Ever wondered if you can get into college without a high school diploma? You can!
To welcome non-traditional students, schools across the country have introduced specialized admissions processes, programs, and high school equivalency programs.
Here, we look at the avenues and opportunities available to you. We look at what you need to qualify for admission to a traditional undergraduate degree program and the alternatives you can pursue.
Most universities require a high school diploma or HSE for admission, but students without these certificates have options. Some schools allow you to demonstrate your academic prowess in other ways, such as taking assessments or placement.
Schools may also accept students who plan to work toward their high school diploma or an HSE once enrolled. Students admitted without a high school diploma or HSE may be restricted to specific programs.
Your pick: How to get into college without a high school diploma
Attending a college does not require a high school diploma or HSE.
Not all schools require a high school diploma or HSE for admission.
At some colleges, nontraditional applicants may be admitted by completing an academic skills assessment or placement test. Candidates must receive enough marks for these tests, demonstrating that they can thrive in the undergraduate program.
Choosing this route can save you time from not having to complete your GED or leave high school early. However, you may only be eligible for federal financial aid in exceptional circumstances without a diploma or GED.
Enroll in a community college.
Admission requirements vary between community colleges, but some accept applicants without a high school diploma or GED as long as they are over 18 years old.
Usually, you still need to pass a placement test to be eligible for admission.
Community colleges may also offer career or vocational programs that accept applicants without a diploma or GED. Taking these routes can get you into the workforce faster.
However, to qualify for federal financial aid, students typically need a high school diploma or GED.
Enroll in an adult high school.
Adult high schools allow learners to earn a high school diploma, which will qualify them for college admission and federal financial aid. Program requirements vary but may include a minimum age of 18 and a minimum number of high school credits.
These programs are beneficial because they award approved high school diplomas quickly. Many schools offer low-cost or even Free program and flexible scheduling options, such as asynchronous online classes.
Enroll in college as a non-degree seeking student and take classes.
Students without a high school diploma or GED may take classes as a non-degree seeking student. Many schools allow learners to take certain courses without submitting transcripts.
You can use this training to advance your personal or professional qualifications or to qualify for a college certificate.
Typically, non-degree-seeking students are not eligible for federal financial aid. They may also be limited to courses with no required prerequisites.
Finally, schools tend to stop accepting non-degree-seeking students until all traditional students have signed up, limiting the class options available.
Pursue dual/simultaneous enrollment.
Colleges may offer dual or concurrent enrollment opportunities for current high school students or students enrolled in a GED. In order to be admitted, prospective students need proof of enrollment in a high school or GED program. Candidates may need within a certain number of credits or hours from graduation to be eligible.
Enrollment programs also give you a head start in your university education. While students may not be eligible for federal financial aid, many schools waive training costs or offer substantial discounts.
Take and pass the GED exam.
One of the most common ways for students without a high school diploma to qualify for college is to take and pass the GED exam.
Candidates must be over 16 years old and not currently enrolled in high school. The GED consists of four tests: Math, science, language arts reasoning, and social studies.
Before taking the test, you can take GED courses and practice tests. Entrants can complete the test in sections or all at once at an approved testing center or online. Depending on your results, you may meet college readiness standards or even qualify for college credit.
Take and pass the HiSET exam.
Like the GED exam, HiSET Exam is an equivalent high school diploma that may qualify you for college admission.
To take the test, candidates need to meet the age requirements for their state and not be enrolled in high school.
The HiSET exam consists of five sections: English language arts, math, writing, science, and social studies. The test takes about seven hours. You can take HiSET courses and prepare for the test before taking the test.
Majority Online colleges that accept FAFSA, and most students use federal aid. Based on Federal Student Aidhowever, students are only eligible if they hold a high school diploma or GED, except under certain circumstances.
For example, you may be eligible for assistance if you attend an approved home school. You can also complete as little as six credit hours in a career pathway program.
Alternatives to college – no high school diploma or GED required.
College may not be right for everyone. The alternatives below allow you to get professional training and personal development without attending a traditional university.
Enroll in a trade or vocational school.
Trade or vocational schools often have flexible admission requirements, making them a quality alternative for applicants without a high school diploma or GED.
These schools and programs focus on career-based training and practical preparation for job trade schoolsuch as welding, cosmetology and massage therapy.
Trade schools provide quick and direct access to careers and reduce student debt. On the other hand, programs and career flexibility may be limited.
Earn a certificate or certificate online.
While both certifications and certificates can be useful alternatives for a degree and lead to employment, the evidence is quite different.
Certificates are condensed training programs from colleges and universities that cover majors.
In contrast, a certificate recognizes an expert’s training and specialized knowledge in the field and may be required to practice.
You are eligible for many certifications and certifications without a high school diploma or GED. You can even access free online courses with certificatesincluding IT and business courses.
