Are you facing uncertainty about your future due to challenges in completing high school? If you've had challenging situations that kept you from being able to focus on school or if you might be aging out of the foster care system, you may be at a crossroads and asking whether getting a GED might be an option for you.

Navigating the path to education and employment can feel overwhelming. However, there's a possibility and another path to feeling successful in your education: obtaining your GED.

This alternative route to a high school diploma offers a lifeline to those who may have faced setbacks in traditional education. In this guide, we'll explore why getting your GED could be the key to unlocking a brighter future, even if you've fallen behind or faced obstacles along the way.

What is a GED?

GED stands for “General Educational Development”, though it is also sometimes referred to as a “General Education Diploma”. It consists of four high-school equivalency tests that will demonstrate to future colleges or employers that you have the same level of knowledge as a traditional high-school graduate. The four tests are for science, social studies, math, and reading/writing.

What are the Pros & Cons of getting a GED?

Pros:

1. Flexibility: GED programs offer flexible schedules and testing options, allowing individuals to study and take exams at their own pace.

2. Time-saving: GED programs typically take less time to complete compared to traditional high school education, allowing individuals to enter the workforce or pursue higher education sooner.

3. Recognition: A GED is widely recognized as equivalent to a high school diploma by employers, colleges, and the military, opening up various opportunities for employment and further education.

4. Cost-effective: GED programs are often more affordable than traditional high school education, as they may not require tuition fees or additional expenses for textbooks and materials.

5. Second chance: For individuals who did not complete high school, obtaining a GED provides a second chance to achieve a recognized credential and improve their prospects.

Cons:

1. Perception: Despite being widely accepted, some employers and institutions may still view a GED differently than a traditional high school diploma, potentially leading to stigma or bias in certain situations.

2. Educational gaps: GED programs may not provide the same comprehensive education as traditional high schools, leading to potential gaps in knowledge or skills.

3. Limited eligibility: Some colleges, universities, and employers may have specific requirements regarding educational credentials, which could limit opportunities for individuals with a GED.

4. Lack of social experience: GED programs typically do not offer the same social interactions and extracurricular activities as traditional high schools, potentially impacting social skills and networking opportunities.

5. Self-motivation required: Since GED programs often involve self-directed study, individuals need to be highly motivated and disciplined to successfully complete the program and pass the exams.

Who is eligible?

Anyone who is not enrolled in high school can take the GED. Individuals must be at least 18 years old. However, 16-17 year-olds can take the GED with a signed waiver from their school district, as per Florida law.

What benefit is there for the foster student?

For foster students who were unable to obtain their high school diploma, the GED offers a second chance. It opens doors to new employment opportunities, access to college, or eligibility for military service.

What are the qualifications?

To take the GED, follow the steps outlined here: How to create a GED account. The test costs $32 per module for in-person testing or $38 per module for online testing. Tests are available in English or Spanish.

Where do I take the test?

The GED test can be taken at any of Florida’s qualified testing sites. It’s also possible to take the test online, but you must achieve a practice test score of 145.

When do I need to apply, or are there deadlines?

There are no specific deadlines for applying for the GED. However, adequate test preparation is necessary, which typically takes 2-3 months for most people. Schedule your test when you feel adequately prepared.

When will I get the results?

Expect to receive your test results within 3 business days or 24 hours, depending on the testing method.

How do I know if this is a good option for me?

Getting a GED offers numerous benefits:

• Flexibility: You can study and take the test at your own pace.

• Opportunity: It opens doors to higher education, better job prospects, and military service.

• Second Chance: If high school didn’t work out for you, the GED provides an alternative path to success.

How do I sign up?

Follow these steps to sign up for the GED:

1. Review the qualifications and requirements.

2. Create a GED account by following the instructions in this guide: How to create a GED account.

3. Pay the necessary fees for the modules you plan to take.

4. Schedule your test either online or at a qualified testing site.

5. Prepare adequately for the test using available resources and study materials.

6. Take the test and await your results.

Deciding between getting your GED or sticking with traditional high school can be a daunting decision, especially if you're facing tough challenges or feeling uncertain about your future. But getting your GED can open up a whole new world of opportunities for you. It can help you get into college, find better jobs, and chase after your dreams. Even if you've had setbacks before, know that it's never too late to turn things around. With determination and support, earning your GED can be the first step toward creating a bright future for yourself, no matter what obstacles you've faced.