Understanding theGED
The General Educational Development (GED) test is an alternative to a high school diploma. It’s designed for adults who didn’t finish high school but want to demonstrate their academic skills. The test covers five subjects: Language Arts (Reading), Language Arts (Writing), Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics.
Why Earn a GED While in College?
Earning a GED while in college can be a strategic move. It opens up more opportunities for scholarships, internships, and job prospects. Here are some reasons why you might consider it:
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Enhanced Eligibility for Scholarships: Many scholarships are only available to high school graduates or those with a GED.
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Improved Job Prospects: Employers often prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED.
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Higher Earning Potential: Studies show that individuals with a high school diploma or GED earn more over their lifetime than those without.
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Personal Achievement: Earning a GED can be a significant milestone and a source of pride.
How to Earn a GED Online While in College
Earning a GED online while in college is possible and can be a convenient option. Here’s how you can do it:
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Choose a Reputable Online GED Program: Look for programs that are recognized by colleges and employers. Some popular options include GED.com, gedtestingservice.com, and gedonline.org.
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Enroll in the Program: Follow the enrollment process, which typically involves creating an account, providing personal information, and paying any fees.
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Prepare for the Test: Use the resources provided by the program to study for the GED. This may include online courses, practice tests, and study guides.
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Take the Test: Once you feel prepared, schedule your GED test. Most online programs offer proctored testing at approved locations.
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Pass the Test: Achieve a passing score on all five subjects to earn your GED.
Benefits of Online GED Programs
Online GED programs offer several benefits, especially for college students:
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Flexibility: You can study at your own pace and on your own schedule, which is ideal for busy college students.
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Convenience: Access your study materials and resources from anywhere with an internet connection.
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Cost-Effective: Online programs are often more affordable than traditional GED programs.
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Support: Many online programs offer academic support, such as tutoring and counseling.
Table: Comparison of Online GED Programs
| Program | Cost | Duration | Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| GED.com | $30 – $100 | Varies | Yes |
| gedtestingservice.com | $120 | Varies | Yes |
| gedonline.org | $50 – $100 | Varies | Yes |
Considerations for College Students
As a college student, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind when earning a GED online:
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Time Management: Balancing your college courses, GED studies, and personal life can be challenging. Develop a solid study schedule to ensure you have enough time to prepare for the GED.
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Financial Aid: Check with your college’s financial aid office to see if you’re eligible for any grants or scholarships to help cover the cost of the GED.
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Transcripts: Once you earn your GED, request an official transcript from the GED testing
