Not having a traditional high school diploma does not have to end your education. Adults who left high school before graduating may have another path: earning a state-recognized high school equivalency credential.
Adult education programs can help people prepare for approved high school equivalency tests while strengthening reading, writing, math, and other essential skills. Some programs can also help participants explore college, vocational training, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities.
These services can be especially useful for adults who have been away from school for years or who need a flexible way to continue their education while working or caring for family members.
Requirements differ by state, so the exact process depends on where you live. Understanding the options available can help you determine your next step.
1. Understand What a High School Equivalency Credential Is
A high school equivalency credential provides an alternative for people who did not earn a traditional high school diploma.
You may be familiar with the GED, but it is important to understand that high school equivalency requirements are established at the state level. States can approve different tests and set their own rules involving eligibility, testing, fees, age requirements, and other conditions.
Depending on the state, an approved assessment may include the GED or another high school equivalency examination.
This is why adults should check their state's current requirements before paying for a test or preparation program.
A recognized high school equivalency credential can be useful when pursuing opportunities that require proof of high school-level education. Depending on the employer, college, training provider, or program, it may satisfy an education requirement that would otherwise require a high school diploma.
However, requirements can vary. If you are earning the credential for a particular job, college, military path, apprenticeship, or training program, ask that organization what credentials it accepts.
2. Adult Education Programs Can Help You Prepare
Preparing for a high school equivalency exam on your own can be difficult, especially if it has been many years since you attended school.
Adult education programs can provide structured instruction and support.
Programs may be available through organizations such as:
- Community colleges
- Local school districts
- Adult learning centers
- Libraries
- Community organizations
- Workforce development programs
- Correctional education programs
Available services vary, but students may receive instruction in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies.
A program may begin by assessing your current skills. This can help instructors determine where you are already strong and which subjects need more attention.
That matters because adult students do not necessarily need the same type of instruction.
One person may be comfortable with reading and writing but need significant help with math. Another may need support across several subjects. A learning plan based on your current abilities can make preparation more focused.
Some adult education providers offer daytime, evening, online, or hybrid classes. Flexible scheduling can be especially valuable for adults balancing education with employment, transportation, child care, and family responsibilities.
3. You May Be Able to Build Career Skills at the Same Time
Earning a high school equivalency credential can be a goal by itself, but it can also be part of a larger education and employment plan.
Some adult education programs connect basic academic instruction with workforce preparation.
For example, Integrated Education and Training programs combine adult education and literacy activities with workforce preparation and training for a particular occupation or occupational group.
This approach may allow eligible participants to strengthen foundational skills while also working toward career-related abilities.
Programs can vary considerably by location. Possible areas of career training may include health care, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, transportation, information technology, or other fields connected to local employers.
Adult learners can also ask about connections to American Job Centers. These centers operate within the public workforce system and may provide employment services, career information, and access to eligible training opportunities.
When exploring a program, ask whether it provides career counseling or partnerships with local community colleges, vocational schools, apprenticeship programs, or employers.
The goal is to understand what opportunities could come after earning the credential rather than waiting until the test is finished to think about your next move.
4. A Credential Can Be a Step Toward College or Vocational Training
Some adults pursue high school equivalency because they want to continue their education.
If that is your goal, begin researching colleges or vocational programs while you are still preparing for the exam.
Admission requirements differ between institutions. Ask the school whether it accepts your state's high school equivalency credential and whether additional placement, admissions, or program requirements apply.
Cost is another important consideration. Students interested in eligible postsecondary education can learn about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly called the FAFSA. The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid and may also be used for certain state and institutional aid programs.
Federal student aid has eligibility requirements, so earning a high school equivalency credential does not automatically mean a student will receive financial assistance.
Depending on eligibility and the educational program, federal aid can include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and federal student loans.
Before enrolling in any college or career school, compare program costs, completion requirements, available financial aid, and the credential you will receive.
You should also investigate whether the credential or training prepares graduates for any licenses or certifications required in the occupation you want to enter.
5. Know How to Find a Legitimate Adult Education Program
Adults searching for high school equivalency options may encounter advertisements promising fast diplomas or credentials with very little work.
Be cautious.
Before paying a provider, verify what your state officially recognizes. A certificate purchased from an unrecognized program may not satisfy the requirements of employers, colleges, or workforce programs.
Start with official state adult education resources. You can also look for programs connected with your state's education or workforce agency.
The U.S. Department of Education's Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education provides information about adult education and literacy programs. CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, can also help people explore education, training, and workforce resources.
When contacting a local adult education program, consider asking:
- Which high school equivalency test does my state recognize?
- Do you provide preparation classes for that test?
- How much do classes and testing cost?
- Are reduced-cost or publicly funded options available?
- Do you offer evening or online classes?
- How long does preparation usually take?
- Can I take a skills assessment before beginning?
- Do you provide career or college planning?
- Are there age or residency requirements?
- What documents do I need to enroll?
Do not be discouraged if you have been away from school for a long time. Adult education programs are specifically designed to serve learners who may have different educational histories, responsibilities, and goals.
Earning a high school equivalency credential is not a guarantee of employment or higher earnings. It can, however, satisfy an important education requirement for some jobs and provide a foundation for further education or occupational training.
Start by checking your state's official high school equivalency requirements. Then look for a recognized adult education provider that can evaluate your current skills and help you prepare.
The credential can be more than the end of unfinished high school education. For many adult learners, it can become the starting point for the next stage of education, training, or employment.
