High school or equivalent: What's the difference?

Hey everyone, I noticed on some college applications the term 'high school or equivalent' is used. What's the difference between the two, and what situations would they apply to?

Hello! Great question. The term "high school or equivalent" is used to encompass a variety of educational backgrounds that students may have before applying to college. While many students will have attended a traditional high school, some may have completed alternative programs that are considered equivalent to a high school education. Here are a few examples:

1. GED (General Educational Development): The GED is a standardized test that, if passed, results in a credential that certifies a student has met high school-level academic skills. This is an option for those who may have left high school without receiving a diploma.

2. Homeschool: Some students are homeschooled, which means they have received their education outside of the traditional school system, often from a parent or private tutor. Homeschooled students can often receive a high school diploma from their state's department of education or an accredited homeschool program.

3. International education: Different countries have their own educational systems, and what is considered as an equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma may vary. International students often have to provide additional documentation and, in some cases, take additional tests like the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) to demonstrate their educational background is equivalent to a U.S. high school education.

When college applications mention "high school or equivalent," they're trying to ensure that all students, regardless of their specific path, meet a certain level of education before applying to college. This offers flexibility and accessibility for students from different educational backgrounds to pursue higher education. I hope this helps clear up your confusion!