Has someone asked you if you have your GED? Or if you want to get your GED? While these are common questions, they are the wrong questions to ask.
So, why are those questions wrong? A GED can be crucial for employment opportunities, but there are common misconceptions about what a GED actually is.
Why Do Employers Ask for a GED?
What is a GED, and why does it matter? Many jobs and higher education programs require—or prefer—either a high school diploma or the equivalency of a high school diploma to prove you have passed a certain level of education.
By having a high school diploma, or its equivalent, you demonstrate to potential employers that you have the discipline, commitment, and intellect to take on complex tasks in the workplace. One common option for earning a high school equivalency diploma is through General Education Development tests or GED.
However, employers, education administrations, and institutions of higher education incorrectly ask whether an applicant “has their GED.” Proof of a high school credential is essential for many careers and postsecondary education opportunities. However, the GED is a test—not something earned.
When someone asks if you have your GED, what they’re really asking is if you have a high school equivalency diploma. However, if you dropped out of high school before you graduated, you can earn an equivalent diploma through more than just the GED exam; you can also take the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) and the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) to earn your diploma.
HiSET, GED, and TASC scores are mobile, meaning they are valid for employment and college applications throughout the United States. With three options, test takers can now choose which test to take based on various categories, such as price and whether the test is available in paper or computer-delivered formats.
Why should I earn my high school equivalency diploma?
While a job may not require you to have your diploma, earning one has many benefits. If you choose to take classes, study and take either the HiSET or GED to earn your diploma, you can:
- Earn $10,000 more annually
- Qualify for a new job, a promotion, or a pay raise
- Increase employment opportunities
Why Take the HiSET over the GED in Tennessee
If you want to live and work in Tennessee, you cannot take the GED. Instead of the GED, Tennessee offers the HiSET exam.
In 2014, many states began replacing the GED test with the TASC. However, the HiSET is the only high school equivalency test Tennessee offers. The HiSET test provides paper-based and computer-based testing, cheaper testing fees, and fantastic customer service.
High School Equivalency Diploma Courses at Workforce Essentials
To help you prepare for the HiSET, Workforce Essentials provides free test preparation courses so you can brush up on all of the necessary skills required for the test.
Our high school equivalency program is designed to help you quickly pass the HiSET exam, earn your diploma, and advance toward your goals. Our teachers and staff are well-trained to walk you through your journey and help you learn the skills you need to take this step forward.
Our courses are available at several locations throughout Middle Tennessee, so check out our Locations page to find the nearest Workforce Essentials office near you.
For more information about Adult Education, please call us at 1-800-826-3177
