Colleges That Accept GED: Paving Your Path to Higher Education

For individuals who didn't complete high school, the General Education Development (GED) test offers a second chance to pursue academic and career goals. Earning a GED demonstrates a commitment to education, preparing students to enter the job market, vocational school, or college. Many colleges and universities recognize the GED as equivalent to a high school diploma and welcome applications from GED graduates.

Understanding the GED

The GED, or General Education Development, is designed for students who didn't finish high school or earn a high school diploma. It measures a student's understanding of four subjects: math, science, social studies, and language arts. The GED Testing Service designs the GED to measure your understanding of these four subjects.

The GED Testing Program certifies that those who pass the test have high school-level skills and knowledge in each field. This equivalency is one of the reasons why there are so many colleges that accept GED certificates.

The test is broken into four parts, which can be taken individually or as a complete unit. The four parts are:

Science
Social Studies
Mathematical Reasoning
Reasoning Through Language Arts (Reading and Writing)

You’ll be able to prepare for the test by taking online practice questions. The online GED Test offers multiple-choice questions and/or drop-down answers. You won’t have to submit any answers in writing but will choose from a list of answers. For math questions, you’ll have access to a calculator.

Read also: College Admissions Guide

Depending on your state of residence, you can take the GED exam online or may need to take it in person at a GED testing center. Some states use the HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) which is similar to the GED. Every state sets its own requirements for the GED Test. You can access GED preparation tools online that explain in detail the tests and how to get ready to take the exams. You’ll have a set amount of time to complete each of the four sections and you don’t have to complete all four at the same time.

In order to pass the GED exam, you need a minimum of 145 points in each subject. Passing scores of 165-174 are good scores for college. Colleges and universities may have a minimum GED score in order to be considered for admission. GED test scores are treated the same as if you were submitting high school academic transcripts. You can obtain your scores through the GED testing center. The GED tests are scored on a 100-200 scale, and the minimally required score (145 points) counts for all four tests covering Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics. The GED exam is pretty challenging and decent preparation is absolutely required. There are four independent modules on the GED exam. The exam is for adults who don’t have a high school diploma.

GED vs. High School Diploma

The GED and a high school diploma are academically equivalent. In fact, roughly 96% of employers accept the GED as equivalent, in addition to the vast majority of colleges and universities accepting a GED.

The main difference between a GED and a high school diploma is that the GED is designed for students 16 years or older who didn’t complete high school for one reason or another.

While earning your high school diploma provides unique opportunities that a test never will, such as life experience and the camaraderie of friends, earning a GED won’t provide any academic hurdles to pursuing your college degree, which is why there are so many colleges that accept GED certificates.

Read also: Transferring with a Low GPA

Colleges That Accept GED

Nearly all universities and colleges accept the GED as an equivalent to a high school diploma. Therefore, the schools listed below are just a sample list of some of the colleges that accept GED. Keep in mind that schools may change requirements or degrees at any time, so be sure to check with your favorite schools before applying.

Community Colleges: These two-year schools often have open admissions policies welcoming GED holders.
Examples:
- Metropolitan Community College
Technical/vocational colleges: These schools focus on career-oriented programs and workforce training.
Examples:

Read also: College Admissions Insights
- J. Technical colleges and vocational schools also tend to be very welcoming of GED applicants.
Four-year universities: While more competitive, many four-year public and private universities accept GED applicants.
Examples:
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis
- University of St. Thomas, St.
- Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla
- University of Missouri, Columbia
- Washington University in St. Louis, St.

