Quote Originally Posted by Twisterdog View Post
If it comes down to the last resort, then he will get one. However, (and I hate to say this, lest I start a GED war), a GED is NOT the same as a diploma, no matter what kids looking to get one are told.

A GED is better than nothing, by a LONG shot. But it is not viewed the same as a diploma, even if it is supposed to be. For example, a community (two year) college will accept a student with a GED, but a regular, four-year college will not. To attend a four-year college, a student with a GED has to first earn an associates degree at a community college, then transfer the Associates degree to the four-year college.

And many employers specifically hire only people with diplomas, not GED's. I'm not sure it's strictly legal, but I've seen it many times in the "Help Wanted" section of our local paper.

ETA: I didn't know you could test for the GED at 15? I thought you needed to be at least 16, but maybe things have changed.

He could pass the GED easily. He scored in the 99% percentile on the pre-test. It's a very simple test. My fifteen year old step-son passed in on the first try, without studying. (NOT with his father's permission, btw, his mother signed for it. ) I'd much rather he get his diploma, he is very close.

Marigold, no problem. It was a logical conclusion, and a thoughtful, caring post.
I'm not sure where you've heard this. I got my GED as a teen, and went straight to a 4-year school. If he is in the 99th percentile then I'm sure he should have no difficulty scoring high on the ACT or SAT which would allow him entrance into any public college.

Though this is just personal experience, I don't think getting my GED as opposed to a HS diploma negatively affected my educational career. I have a Master's Degree and in the fall I am beginning a PhD program at DU.