Colleges with GED Programs: Pathways to Higher Education

For many adults, obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) credential serves as a crucial stepping stone toward achieving their educational and career aspirations. This article explores the role of colleges in offering GED programs and supporting individuals in their pursuit of higher education and sustainable employment.

The Significance of GED Programs

GED programs provide adults who have not completed high school with the opportunity to earn a high school equivalency credential. This credential is widely recognized by colleges, universities, and employers, opening doors to further education, training, and career advancement.

The City Colleges of Chicago Adult Education programs exemplify the commitment to providing open access for learners from diverse backgrounds. These programs deliver high-quality education, preparing students to transition successfully into college, career pathways, and the workforce. In collaboration with community partners, they offer supporting services to meet students' social, emotional, and academic needs, leading to economic mobility.

GED vs. HiSET

In some states, such as North Carolina, two nationally-recognized assessments can be used to obtain a state-issued High School Equivalency credential: the GED® and the HiSET®. Both assessments are recognized by the US Department of Education and cover the same content areas. North Carolina’s High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma program offers instruction to prepare learners to successfully pass a designated high school equivalency assessment.

Eligibility for the GED Test

Generally, anyone 18 years of age or older whose high school class has graduated is eligible to take the GED® Test. Residency is not typically a requirement. However, individuals younger than 18 may also be eligible under certain circumstances, often requiring permission from a school counselor and demonstration of academic readiness.

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GED Test Format and Content

The GED® test consists of four subject tests: Mathematics, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. Students working toward a high school diploma or GED® will be assessed in Mathematics and Language Arts. While it is possible to take all of the tests in one day, most students opt to split the tests into one or two at a time.

Preparing for the GED Test

Many colleges and adult education centers offer GED® preparation courses to help students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed on the test. These courses cover the content areas assessed on the GED® and provide test-taking strategies. Before taking the official GED® test, students may consider taking the GED Ready® practice test to assess their readiness. If you take the GED® test in-person at a testing site, you do not need to take the GED® Ready.

GED Testing Options and Retakes

The GED® test can be taken either in person at a testing center or online. For online testing, a computer with a camera and a microphone is required. If you are testing in a testing center, you may retake each GED® subject test two subsequent times, with no restrictions between retakes. However, if you fail the second time or on any subsequent retest, you must wait 60 days.

GED Credentials and Transcripts

Upon successful completion of the GED® test, individuals receive their official diploma and transcript. If the GED® was earned in 2014 or later, additional copies of the transcript can be ordered through the GED account. For GEDs earned before 2014, transcripts can be requested from the state in which the test was taken.

Colleges Offering GED Programs and Support

Many community colleges and adult education centers offer GED programs or preparation courses. These programs provide instruction, resources, and support services to help students prepare for the GED® test and transition to college or career pathways.

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City Colleges of Chicago: The City Colleges of Chicago Adult Education programs provide open access for learners from diverse backgrounds, delivering high-quality education to prepare students for college, career pathways, and the workforce.
Laurel Ridge Community College: Laurel Ridge Community College is an equal opportunity institution providing educational and employment opportunities, programs, services, and activities.

Additional Resources and Support

In addition to colleges and adult education centers, various organizations and agencies offer resources and support for individuals pursuing their GED®.

Department of Workforce Services (DWS): In Utah, the Department of Workforce Services (DWS) serves as the state's Job Connection, providing resources and support for individuals seeking employment and training opportunities.
Directory of Utah Adult Education Programs: This directory provides a comprehensive list of adult education programs in Utah, including GED® preparation courses.

Addressing Common Questions

Do I have to give my SSN? How is my SSN used?
How much do classes cost? Is it free?
What am I going to be tested on?
How long is the GED® test?
I’m 16 and want to take the GED®.
I’m 17 and want to take the GED®. What do I have to do?
My class hasn't graduated yet. What do I need to do to take the GED®?
I took my GED® prior to 2014. Do I have to start over?
Can I get credit for work experience?
Can I use college military experience toward my diploma?
Can I use college credit experience toward my diploma?
I have credits. Will these classes work for my visa?

Overcoming Barriers and Achieving Success

Earning a GED® can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By accessing the resources and support available through colleges, adult education centers, and other organizations, individuals can overcome barriers and achieve their educational and career goals.

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