Wondering what “high school or equivalent” really means on college applications and job postings? You’re not alone – and this helpful guide will explain everything in detail.
Let’s start with a clear overview answering the key question…
In simple terms, “high school or equivalent” refers to completing a secondary school education through either:
- A standard state-issued high school diploma certifying graduation
- Alternate credentials like a GED or HiSET certifying academic competencies similar to a diploma graduate
So whether you finish traditional high school, pass an equivalency exam after dropping out, earn a homeschool diploma, etc. – you can still meet the baseline “high school or equivalent” academic benchmark through multiple paths.
Having this baseline qualification unlocks opportunities for college, skilled trades training, military enlistment and open job positions.
For context, approximately 650,000 students actively drop out of US high schools every year without earning a diploma, according to the Department of Education.
However, over 700,000 youth and adult learners earn alternate credentials annually by passing high school equivalency exams:
As the graph above shows, demonstrating equivalency is a growing and legitimate alternative pathway – especially for those who struggled through traditional schooling.
Now let’s explore specifics on the different options to prove “high school or equivalent” completion…
Meeting Equivalency Requirements
Several options exist to demonstrate high school academic competency equivalent to traditional diploma graduates:
GED High School Equivalency Exam
The GED exam is the most widely adopted and accepted equivalency test, with all 50 states and over 3,200 colleges recognizing the credential.
The computerized test thoroughly evaluates comprehension of core high school-level subjects:
- Over 95% of employers consider GED graduates on par with standard diploma holders
- Pass rates typically range 51-71% varying by state difficulty
HiSET High School Equivalency Exam
Similar to the GED test, passing the HiSET exam demonstrates acquisition of academic abilities equal to a high school graduate.
HiSET assesses five subject domains through a standardized test format:
- Adopted as an exam option in a growing number of states
- Pass rates average 60-75% depending on location
TASC High School Equivalency Exam
The TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) functions as another alternative standardized test leading to a high school equivalency credential.
The TASC measures competency across core academic content areas like:
- Typically taken when GED or HiSET exams aren‘t available in one‘s state
- Has demonstrated pass rates between 60-80%
State-Specific Equivalency Exams
Some states offer their own custom competency evaluations. For example, California has the CHSPE exam and New York the TASCTM test rather than the GED, HiSET or TASC.
These state-specific tests all serve the purpose of documenting academic knowledge on par with a regular high school diploma graduate.
Be sure to research tests accepted in your state as pathway to proving equivalency.
Homeschool Diplomas & Portfolios
Over 2 million students are now homeschooled in the US, completing self-directed academic work guided by parents, online curricula or tutors.
Homeschooled students can prove equivalency to traditional high school completion through:
- Diplomas certifying completion of state-approved course curriculum
- Portfolios documenting learning across expected competency areas
How Homeschool Portfolios Demonstrate Equivalency
Well-organized homeschool portfolios provide clear evidence of attaining knowledge and abilities comparable with traditionally schooled students. Evaluated contents typically include:
- Curriculum scope & sequence documents listing subjects studied
- Course descriptions outlining learning objectives, texts used and concepts covered
- Graded tests, essays and projects showcasing abilities
- An evaluator certification validating the portfolio equates to expected high school competencies in the state
Now that you understand the different routes to equivalency credentials, let’s explore specifics on navigating the exam process…
Preparing for & Passing Equivalency Exams
First, familiarize yourself with general subject areas covered to begin targeted prep study:
Math
- Algebra, arithmetic, geometry
- Mathematical calculations
- Graphs, symbols
Reading
- Reading comprehension
- Critical analysis
- Inference making
Writing
- Clarity of expression
- Structured ideas
- Proper grammar
Science
- Scientific principles
- Applying scientific method
Social Studies
- History knowledge
- Geography
- Civics
Next, leverage available learning resources to brush up weaker areas:
-
Official GED Website – Free prep tools, content guides, practice tests & exam registration
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HiSET Resource Center – Study companions, learning tutorials, full practice exams
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TASC Info Hub – Content overviews, sample test questions and more
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KhanAcademy – Thousands of high quality video lessons & exercises
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Local Schools – Many adult education centers and community colleges offer in-person and online test prep classes
Finally, schedule your exam through approved testing centers in your state. Arrive rested, focused and ready to do your best!
