GED offers a second chance to those who dropped out of high school. Some people take the GED for employment, but for others it is an "I can do it" sense of personal satisfaction. In some states, such as Arizona, GED preparation is available to juvenile offenders who meet age qualifications. Not all employers and educational institutional institutions recognize the GED. Combined with mature-student status -- generally over 21y ears of age -- a GED may be more favorably regarded by colleges and universities.
The GED is recognized all over the world and many countries have a GED affiliation. This also means that Americans with a GED certificate can find work overseas. Not every country offers testing facilities. If you study for the GED in Morocco, for instance, the closest country to take the test is Spain.
Honor GED standing is more favorably accepted than a regular GED. Having an honors GED is regarded by some potential employers and higher education institutions as being equivalent to a regular high school standing. The dual standards limits those who have a standard GED, sometimes hurting their employment opportunities.
The GED is available in both English and Spanish. Consequently, students in Chile who want to study in America may be accepted on the basis of holding a GED. Out of country applicants can qualify to take the GED even if they already have a high school certificate. People who speak languages other than English or Spanish cannot take the GED.
People with jobs generally find the GED a more affordable option than returning to high school. Not all individuals who drop out of high school can afford the study guide or the fee. Unemployed candidates may have the time to study but lack the money to take the test.