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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between GED and High School Diploma?

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The main difference between a GED and a high school diploma lies in the method of obtaining them and the time required to complete them. A high school diploma signifies that the student has attended and successfully completed all required courses in a traditional classroom setting, while the GED is a set of five exams that determine whether the test-taker has a high school graduate's level of knowledge.

Here are some key differences between a high school diploma and a GED:

  1. Method of obtaining: A high school diploma is awarded upon completion of a prescribed course of study at a public or private high school, while a GED is obtained by passing four GED tests that cover social studies, science, mathematics, and reasoning through language arts.
  2. Time required: Traditional high school students typically need four years to complete classes and graduate, while the GED is a 7-hour test. For most people, preparing for it takes less than a year.
  3. Academic support: High school students have access to academic support from their instructors, while GED test-takers are mostly on their own for studying unless they register for GED classes.
  4. College acceptance: According to GED.com, 98% of colleges accept applicants with a GED. However, a high school diploma may be slightly more advantageous for college admission, as some colleges may have specific requirements for accepting a diploma as proof of high school completion.
  5. Earning potential: On average, high school diploma holders earn more than GED recipients. High school graduates earn $11,000 more per year on average than someone who has not completed high school, while GED recipients earn only $9,000 more.

In summary, both a GED and a high school diploma can be pathways to future opportunities, but they differ in the method of obtaining them and the time required to complete them. Each option has its advantages, and the best choice depends on an individual's goals, timeline, and learning preferences.

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  • What is the Difference Between GED and High School Diploma?
  • Comparative Table: GED vs High School Diploma

    • Comparative Table: GED vs High School Diploma

    The main difference between a GED and a high school diploma lies in the educational requirements and the way they are obtained. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between the two:

    Feature GED High School Diploma
    Meaning General Education Development, a standardized test measuring knowledge in math, social studies, reading, and writing equivalent to a high school graduate. Awarded upon successful completion of all required courses for graduation, indicating a well-rounded education across numerous subjects.
    Time Investment Typically takes less than a year to prepare for the 7-hour test. Traditional high school students typically need four years to complete classes and graduate.
    Age Requirement In most states, you can take the GED tests any time after age 16. Minimum age requirements vary by state, but typically students must be between ages 15-18.
    Accessibility Can be taken at an authorized GED testing center. Offered at traditional high schools and some online high schools.
    Acceptance Most colleges and employers accept the GED as an equivalent to a high school diploma. May have a more competitive edge in job market and college admissions compared to a GED.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.