You’ve got this! With consistent preparation, passing is absolutely achievable to earn your equivalency credential.
How Colleges View Equivalency Credentials
You may be wondering if colleges accept equivalency exams like the GED or HiSET rather than standard diplomas…
The answer is an emphatic yes! College admissions teams absolutely recognize alternate pathways demonstrate the baseline academic competencies needed to succeed in higher education.
Certain highly selective colleges do still prefer traditional diplomas. But most welcome diverse learner backgrounds – acknowledging the grit and determination displayed in overcoming challenges to pass equivalency exams.
However, students with equivalency documentation instead of regular diplomas may need to strengthen other aspects of college applications like:
✅ SAT/ACT Test Scores – Solid scores indicate college-ready abilities
✅ Getting Good Grades Starting in Community College – Shows you can excel taking college coursework
✅ Accentuating Relevant Experience – Highlight work, specialized skills training, portfolio projects etc. rounding out your story
In short, earning an equivalency credential does not close doors to higher education or limit your potential!
Why Employers Require “High School or Equivalent”
You’re likely wondering why so many employers making having a diploma or equivalency a firm job requirement – even for entry level roles.
There are important reasons for this:
-
Foundational Literacy & Math Skills – Needed for workplace safety, accurately processing data, instrumentation etc.
-
Accountability & Work Ethic – Earning equivalency shows grit to complete lengthy exam prep displaying valued discipline
-
Trainability – Diploma & equivalents prove baseline abilities to uptake new technical capabilities through employer training
While fast food and some retail/service roles may not mandate specific education credentials, nearly all white collar, technical, civil service and skilled trade careers require minimum “high school or equivalent” qualifications.
However, equivalency exams pose no disadvantage compared to standard diplomas. Both document core academic competency, signaling readiness for occupational training to gain specialized abilities.
Supplemented by stackable workplace credentials, certificates, apprenticeships etc. professionals with GEDs or other equivalents can absolutely build lasting, well-compensated careers.
If you still have some questions about navigating the world of high school equivalency exams, here are answers to frequent concerns:
Can I still join the military if I have an equivalency exam instead of high school diploma?
Yes, you can still enlist in any military branch with a passing GED or other equivalency score. Each branch has its own policies, but alternatives to regular diplomas are widely accepted.
Which states make earning a GED or HiSET completely free?
Currently the states of New York, Tennessee and Iowa offer high school equivalency exams at no cost to participants. Other states significantly subsidize costs to various degrees.
How long does it take to prepare for and pass a high school equivalency test?
With focused consistency, most learners are ready to pass their equivalency exam after about 60-100 hours of quality preparation over 2-6 months. But more preparation never hurts!
Can I still qualify for financial aid if I earn college acceptance with an equivalency exam instead of standard high school diploma?
Absolutely! Meeting “high school or equivalent” requirements through passing GED or HiSET exams does not impact eligibility for need-based or merit-based financial aid, scholarships, grants etc.
What percentage of Fortune 500 executives have equivalent exams instead of high school degrees?
It may surprise you that nearly 10-15% of leaders at major corporations completed equivalency exams rather than finishing traditional high school. Their success proves Equivalency poses no limits!
As you can see, high school equivalency exams offer legitimate alternate pathways to traditional diplomas for driven, resilient learners like you.
Let nothing stand in the way of your college dreams or career goals. Commit to consistent study habits and approach your equivalency evaluation with confidence.
You’ve got this! We believe in you.
Wishing you all the best pursuing your bright future. You deserve it!
