So you’ve passed the GED. Congrats! But what comes next?
Though life after your GED can feel new and a bit overwhelming, rest easy knowing there are wonderful opportunities on the horizon.
Here are the six post-GED opportunities you can look forward to.
1. College
The GED is a widely recognized and accepted certification. Ninety-eight percent of colleges admit individuals with GEDs. So don’t feel like achieving a college degree is out of reach.
If you’d like to pursue a four-year degree, here are a few tips to help you produce a solid college application:
- Reach out to the admissions office of colleges and universities you’re interested in to find out more about their programs and whether the institution will be a good fit for your academic and career aspirations.
- Seek letters of recommendation to impress the admissions team. These can be from a former instructor, employer, or volunteer coordinator. They should be able to highlight your skills, talents, and character.
2. Military
Did you know the GED was originally created for veterans and members of the military?
Joining the military is certainly an option with your GED, and if you didn’t graduate high school, earning a GED is highly recommended for those entering the military.
The military uses three tiers to enlist their recruits: Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. These tiers are divided based on education level, and each level is eligible for different roles and operations.
With your GED certificate, you can be recruited into Tier 2. This tier accepts GEDs. You can get into Tier 1 as well, but you’ll need to earn 15 college credits first. Keep in mind you have to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) first. This exam assesses your skills and what role you’re best suited for in the military.
Joining the military comes with great benefits such as:
- Healthcare
- Housing allowance
- Tuition assistance/scholarships for college
- Retirement benefits
3. Career
As many employers require job candidates to have a high school diploma or GED, your GED will open the door to many more career opportunities.
Even if you aren’t interested in pursuing a college degree, your new diploma can still help you qualify for many jobs. People with GED certificates are more likely to be hired than those who didn’t finish high school. It can even help you enroll in professional training programs that can help you land the job you’ve set your eyes on.
4. Trade School Certificate
Another opportunity after receiving your GED? Trade school.
Trade school, also known as vocational school, offers focused training that prepares you to work in a specific field. This option is ideal if you have a job in mind, seek high-level professional guidance, and want to enter the workforce quickly. Vocational programs typically take up to two years to complete.
There are several different types of trade school programs, such as:
- Medical assisting
- Dental assisting
- Pharmacy technician
- Nursing assistant
- Cosmetology
- Culinary
- Welding
- Electrical
Once you complete these training programs, you’ll receive a certificate, which can help you land the job of your dreams.
5. Work Promotion
Getting your GED shows your boss you’re ready for a promotion. It’s a significant milestone that illustrates your desire to grow and willingness to take on more responsibility. And with more responsibilities come more promotion opportunities and pay raises.
If your current job isn’t something you see yourself doing long-term, now is the time to find other opportunities. Letting prospective employers know you recently received your GED shows aptitude, determination, and hard work. It’s a great way to start a new chapter in your career.
6. Better Outlook on Life
Many people gain a sense of pride and accomplishment upon reaching a milestone like passing the GED. Whether you are the first in the family to receive a GED, being an example to your kids, or are just making a better life for yourself, GED graduates have so much to be proud of.
So whether that path forward means college, the military, or a work promotion, you’ll have a better outlook on both your professional and personal life. Not to mention, there are financial rewards that come with this—those who earn a GED can make about 37.5 percent more than those who don’t have one.
A Stepping Stone to Success
Getting your GED can be a stepping stone to many exciting opportunities. So celebrate this milestone and keep moving forward.
If you haven’t gotten your GED yet but are interested in pursuing this certification, be sure to prepare for the exam and contact us if you have any questions. GED Testing Service is here to help you attain your credential and stay on track.
