Getting a degree is often seen as a prerequisite for a successful career, but not everyone has had the opportunity to complete high school. This leaves many wondering if it’s possible to earn a degree without a high school diploma. It’s a fair question, especially considering that there are more than 32 million adults in the United States who lack a high school diploma.
Can you get a degree without a high school diploma? Yes, it is possible to earn a degree without a high school diploma. However, it’s important to note that the process may be more challenging and require a bit of extra effort and research.
Many colleges and universities offer alternative pathways to degree attainment for non-traditional students, including those without a high school diploma.
Yes, You Can Get A Degree Without A High School Diploma
Yes, it’s possible to get a degree without a high school diploma. A high school diploma is not a requirement for many colleges and universities. In fact, many schools offer programs specifically designed for students without a diploma or GED.
One way to get a degree without a high school diploma is to obtain a GED.
The General Educational Development (GED) test is a series of exams that measure your skills and knowledge in subjects like math, social studies, science, and language arts. If you pass the GED, you will be awarded a certificate that is equivalent to a high school diploma.
With a GED, you can enroll in a college or university and pursue a degree just like any other student.
Another way to get a degree without a high school diploma is to enroll in a college or university that offers a “college entrance exam.”
Some schools offer tests that can be taken in lieu of a high school diploma or GED. These tests are designed to evaluate your readiness for college-level coursework, and if you score well enough, you may be accepted into the school and allowed to pursue a degree.
Some colleges and universities offer “ability to benefit” (ATB) programs.
These programs allow students without a high school diploma or GED to enroll in a degree program if they can demonstrate the ability to benefit from the education. This typically involves passing an entrance exam or demonstrating competency in certain areas.
Once admitted to the program, the student must complete a certain number of credits before being awarded a degree.
Finally, some colleges and universities offer “life experience” or “work experience” degrees.
These programs award degrees based on a student’s previous work or life experience. This type of degree is typically offered to adults who have been working in a specific field for many years and have gained significant knowledge and expertise.
To receive the degree, the student must document their work experience and pass an examination or evaluation.
High School Equivalency Tests
Yes, it’s possible to earn a degree without a high school diploma. One option is to take a high school equivalency test, which is a series of exams that measure knowledge and skills equivalent to those of a high school graduate.
These tests assess competencies in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies.
There are a few high school equivalency tests:
- GED: General Educational Development Test is the most well-known high school equivalency test. It has four sections, and it costs around $120 to take the exam. It is accepted by 98% of colleges and universities in the US.
- HiSET: High School Equivalency Test is another exam similar to GED. It has five sections, and it costs around $90 to $150 to take the exam. It is accepted by 97% of colleges and universities in the US.
- TASC: Test Assessing Secondary Completion is a relatively new exam that replaced the GED in some states. It has five sections, and it costs around $52 to $72 to take the exam. It is accepted by 95% of colleges and universities in the US.
Once you pass the high school equivalency test, you will be awarded a certificate of high school equivalency, which you can use to apply for college admission.
Community College Pathways
Community colleges can also provide a pathway to a degree for those without a high school diploma. Community colleges offer certificate programs and associate degrees that can lead to higher-paying jobs, and many have programs designed specifically for students who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent.
In addition, many community colleges have partnerships with four-year colleges and universities, allowing students to transfer credits and pursue a bachelor’s degree.
While community colleges typically require a high school diploma or GED, some offer “ability to benefit” programs that allow students without a high school diploma to enroll. These programs typically involve an assessment of a student’s skills and abilities to determine their readiness for college-level work.
Students who successfully complete these programs can then enroll in degree programs at the community college.
One advantage of attending a community college is that they are generally more affordable than four-year colleges and universities. In addition, many community colleges offer flexible schedules, with evening and weekend classes that can accommodate working adults.
Some community colleges also offer online courses, which can be especially convenient for students with busy schedules.
However, it’s important to note that earning a degree through a community college can take longer than attending a four-year college or university. While an associate degree can be completed in two years, students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university may need to take additional courses to meet transfer requirements.
In addition, some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree, so students may need to continue their education beyond the associate level to be competitive in the job market.
Career Training Programs
Career training programs may include courses on specific trades, such as automotive technology or medical assisting. Some programs are also available online, making them more accessible to individuals who are unable to attend traditional brick-and-mortar institutions.
Additionally, these programs may offer shorter completion times, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner than those pursuing traditional four-year degrees.
One important consideration when pursuing a career training program is accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards and will provide a quality education that is recognized by potential employers.
It is important to research programs thoroughly and ensure that they are accredited by a reputable accrediting agency.
While career training programs may not lead to the same level of education as a traditional four-year degree, they can still provide valuable skills and training to help individuals enter the workforce and pursue successful careers.
They may also serve as a stepping stone to further education and higher degrees in the future.
Online Degree Programs
One of the biggest advantages of pursuing an online degree program is that many of these programs do not require a high school diploma as a prerequisite for enrollment. This is because online universities and colleges are more focused on students’ current skills and knowledge rather than their past educational backgrounds.
