A GED on a job application proves you’ve got the same high school-level skills as a diploma holder.
How important is having a GED when applying for a job?
A GED gives your job search a serious boost.
No GED? You’re looking at a 35% pay cut compared to diploma holders, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most bosses treat a GED like a diploma—especially for entry-level gigs. Always double-check the posting though; some jobs still insist on a traditional diploma.
How do you indicate GED on resume?
Put your GED in the education section, formatted just like a diploma.
Try this: “High School Equivalency Diploma – General Educational Development (GED), [Your State], [Year Earned].” Different state? Swap “GED” for TASC or HiSET. Simple, clean, and hiring managers get it immediately.
Does a GED mean anything?
A GED stands for General Educational Development, a legit credential that proves you’ve mastered high school basics.
You earn it by acing five tests: math, science, social studies, reading, and writing. Since 1942, over 20 million adults have done exactly that. Hard to argue with that kind of track record.
What do I put under diploma on an application?
Write “High School Equivalency Diploma (GED)” with your state and completion year.
Skip your high school name if you didn’t graduate—it just creates confusion. Already in college or trade school? Once you’ve got postsecondary credits, you can drop the GED from your resume. The U.S. Department of Education insists on clear, straightforward education entries.
Should I put GED score on resume?
Only share your GED score if it’s sky-high (think 95th percentile or better).
Most hiring managers don’t care about the number. If you’re early in your career or gunning for roles that value academic chops, a killer score can make you stand out. Otherwise, just list the credential—employers want proof you finished, not your exact score.
What is the new name for GED?
Several states have ditched GED for HiSET or TASC.
New York, Indiana, and West Virginia now use HiSET or TASC instead. The classic GED still rules most states, but always verify your state’s rules before signing up. The GED Testing Service keeps an updated state-by-state guide.
Can you be a doctor with a GED?
A GED lets you apply to any U.S. college—including med school.
To become a doctor, you’ll still need a bachelor’s degree, a killer MCAT score, and four years of medical school. The Association of American Medical Colleges confirms GED holders are fully eligible. Success comes down to study habits, not your diploma type. Plenty of doctors started with non-traditional credentials.
How much does a GED cost?
A GED usually runs $30 to $150 total for all four tests.
| State/Territory | Cost per Subtest | Total for All 4 Tests |
|---|
| California (HiSET) | $30 | $120 |
| New York (TASC until 2024; now uses TASC legacy) | $20–$50 | $80–$120 |
| Texas (GED) | $36 | $144 |
| Florida (GED) | $32 | $128 |
| Pennsylvania (HiSET) | $25 | $100 |
Need help with fees? Some states offer waivers for qualified test-takers. Check the GED Testing Service or your state’s education site for the latest pricing and waiver info.
Is it worth it to get a GED?
A GED is absolutely worth it—it unlocks jobs, colleges, and training programs.
Over 98% of U.S. colleges accept GEDs for admission. The U.S. Department of Education reports GED grads earn associate and bachelor’s degrees at rates similar to traditional high school grads. Plus, you qualify for federal financial aid. If you’re aiming for education or stable work, the GED is a smart move.
Is getting a GED harder than high school?
Nope—a GED is actually less demanding than a full high school diploma.
High school drags on for four years with classes, attendance rules, and extracurriculars. The GED is a focused exam covering core subjects. About 60% of test-takers pass on their first try, according to the ACT. The real difference? GED prep is self-paced; high school is structured over time.
Is GED worse than diploma?
Some employers and schools still prefer a traditional diploma.
In reality, a GED is just as valid for 85% of entry-level jobs, per Pew Research Center (2023). The gap shows up in competitive fields like finance or government—some roles lean toward diplomas. Always research your target employer’s preferences.
Is getting a GED bad?
A GED isn’t a black mark—it’s a legitimate high school equivalency.
Some folks still buy into the “less than” stigma, but academically, it’s the real deal. The GED Testing Service says 96% of employers accept it. If life got in the way of finishing high school, the GED proves you pushed through and built a better future.
Should I put my high school on my application?
Only list your high school if you actually graduated.
Earned a GED? List that instead. Dropping an unfinished high school can look sneaky. Currently in high school or just graduated? Include it with your expected or actual graduation year. The NACE career guidelines stress honesty and clarity—employers appreciate it.
What should I put for skills on a job application?
Match your skills to the job—start with hard skills, then add soft skills.
- Hard skills: software smarts (Excel, QuickBooks), data crunching, project tools, foreign languages
- Soft skills: flexibility, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, customer care
Mirror the job posting’s keywords. The Society for Human Resource Management says 75% of resumes get filtered by applicant tracking systems hunting for those exact terms.
What should you say reason for leaving a job?
Pick a truthful, professional reason that doesn’t trash your old boss.
- “Looking for fresh challenges and growth” (positive spin)
- “Company restructured and my role was eliminated” (neutral)
- “Moved for family or personal reasons” (circumstantial)
Avoid airing grievances or salary complaints. The Indeed Career Guide says honesty without negativity wins interviews.
