How do GEDs impact the college admissions process?

I'm considering getting my GED instead of a traditional high school diploma. Does anyone know how colleges view GEDs during the admissions process? Are there any specific challenges I might face with this route?

Colleges do accept the General Educational Development (GED) credential, and there are many colleges across the U.S that have admitted students with GEDs. In fact, the GED Testing Service reports that over 98% of U.S colleges and universities accept the GED.

However, there are some challenges you might face. Because the traditional high school experience provides students with four years worth of GPA, course rigor and extracurricular activities, it often gives admissions officers a more comprehensive look into a student's academic abilities, commitment, and potential for success in college. The GED test mostly assesses knowledge and skills rather than consistency in performance or involvement in school/community activities, which are attractive qualities to many colleges.

Additionally, a GED may limit your options for college. Not all colleges have the same policies regarding GED holders. For instance, some highly selective colleges may be less likely to admit GED recipients because they prefer to see a full four year high school transcript. Therefore, you'll want to reach out to the colleges you're interested in to find out about their admissions policies for GED holders.

Despite these potential challenges, it's important to remember that colleges also consider other factors in the admissions process such as essays, letters of recommendation, and, at certain schools, ACT/SAT scores (notably Harvard, Yale, Purdue, and others have reinstated the requirement for SAT/ACT scores in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle). Strong performance in these areas can help bolster your application.

If you will be pursuing the GED path, it may also be beneficial to involve yourself in other activities that showcase your interests and commitment, such as vocational or technical training, a part-time job, or community service. This way, even without a traditional high school experience, you can still show a history of sustained involvement and dedication. Remember to always make the decision that is best for your specific situation and future goals.