For most, high school is a huge part of life. But, as simple as passing classes and completing four years of education may sound, we understand that this traditional path isn’t always the route every student will succeed in taking.
There are many reasons a student will drop out before completing their high school education, and thankfully, there are other pathways to success. One pathway on the top of that list – earning a General Educational Development (GED). It’s not as uncommon as you think, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 8.5 million people over the age of 25 have a GED.
So, you have a GED, or are thinking about getting your GED, and want to know: Does it make a difference to employers whether your resume includes a GED rather than a High School Diploma?
The good news: Many employers consider GEDs an equivalent to a High School Diploma.
“Many of the industrial employers we work with don’t care whether an individual fulfilled their education by receiving a High School Diploma or getting a GED. They are seen as equivalent when filling their educational requirement” – Virginia Seiden, Staffing Manager at ETS
The really good news: It’s no surprise that having a GED is prefered over having no high school degree at all. In fact, it not only improves your chances of getting hired but it also increases your earning potential.
The not so good news: Even though there is little to no material difference between the two, some employers still have a negative perception of viewing GED instead of High School Diploma on a resume.
Our Advice: Make sure you are prepared to answer the question “Why did you decided to take the GED instead of getting a High School Diploma?” Show them that you did it for the right reasons, and point to your drive and perseverance to have a successful career.
Want help? Partner with an ETS recruiter!
They’ll act as your personal agent throughout the process. Marketing your unique skills and characteristics to top employers throughout the Champlain Valley. They’ll even discuss your GED with employers for you!
Schedule an appointment with an ETS recruiter today to get started!