Can You Obtain a GED After Earning a High School Diploma?

For many, the traditional path through education involves completing high school in four years and graduating with a diploma. However, not everyone follows this route. In the United States, a significant percentage of students do not graduate high school. According to data, in 2019, the U.S. had a high school graduation rate of 84.6%, which means that approximately 15% of students did not complete their high school education. For those who didn't graduate, obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) credential can be an alternative to pursue further education or better job opportunities.

Understanding the GED

The GED exam is designed for adults who have not graduated from high school. It provides an opportunity to earn a high school equivalency diploma, which is recognized by colleges and employers. The GED exam comprises four separate content area tests that correspond to the four core subject fields addressed in a common high school curriculum. These exams are challenging, and decent preparation is key.

GED Requirements

To be eligible to take the GED tests, there are specific requirements that individuals must meet. It is important to note that these requirements are in place to ensure that the GED serves its intended purpose of providing an alternative credential for those who did not complete high school. Three primary requirements must be met for you to take the GED tests:

Not Currently Enrolled in High School: You cannot be a high school student and take the GED tests. The GED is intended for individuals who are not pursuing a traditional high school diploma. You must pursue one or the other, either a diploma or equivalency, not both. GED testing takes place at the high school senior level, so test-takers should thoroughly prepare. Some states even require that you take preparatory classes before the exam.
Never Graduated from High School: You do not need your equivalency diploma if you have a high school diploma. The GED is designed for those who did not complete high school. A high school diploma will prove to be your passport to a rewarding and well-paying job, and you don’t need a GED if you have a high school diploma. So again, if you’ve graduated from high school, you won’t get a GED, and you don’t have to, as your credential is valued at least in the same way as a GED.
Age Requirement: Typically, individuals must be at least 18 years old to take the GED. Some states allow testing at younger ages, but typically you cannot be younger than 16 years of age. Those between 16-18 must usually meet additional requirements. This can include official withdrawal from school, permission from the former school district, and parental consent.

Additional State Requirements

Some states may have additional requirements that must be met before an individual can pursue a GED credential. For example, you may need to be an official resident first. You might also need to show proof that you’ve been out of school for a certain amount of time.

Depending on where you live, you may need to pass an official qualification test first. Some states require test-takers to take an official prep test. You must score high enough to show that you can probably pass the real thing before you’re allowed to take the official test.

In certain states like North Dakota, Wisconsin, Arizona, and Illinois, you must pass a Constitution test to get your GED credential. Additionally, in North Dakota, you must also pass a Civics Test.

It is essential to check the specific GED requirements for your state to ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria.

The GED Exam

The GED test consists of four separate tests: Social Studies, Science, Mathematical Reasoning, and Reasoning Through Language Arts. You can take all four tests at once, or you can opt to space them out and take them at your own pace.

Preparation for the GED

Once you meet all the GED requirements, the next step is to study. Again, you will be tested on the same knowledge as high school seniors, which can be quite rigorous. Therefore, you must understand what types of questions to expect on the tests and be prepared to answer them. While studying online and using interactive study tools is an option, in-person classes at a local prep center can help, too. If you need guidance or study partners, you should consider in-person courses.

Alternative Options: Adult High School Diploma Programs

If you're thinking about getting your GED online, consider a better alternative: earn an accredited adult high school diploma online through Excel High School. Designed specifically for adults 18 and older, their Online Adult High School Diploma Program offers a fast track, self-paced, and affordable path to graduation. Don’t just settle for a GED-graduate with an official high school diploma.

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Excel High School offers regionally accredited courses, ensuring that diplomas are recognized by colleges, employers, and the military. They offer low monthly tuition options, making high-quality education accessible to a wide range of students, including those seeking an adult diploma. Their self-paced, online programs allow students to learn on their own schedule, making it easier to balance education with other commitments.

Excel High School offers two accredited diploma paths for adult learners-both fully online, flexible, and recognized by Cognia and MSA CESS. Whether you choose to work through courses or test out of subjects you already know, you’ll earn the same state-recognized high school diploma at your own pace.

Traditional Adult Diploma

Excel High School’s Traditional Adult Diploma is a step-by-step program that lets you complete coursework at your own pace. It’s a great fit if you prefer guided learning and want plenty of time to finish while only paying for the months you need.

Accelerated Program

AcceleratED lets you earn credit for what you already know through quick mastery assessments, reducing the amount of coursework required. This streamlined track is built for speed, helping motivated learners finish sooner and move forward confidently.

If you’re an adult learner, you’ll begin on the default 21.5-credit graduation track, but you may request to switch to the 24-credit option if desired. Once you enroll, our Enrollment Services team will review your transcript and add courses to your portal based on what you’ve already completed and what you still need. Courses are typically assigned in grade-level groupings, with about six at a time, making it easier to focus and stay organized.

Accreditation

Excel High School is regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Their programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma. Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world.

Can You Get a High School Diploma After Getting a GED?

You can, if you wish, get a high school diploma after you’ve earned your GED. Deciding between a GED and a high school diploma depends on your goals. A GED offers a quicker test-based credential, while a diploma provides structured learning and broader opportunities.

The Verdict

The GED exam is geared toward adults who did NOT graduate from high school. So, the simple answer is no. If you have a high school diploma, you are not eligible to take the GED exam. The purpose of the GED is to provide an alternative credential for individuals who did not complete high school, allowing them to pursue further education or better job opportunities.

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