to have its criteria, there are common elements GED graduates should be aware of when applying to college.
Application Process for GED Students
Prospective students with a full GED certificate will follow a similar application process to those with a high school diploma. This usually includes:
- Completing the Application Form: Whether through the Common Application, individual college applications, or other platforms, GED holders fill out the same forms as other applicants.
- Submitting Transcripts: Colleges will require your official GED transcript, which serves as proof of your academic achievement.
- Essay Submissions: Personal essays are often a critical component of the application, offering a chance to showcase individuality and motivation.
- Providing Letters of Recommendation: These should come from individuals who can attest to your abilities and character, such as employers or mentors if traditional school references are not available.
Create Your Free Profile to Apply for Scholarships Today!
Understanding the GED Testing Process
The GED testing process consists of two placement tests and four subject area tests:
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Reasoning Through Language Arts
- Social Studies
- Science
These exams are designed to evaluate your knowledge and application of skills typically acquired during four years of high school education. To be eligible for these exams, you need to meet certain requirements:
- You must be at least 16 years old.
- You cannot be currently enrolled in high school.
- You must not have already earned a high school diploma.
You can register for online testing at GED.com. On their website, you’ll be able to create an online test account, find testing locations near you, and schedule your tests.
Understanding Your GED Score
Your GED score is a three-digit number ranging from 100 to 200, divided into several performance categories: Passing, College Ready, and College Ready+. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what each score range means:
Passing Score:
Range: 145 to 164
Implications: Scoring within this range means you have passed the GED test. A score of 145 or higher on each subject test is required to earn your GED credential, allowing you to apply for colleges and jobs (GED) (GED Prep).
College Ready:
Range: 165 to 174
Implications: Scores in this range indicate that you possess the skills necessary to begin college-level courses. This might exempt you from taking placement tests or remedial courses, saving you both time and money as you pursue your degree (GED) (GED).
College Ready+:
Range: 175 to 200
Implications: Achieving a score in this range suggests that you have demonstrated proficiency in skills typically taught in college-level courses. Depending on the program and institution, you may be eligible to receive up to 10 college credits. This can include up to 3 credits each in Math, Science, and Social Studies, and 1 credit in Humanities (GED) (GED Prep).
By understanding these score categories, you can better gauge your readiness for college and potentially accelerate your educational journey by earning college credits while completing your GED.
Studying for the GED
It goes without saying that preparing to take the GED is crucial if you want to pass the tests. So, here are some study strategies and resources that can help you:
- GED study guides: These comprehensive guides provide reviews of each subject, practice questions, and tips for taking the test.
- Online courses: Websites like Khan Academy offer free online courses covering various topics tested in the GED exams.
- Practice tests: Regularly taking practice tests will make you more familiar with the exam format and improve your time management skills.
Whether you’re studying on your own or attending a local GED program, it’s important to stay consistent and dedicated in your efforts.
Exploring Different Pathways With a GED
Also, don’t let the GED stigma stop you from thinking big. A GED can open doors for multiple educational opportunities. It is a widely accepted certification recognized by accredited colleges and online universities across the nation, and it’s valuable to employers, as well. How, you ask? Let’s go over it.
Traditional Colleges and Universities
Traditional colleges and universities are the first and most popular educational opportunities available to GED holders. Many institutions welcome GED graduates with open arms, so you shouldn’t worry about the GED-affect-college-acceptance myth. They understand the commitment required to earn a GED and appreciate the unique perspective these students bring to college courses.
- Notable mentions: Penn State University and Kaplan University both consider GED holders as standard applicants for their undergraduate programs.
Online Universities
Online universities represent another viable opportunity. These institutions offer flexibility that can be beneficial for non-traditional students who may have work or family commitments.
- Notable mentions: Western Governors University and Southern New Hampshire University are among many online institutions that accept students with a GED.
Community Colleges and Vocational Schools
In addition to traditional and online universities and technical colleges, there are also community colleges and vocational schools that can accept applicants with GEDs. These institutions often provide career-focused programs that can lead to employment after graduation.
As a former GED exam holder, it’s essential to consider:
- The acceptance rate of GED students at your chosen institution
- If the college provides support services for non-traditional students
- Flexibility of class schedules
- Your own career goals and how the college’s program ali