Obtaining a GED begins with locating one of the several free courses offered nationwide at community colleges and high schools, or on the Internet. Once you register for the course, you should obtain a study guide and take the assessment test that is typically included in the book. Some people need instruction in all five topic areas, while others will only have to brush up on sections where their skills are weak.
The GED is a self-paced program, so you may spend as much or as little time as you want studying before applying to take the exam. Once you are ready for the test, you can find a location via an online search tool located on the website for the American Council on Education (see References). The actual test cannot be taken online and must be completed at an official testing center. You should expect this to be an all-day event as the test takes seven hours to complete.
Some people worry about their ability to attend the college of their choice with a GED versus a traditional high school diploma. While this may have been a problem previously, most community colleges and state universities accept the GED in the same way as they do a high school diploma. However, a handful of private universities may hesitate or refuse to accept an applicant who has a GED. In that case, you can complete coursework at another college or university, and reapply to the private university after demonstrating a proven track record of success completing college-level courses.
If you obtain a GED, you should never feel that your prospects are limited due to the lack of a high school diploma. According to the American Council on Education, a GED is just as acceptable as a high school diploma at 98 percent of the colleges and universities that require a diploma. In addition, 96 percent of employers accept the GED in lieu of a high school diploma. Those who obtain the GED often attain success, both professionally and academically, as hardworking and motivated achievers.