Specific College Examples

Here are some examples of colleges that accept GED certificates, along with information about their programs and admission requirements:

Bowling Green State University eCampus: This Ohio school has a unique online program recognized as one of the country’s best. The four online undergraduate degrees at BGSU include Quality Systems, RN to BSN, Allied Health, and Management and Technology. Classes are offered on the eCampus platform, seven-week sessions, and are 100% online. eCampus application fees are waived for undergraduate and graduate students, and ACT/SAT test scores are optional. You’ll need your GED transcript and FAFSA to apply, along with other documents.
CSU Global: Ranked as one of the best online bachelor’s programs, CSU Global was the first fully-accredited online state university in the country. You can choose from 15 online programs in fields such as Finance, Computer Science, Information Technology, Healthcare Administration and Management, and Criminal Justice among them. Courses are taught 100% online by faculty who are specially trained in online education and use multiple technologies in real-world simulations, multimedia lectures, ebooks, etc. Among the documents you’ll need is your GED transcript and submit your FAFSA information.
Northern Michigan University Global: This university has ten undergraduate programs offered online. A few of the entirely online programs include studies in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Loss Prevention Management, Clinical Lab Sciences, etc. Admission to this program is now test-blind/test-free, meaning the ACT/SAT scores aren’t required, but you will need to submit your GED transcript demonstrating a passing score on the test score.
Oregon State University Ecampus: Your GED can help you join the over 28,000 students worldwide who are earning their degrees from one of the nation’s top online bachelor’s programs. Oregon State University Ecampus has over 30 BA or BS degree programs from which to choose over 110 subjects, and more than 1,600 online classes. The experienced and award-winning OSU faculty teach online classes just as the on-campus students receive.
California State University-Dominguez Hills: Established in 1857, this university has provided exceptional on-campus and online educational opportunities for California residents and beyond. Your GED qualifies you to apply for admission consideration, along with an application. ACT/SAT test scores are suspended.
University of Arizona Global Campus: You can apply for admission to these highly ranked online programs with your GED. You’re sure to find what you need from one of the university’s 30 online undergraduate programs. This student-centered school doesn’t require an application fee, no SAT/ACT requirements, and will allow you to take an online course for three weeks risk-free. The application process is simple and requires your GED credential information and other materials.
University of Memphis Global: The University of Memphis Global division offers one of the best nationally-ranked online bachelor’s programs. Your GED will allow you to apply for admission to one of UM-G’s 22 online bachelor’s programs. This is a simple admission process asking for your GED/HiSET information, ACT/SAT scores, some general, personal information, and more.
University of Wisconsin System eCampus: If you’re looking for an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree you can earn online, you should look at the University of Wisconsin System eCampus, which welcomes your GED transcript. The university offers an Associate of Arts and Sciences and Bachelor of Science degrees online in various subject areas in Health Care, Business, Information Sciences and Technology, Cybersecurity, etc. This online degree program uses a competency-based format (UW Flexible Option) that will allow you to demonstrate mastery of the subject matter through projects or other assessment methods.
Washington State University Global Campus: A GED will help you join other students earning their undergraduate degrees from the nationally recognized Washington State University Global Campus. You’ll have a choice of 21 bachelor’s programs in areas such as Science and Technology, Communication, Data Analysis, English, Hospitality Business Management, Marketing, Political Science, Social Sciences, and more. You’ll request your official GED transcript from the testing agency as part of the admission process along with other application documents, like the FAFSA, resume, etc.
Western Governors University: WGU offers 8 programs with degrees in Nursing, Business, IT, and Teaching and has a unique and highly flexible competency-based education model. You’ll need to provide your GED transcript as well as an application. Be sure to apply for federal financial aid.

Historical Context

The history of the General Education Development (GED) test dates to 1942 and World War II. During WWII, large numbers of Americans left high school to enter the military and deploy overseas.

There are many reasons why students may not be able to finish their high school degree. Students may have to enter the workforce to help support their families. Health issues may force them to leave school. Being a member of, or living in an underserved area of the country, may cause students to leave high school through no fault of their own. There is any number of reasons that may cause someone to be unable to finish their public education.

Special Admission Considerations

Some universities have special admission considerations for students with special talents who do not meet the Board of Regents assured admission requirements for full admission. Prospective students who do not meet assured admission requirements and who can provide evidence of special talents, such as outstanding artistic skills, unique educational experience or remarkable career achievements can be considered for admission with executive-level sponsorship. Each academic college and the Athletic Department are permitted to recommend no more than 15 special talent appeals to the director of admissions each term. The Admissions Committee will review the prospective student’s academic file.