Online programs also offer a great deal of flexibility and convenience, allowing students to study and complete coursework on their own schedule, making it an ideal option for working adults without a high school diploma.
Online degree programs offer a wide variety of options to choose from, including associate, bachelor’s, and even master’s degrees. Some of the most popular degree programs available online include business, healthcare, education, and technology.
It is important to carefully research and select a reputable online program, as there are many options available that may not be accredited or recognized by employers.
One potential challenge of online degree programs is the lack of face-to-face interaction with professors and peers. However, most online programs offer various communication and collaboration tools that allow students to connect with their instructors and classmates virtually.
Additionally, online degree programs often have dedicated support staff and advisors who are available to answer questions and provide guidance throughout the academic journey.
Overall, pursuing an online degree program can be a viable option for individuals without a high school diploma who wish to obtain a college education. Online programs offer flexibility, convenience, and a wide range of degree options, making it possible for anyone to achieve their academic goals.
Work Experience And Prior Learning Assessment
One option for getting a degree without a high school diploma is to use your work experience as a basis for earning credit toward a degree.
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a process that allows you to earn college credit for knowledge and skills acquired outside of a classroom setting. You can demonstrate your proficiency in a particular subject area by taking a test, presenting a portfolio, or participating in an interview.
PLA is a popular option for adult learners who have acquired knowledge and skills through work experience, military service, or other non-traditional means.
PLA can be a cost-effective way to earn college credit and shorten the time it takes to complete a degree. However, not all colleges and universities offer PLA, and the amount of credit you can earn varies by institution. It’s important to research PLA options at the colleges and universities you are interested in attending to determine whether it’s a viable option for you.
In addition to PLA, some colleges and universities offer competency-based education programs that allow you to earn a degree by demonstrating mastery of specific competencies or skills. These programs may allow you to progress at your own pace and offer credit for work experience and other non-traditional learning experiences.
Work experience and prior learning assessment can be valuable tools for earning a degree without a high school diploma. However, it’s important to remember that not all colleges and universities accept these forms of credit, and the amount of credit you can earn may vary by institution.
Before pursuing this option, be sure to research your options and talk to admissions counselors to determine whether it’s a viable path for you.
Financial Aid Options For Non-Traditional Students
Even if you don’t have a high school diploma, you may still be eligible for financial aid to help pay for your college education. Many colleges and universities offer scholarships and grants specifically for non-traditional students, including those who lack a high school diploma. These awards may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other factors.
Additionally, non-traditional students may be eligible for federal financial aid, including grants and student loans. To be eligible for federal financial aid, you will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA takes into account your income and other financial information to determine your eligibility for different types of financial aid.
If you are employed, your employer may also offer tuition reimbursement programs or other forms of financial assistance to help you pursue your degree. Be sure to check with your HR department to see if your company offers any such programs.
Finally, many private organizations and foundations offer scholarships and grants for non-traditional students. These may be based on a variety of factors, including your field of study, your career goals, or your personal background.
Common Misconceptions About Getting A Degree Without A High School Diploma
There are many misconceptions surrounding the idea of earning a degree without a high school diploma. Some of the most common misconceptions include:
- It is impossible to get a degree without a high school diploma: While a high school diploma is typically a requirement for admission to a traditional four-year college or university, there are still many other pathways to earning a degree.
- It is too difficult to earn a degree without a high school diploma: While it may require more effort and planning, it is certainly possible to earn a degree without a high school diploma.
- The degree earned without a high school diploma is not as valuable: The value of a degree depends on a number of factors, including the reputation of the institution that grants it and the specific field of study. A degree earned without a high school diploma can be just as valuable as one earned with a high school diploma.
- It is not possible to get financial aid without a high school diploma: There are many forms of financial aid available to non-traditional students, including grants, scholarships, and loans. While some forms of financial aid may require a high school diploma or equivalent, many do not.
Conclusion
Obtaining a college degree is a significant accomplishment, but many individuals without a high school diploma wonder if it is possible to achieve it. Fortunately, there are numerous pathways to obtaining a degree without a high school diploma.
High school equivalency tests, community college pathways, career training programs, online degree programs, and work experience are all viable options for those interested in earning a degree.
It is important to note that there are misconceptions surrounding the idea of earning a degree without a high school diploma. Many people believe that it is impossible, but this is simply not true.
With a little research and hard work, anyone can obtain a college degree, regardless of their educational background.
Additionally, there are financial aid options available for non-traditional students, including grants, scholarships, and loans. It is important to research and understand all available options to help finance the cost of obtaining a degree.
It is important to choose the pathway that works best for your individual circumstances. For some, community college may be the best option, while others may benefit from an online degree program or a career training program.
No matter which pathway is chosen, it is important to stay motivated and dedicated to the end goal of obtaining a degree.
Overall, earning a degree without a high school diploma is challenging, but not impossible. With the right resources and mindset, anyone can achieve this significant accomplishment and advance their education and career goals.