A set of tests that, when passed, leads to a high school equivalency credential in the US, accepted by many colleges and employers.

Are there other options?

Yes. Some states use other equivalency tests or alternative routes. Check your state's rules.

Who can take the test?

Generally people who are not enrolled in high school and who meet age and residency rules set by their state.

Through adult education classes, online practice tests, study guides and tutoring, many of which are free or low cost.

Do colleges accept it?

Most US colleges accept equivalency credentials for admission, but check each college and program.

GED and High School Equivalency Explained: Tests, Prep and Next Steps

In the United States, millions of adults left high school without a diploma. Reasons vary: family responsibilities, work, health, moves, schools that did not suit them or simple circumstances. The absence of a diploma can close doors to jobs, training and college. High school equivalency credentials, the best known of which is the GED, exist to reopen them. They are not a lesser option. For many adults, they are the essential first step toward further education or a better job.

Test names, rules, fees and availability differ by state and change over time. This guide uses no figures and is general information. Check your state's official education website for current rules and options.

What high school equivalency is

A high school equivalency credential shows that you have the knowledge and skills typically expected of a high school graduate. It is earned by passing tests, rather than by completing coursework in a school. Depending on your state, the credential may be called a high school equivalency diploma, certificate or credential. The most widely known test is the GED, but other tests are also approved in some states. Each state decides which test or tests it accepts and what the credential is called.

Who can take it

Eligibility rules are set by each state, but common conditions include:

You are not currently enrolled in high school.
You are above a minimum age, often sixteen or older, with extra conditions for younger test takers.
You live in the state, or meet residency rules.
You have not already earned a high school diploma.

Some states have extra requirements, such as a short course or permission from a school for younger students. Check your state's rules. Adults of any age can usually take the tests.

What the tests cover

Equivalency tests generally cover core academic areas.

Area	What it usually involves
Language arts	Reading comprehension and writing, including an essay
Mathematics	Arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data analysis
Science	Reading and interpreting scientific information, basic concepts in life, physical and earth science
Social studies	Civics, history, geography and economics, and reading related materials

Tests are designed to measure skills and understanding, not only memory. They are usually taken on a computer, though some places offer paper versions or other arrangements. You may take the subjects together or one at a time, and you can often retake those you do not pass, within rules.

How to prepare

Many adults study for a few weeks or months. Options include:

Adult education classes, often free or low cost, run by community colleges, libraries and community organizations.
Online practice tests and lessons, which help you identify weak areas.
Study guides and workbooks, available in libraries.
Tutoring and study groups.
Official practice tests, which show the format and difficulty.

Start by taking a practice test to see where you stand. Then focus on weaker areas. Our guide to refreshing study skills after years away offers general techniques that apply here too, and our guide to tech skills refresher for returning students can help if you are not used to online tests.

Costs and free help

Costs vary by state and test.

Test fees are charged for each subject or for the whole set, and differ by state.
Practice tests may have fees, though some are free.
Adult education classes are often free or low cost.
Fee waivers or vouchers are available in some places for people with limited income.
Employers and programs sometimes pay fees.

Ask your local adult education program, library or state education office about help with costs. Be careful of websites that charge high fees for guarantees or that offer diplomas without tests. A genuine credential comes from your state and its approved testing program.

How states differ

States differ in:

Which tests they approve.
What they call the credential.
Age and residency rules.
Where and how tests are given.
Fees and waivers.
Whether a course or other requirement is needed.

If you move, check whether your credential or progress transfers. Most states recognize credentials from other states, but confirm with the receiving institution or employer.

How colleges and employers see it

Most US colleges and many employers accept high school equivalency credentials.

Community colleges generally welcome applicants with equivalency credentials.
Many four-year colleges accept them, though some programs may have extra requirements, such as test scores or placement tests.
Financial aid: equivalency credentials generally allow access to aid at eligible colleges, but check your situation with the financial aid office.
Employers often require a diploma or equivalent for jobs and training.
The military and some training programs have their own rules.

Ask each college and employer about their requirements.

What to do next

Passing the tests is a milestone, but it is also a beginning.

Talk to a college adviser about options. Many community colleges have programs for adults and equivalency graduates.
Think about your goals: work, training, a certificate or a degree.
Explore transition programs that link equivalency to college or job training, offered by some adult education providers.
Apply for aid and scholarships.
Use career services for jobs and training.
Keep your credential safe, and know how to request copies.

Many adults find that earning a credential builds confidence for the next step.

Support and challenges

Adults often face practical obstacles.

Time and money, especially with work and family.
Test anxiety after years away.
Gaps in math or writing.
Technology if tests are online.
Transport or testing center access.

Adult education programs often offer flexible schedules, child care referrals and support. If anxiety is an issue, ask whether accommodations are available, and speak to a counselor.

Other routes

Some states offer alternatives to testing, such as adult diploma programs run by schools or community colleges, or programs that let you earn a diploma by completing coursework or demonstrating competencies. Ask your local adult education provider what exists in your area.

Outside the United States

Many countries have their own equivalency routes and adult qualifications, such as the Access diploma in the UK. If you are outside the US, ask your national education authority or local adult education service.

A worked example

Imagine a woman of thirty-one who left high school at sixteen when her family moved, and who has worked in food service since. She wants to train as a medical assistant. She contacts her local adult education center, which offers free GED classes in the evening. She takes a practice test, finds that math is her weakest area and spends several weeks on it.

She applies for a fee waiver for the test and passes all four sections within three months. She then meets a community college adviser, who tells her about a medical assistant certificate and help with aid.

Using free local classes and an adviser turned a missing credential into a clear path.

Test day tips

Sleep well the night before, eat a proper meal, arrive early with the required identification and bring only what is allowed. Read each question carefully, manage your time and move on if you are stuck, returning later if possible. If you do not pass a section, review your score report, focus on weak areas and plan a retake. Many people pass on a second attempt.

Special circumstances

If you have a disability, ask the testing provider about accommodations, which may include extra time or a different format. If English is not your first language, ask whether tests are available in other languages and whether adult education programs offer language support. Plan ahead, since arranging accommodations can take weeks.

Common mistakes

Using sites that promise diplomas without tests.
Paying high fees for guaranteed pass offers.
Not checking state rules.
Not taking a practice test first.
Giving up after one failed section.
Not planning what comes next.
Not asking about fee waivers and free classes.

A quick checklist

Do I know my state's rules and approved tests?
Have I found a free or low-cost class?
Have I taken a practice test?
Do I know the fees and any waivers?
Do I have a plan for what to do after passing?

Final thoughts

A high school equivalency credential is a real, widely accepted way to reopen doors. Check your state's rules, use free classes and practice tests and avoid scams. Treat passing as a milestone, and plan the next step. For many adults, it is the beginning of a path that they once thought was closed.