{"id":11611,"date":"2024-06-07T13:40:45","date_gmt":"2024-06-07T13:40:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/\/?p=11611"},"modified":"2024-08-08T12:29:26","modified_gmt":"2024-08-08T12:29:26","slug":"ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/","title":{"rendered":"GED vs. High School Diploma? What\u2019s the Difference?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_72 ez-toc-wrap-left-text counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">GED vs. High School Diploma? What&#039;s the Difference?<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#GED-vs-High-School-Diploma-Whats-the-Difference\" title=\"GED vs. High School Diploma? What&#8217;s the Difference?\">GED vs. High School Diploma? What&#8217;s the Difference?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#Introduction\" title=\"Introduction\">Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#Understanding-the-GED\" title=\"Understanding the GED\">Understanding the GED<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#Who-Can-Take-the-GED-Exam\" title=\"Who Can Take the GED Exam?\">Who Can Take the GED Exam?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#How-Does-a-GED-Impact-Your-Career\" title=\"How Does a GED Impact Your Career?\">How Does a GED Impact Your Career?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#Key-Differences-Between-a-GED-and-a-High-School-Diploma\" title=\"Key Differences Between a GED and a High School Diploma\">Key Differences Between a GED and a High School Diploma<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#5-Reasons-to-Choose-an-Online-High-School-Diploma-over-a-GED\" title=\"5 Reasons to Choose an Online High School Diploma over a GED\">5 Reasons to Choose an Online High School Diploma over a GED<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/ged-vs-high-school-diploma-whats-the-difference\/#Conclusion-Making-the-Right-Choice-for-Your-Future\" title=\"Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Future\">Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Future<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"1:1-1:53\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GED-vs-High-School-Diploma-Whats-the-Difference\"><\/span>GED vs. High School Diploma? What&#8217;s the Difference?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"3:1-3:111\">Explore the key distinctions between a GED and a high school diploma, understanding their impact on career opportunities, higher education prospects, and personal fulfillment.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"5:1-5:15\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"7:1-7:89\">For those who haven&#8217;t completed a traditional high school education, the decision between pursuing a GED (General Educational Development) credential or enrolling in an online high school to earn a diploma can be a crucial one. While both options can open doors to further education and employment, they have distinct differences that should be carefully considered. This article aims to shed light on the GED vs. high school diploma debate, helping you make an informed choice.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"9:1-9:24\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding-the-GED\"><\/span>Understanding the GED<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"11:1-11:282\">The GED is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge and skills in four core subject areas: Science, Mathematical Reasoning, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts. Passing the GED demonstrates that you possess the academic equivalent of a high school graduate.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"13:1-13:29\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who-Can-Take-the-GED-Exam\"><\/span>Who Can Take the GED Exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"15:1-15:270\">Typically, individuals who are at least 16 years old, not currently enrolled in high school, and have not yet graduated are eligible to take the GED exam. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ged.com\/blog\/what-are-the-requirements-for-getting-your-ged\/#:~:text=Some%20states%20allow%20testing%20at,school%20district%2C%20and%20parental%20consent.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">specific requirements<\/a> may vary slightly from state to state, so it&#8217;s important to check your local regulations.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"17:1-17:37\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-Does-a-GED-Impact-Your-Career\"><\/span>How Does a GED Impact Your Career?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"19:1-19:320\">While having a GED is certainly better than having no high school credential, it&#8217;s important to recognize that employers often favor candidates with a high school diploma. A diploma demonstrates commitment, perseverance, and the ability to complete a long-term program, qualities that are highly valued in the workforce.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"21:1-21:58\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key-Differences-Between-a-GED-and-a-High-School-Diploma\"><\/span>Key <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ged.com\/blog\/whats-the-difference-between-the-ged-and-a-high-school-diploma\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Differences<\/a> Between a GED and a High School Diploma<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"23:1-23:99\">The primary distinction between a GED and a high school diploma lies in the process of attainment.<\/p>\n<ul data-sourcepos=\"25:1-26:82\">\n<li data-sourcepos=\"25:1-25:127\"><strong>High School Diploma:<\/strong> Earned by completing a four-year program of coursework and fulfilling all graduation requirements.<\/li>\n<li data-sourcepos=\"26:1-26:82\"><strong>GED:<\/strong> Obtained by passing a series of four tests that assess your knowledge in core academic subjects.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"28:1-28:124\">While both credentials can open doors to opportunities, a high school diploma often carries more weight in certain contexts.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"30:1-30:63\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5-Reasons-to-Choose-an-Online-High-School-Diploma-over-a-GED\"><\/span>5 Reasons to Choose an Online High School Diploma over a GED<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ol data-sourcepos=\"32:1-34:159\">\n<li data-sourcepos=\"32:1-33:0\">\n<p data-sourcepos=\"32:5-32:285\"><strong>Improved Job Prospects:<\/strong> Studies have shown that individuals with a high school diploma tend to have better job prospects and earn higher salaries than those with a GED. Employers often view a diploma as evidence of dedication and the ability to complete a long-term commitment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-sourcepos=\"34:1-34:159\">\n<p data-sourcepos=\"34:5-34:159\"><strong>Sense of Accomplishment:<\/strong> Earning a high school diploma, even through an online program, provides a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment. It represents a significant milestone in one&#8217;s educational journey and can boost self-confidence.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-sourcepos=\"36:1-37:0\">\n<p data-sourcepos=\"36:5-36:276\"><strong>Greater Acceptance in Higher Education:<\/strong> While most colleges and universities accept GED holders, some institutions may give preference to applicants with a high school diploma. Additionally, a diploma may be required for certain scholarships or financial aid programs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-sourcepos=\"38:1-39:0\">\n<p data-sourcepos=\"38:5-38:275\"><strong>Enhanced Career Advancement Opportunities:<\/strong> A high school diploma can open doors to promotions and career advancement opportunities that may not be available to GED holders. It demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning and a willingness to invest in one&#8217;s future.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-sourcepos=\"40:1-40:116\">\n<p data-sourcepos=\"40:5-40:116\"><strong>Military Eligibility:<\/strong> The military typically prefers applicants with a high school diploma over those with a GED, and certain branches may have stricter requirements for GED holders.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-sourcepos=\"42:1-42:54\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-Making-the-Right-Choice-for-Your-Future\"><\/span>Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Future<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"44:1-44:382\">The decision between a GED and a high school diploma is a personal one that depends on your individual circumstances and goals. While a GED can be a faster route to obtaining a high school equivalency credential, an online high school diploma offers numerous benefits, including improved job prospects, greater acceptance in higher education, and a sense of personal accomplishment.<\/p>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"46:1-46:46\">If you&#8217;re considering earning your high school credential, carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option. If time and flexibility are major concerns, a GED may be the right choice. However, if you&#8217;re looking to maximize your opportunities for future success, an online high school diploma may be the more valuable investment.<\/p>\n<p data-sourcepos=\"48:1-48:243\">Remember, regardless of your chosen path, the most important thing is to take action and complete your high school education. A high school credential, whether a diploma or a GED, can open doors to a brighter future filled with possibilities.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> Explore the key distinctions between a GED and a high school diploma, understanding their impact on career opportunities, higher education prospects, and personal fulfillment.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":40033,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11611","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blogs","entry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11611","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11611"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11611\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":42289,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11611\/revisions\/42289"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/40033"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11611"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11611"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/foresttrailacademy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11611"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}