Talk to an admissions counselor at your local community college. While most community colleges follow a similar path for applicants without a diploma or GED, you need to understand the specific requirements for your local school. Talk to the counselor about your career goals and ask her what you need to do to make it happen.
Fill out the college application forms. There will be a section where you check what type of student you will be. It's here that you can explain that you don't have a GED.
Take the placement exams. Without a GED, you'll have to take exams that measure your math and English abilities. These tests may only be offered a few times per year, so get your registration in on time.
Register for the GED courses. The community college will ask you to complete courses that prepare you for the GED. You can usually do this in conjunction with taking the required courses for the college degree.
Take the GED exam. After about a year of taking courses at the college, you should be prepared to take the GED exam. Schedule yourself and pass the exam. This is a requirement before you'll be able to earn the college degree.
Complete the degree requirements. You'll need to take a certain number of core classes in addition to the classes required for your major.
Transfer to a four-year college to earn a bachelor's degree. Community colleges only offer two-year associate's degrees. If you want to earn a B.A., you'll need to transfer the credits to the four-year school of your choice.