Considering the GED for US University Admissions? What You Need to Know

Many people looking to study in the US, especially those who haven’t completed traditional high school, wonder about the GED (General Educational Development) test. It’s often seen as a way to get a high school equivalency credential that can then be used for further education or employment.

In the US, the GED is recognized by most colleges and universities as a substitute for a high school diploma. This means if you’ve passed the GED exams, you can use that certificate to apply to community colleges and even some four-year universities. The test itself covers five subject areas: Mathematical Reasoning, Science, Social Studies, Reasoning Through Language Arts, and an optional Spanish version of Language Arts. Passing requires scoring at least 145 on each test section, with an average score of 150 across all sections. There’s also a GED Ready practice test available, which can help you gauge your preparedness before the actual exam.

For international students, particularly those from Korea who might have completed their schooling via 검정고시 (Geomjeong Gosi – the Korean high school equivalency exam), the GED often serves a similar purpose. While some US institutions might accept the Korean 검정고시 directly, others may require a GED or a credential evaluation service to verify the equivalency. It’s crucial to check the specific admission requirements of each university you’re interested in. Some schools might have dedicated ‘special admission’ programs for students with equivalency credentials, like those mentioned in some Korean education centers that advertise TOEFL-waiver programs for students applying to US universities. However, don’t assume all schools will have these special tracks.

One practical consideration is the language barrier. The GED is administered in English (with a Spanish option). If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to be proficient enough to understand complex academic texts and concepts across various subjects. While some educational centers offer preparatory courses, the GED itself is not a language proficiency test in the same way TOEFL or IELTS is. It tests your knowledge in subject areas, assuming a certain level of English comprehension. There are also age requirements; you typically need to be 16 or older to take the GED, and if you’re under 18, you usually need parental consent and might need to prove you’re no longer enrolled in a traditional high school.

The cost of taking the GED can vary. In the US, the fees are generally around $120-$160 for the full battery of tests, though this can differ by state. International test-takers might face additional administrative fees or need to take the test at an authorized international testing center, which could increase the overall cost. It’s also worth noting that retaking a failed section usually incurs an additional fee, so preparing thoroughly is important to avoid extra expenses.

While the GED opens doors, it’s not always a guaranteed path to the most selective universities. Top-tier institutions often look for strong academic records from traditional high schools, including advanced placement courses and high GPAs. For students coming from a 검정고시 background, demonstrating proficiency through standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, in addition to a GED, might be necessary for highly competitive programs. For example, if you’re aiming for programs like nursing or engineering at renowned universities, having a strong application package beyond just the GED is usually required. Sometimes, starting at a community college like Diablo Valley College (DVC) after obtaining your GED can be a more accessible route to transfer to a four-year university later on, especially if your initial application to a direct university program was unsuccessful.