Financial Aid

Absolutely, just like any other student. If you’re admitted to an accredited college or university and can demonstrate financial need by filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can be considered for financial aid. As an online student, you may qualify for federal and state grants, loans, and scholarships. Some online schools may even offer work-study opportunities. The FAFSA forms are available on October 1st and you should file as soon as possible.

Admission Requirements and Considerations

While a GED is widely accepted, it's essential to understand the specific admission requirements of each institution. These may include:

Minimum GED score: Many schools require a passing score of 145 or higher on each section of the GED. Some colleges accept the GED College-Ready range (165-174) and the GED-College Ready Plus Credit range (175-200).
Standardized test scores: The SAT or ACT may be required by some institutions. The GED Testing Service recommends that all students who have a GED also take one of the standardized tests before applying to college.
Transcripts: An official transcript from the last high school attended may be required.
Personal statement: A personal statement and academic explanation may be required as part of the application.
College credits: If you have fewer than 30 college credits after taking the GED exam, you may need to submit your official GED score report. (Proof of GED or equivalent may be required for financial aid purposes for students with 30+ credits.)
Application fee: There is a $45 application fee payable with a credit card or a check. If you participate in the free/reduced lunch program or are a military service member, military spouse or military dependent, you may request to waive this fee at the end of the application.
Letters of recommendation
Activities summary
Personal interview

Holistic Review

Per Admissions Office Procedures Manual in Accordance with RP- 5.2.1-4b-an Admissions Committee may admit students who do not meet the Board of Regents assured admission requirements for full admission. These decisions are based upon a holistic review of an individual applicant's student record including but not limited to academic achievement (GPA, academic courses, class rank, standardized test scores), high school course availability, recommendation letters, and retention services. The Admissions Committee will utilize this information through the holistic review process to determine whether there are other indicia in the record that would contribute to the applicant's academic success at the University.

The Special Circumstances Committee will holistically review applicants with special merit that are required to participate in intrusive and successful retention programs such as, but not limited to, Nebraska College Preparatory Academy, William H. Thompson Scholars, and Nebraska Athletics Support Services. The associate vice chancellor of academic services and enrollment management must approve retention programs to be considered for the Special Circumstances Committee.

Special Talents

In Accordance with RP- 5.2.1-4b, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln may admit students with special talents who do not meet the Board of Regents assured admission requirements for full admission. Prospective students who do not meet assured admission requirements and who can provide evidence of special talents, such as outstanding artistic skills, unique educational experience or remarkable career achievements can be considered for admission with executive-level sponsorship. Each academic college and the Athletic Department are permitted to recommend no more than 15 special talent appeals to the director of admissions each term. The Admissions Committee will review the prospective student’s academic file.

Considerations for Nontraditional Students

Many colleges that accept GED certificates are designed for nontraditional students, as well as traditional students. This may help you in your search for the perfect school for you.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are seven characteristics that are common for nontraditional students. Nontraditional students:

Do not immediately continue your education after you graduate from high school
Attend college only part time
Work full time (35 hours a week or more)
Are financially independent
Have children or dependents other than your spouse
Are single parents
Have a GED, not a high school diploma

Over the years nontraditional students have become more common. This is thanks to the freedom and flexibility that online degrees offer. In fact, 75% of all undergraduate students have at least one of the seven characteristics listed above, making them nontraditional students.

Making Your Choice

When selecting a college, GED holders should consider the following factors:

Cost of attendance: Tuition, fees, housing, etc.
Minimum GED score: Many schools require a passing score of 145 or higher.
Standardized test scores: The SAT or ACT may be required.
Program offerings: Choose a college that offers programs in your intended major or career field.
Accreditation: Ensure the college is accredited by a reputable organization.
Location and Learning Style: Consider whether you prefer to study online or on campus, and choose a college that fits your learning style.

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