Understanding the Differences: High School Diploma vs. GED

When it comes to determining whether a high school diploma or a GED is more favorable for college admission, factors like test difficulty, stigma, and future plans all play a significant role. This article will explore the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision.

What is a High School Diploma?

A high school diploma is awarded upon successful completion of high school courses, typically taking four years to achieve. It demonstrates an individual's ability to commit to a long-term educational goal and perform well in a structured educational environment.

What is a GED?

The General Educational Development (GED) is a test that assesses general educational achievement at or above the secondary school level. The GED takes less time to complete, usually taking no more than a few months to prepare and a day to take the exam. While it is equivalent to a high school diploma, completion does not carry the same level of commitment and dedication as a traditional high school education.

College Admission Considerations

High School Diploma

For most colleges and universities, a high school diploma is preferred over a GED. This is due to the long-term commitment required to earn a diploma, which can signify better academic perseverance and readiness for higher education. Additionally, community colleges in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area accept GEDs, but most four-year universities expect a high school diploma. However, both a high school diploma and a GED require taking admissions tests such as the ACT, SAT, or Accuplacer to ensure students are ready for college-level work.

GED

While a GED can be completed in a short time, it is generally accepted by community colleges and some universities. Employers are usually not biased against hiring individuals with a GED if they have strong ACT/SAT scores. However, a GED may still carry a stigma in some communities, associating it with laziness or incompetence among high school dropouts. Moreover, even though policies state that employers should not be biased, a GED might still impact your resume, especially in professional fields where a more traditional educational background is preferred.

Future Plans and Career Prospects

Your future plans will significantly influence your decision between a high school diploma and a GED. If you plan to attend a community college or a four-year university, securing a high school diploma is often more advisable. It may also be helpful to spend a year at a community college to build a solid academic foundation before applying to a four-year institution.

However, if your future aspirations are primarily related to the workforce, your references, resume quality, and job skills will be more critical than whether you have a GED or a high school diploma. Employers are often more concerned with the skills and experience you bring to the table rather than the specific qualifications on paper.

Conclusion and Personal Perspective

While a high school diploma carries more weight in the college admission process and signifies better preparation for future education, a GED can still be a viable path to higher education and employment. If you have the opportunity to pursue a high school diploma, it is generally recommended, as it demonstrates a stronger commitment to education and can bolster your college applications. However, if you have limited time or other constraints, a GED can serve as a stepping stone to further education or a fulfilling career.

It's important to remember that the stigma associated with a GED is not universal, and many employers do not consider it a significant barrier. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual circumstances, future plans, and long-term goals.