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by Leonard Williams

Over 39 million Americans lack a high school diploma or GED, and without that accomplishment, better jobs and higher education aren’t available. The GED is an important options for people who want to better their situations. But they are left with the question: Can I pass?

The benefits of earning a GED are clear. Adults with a GED diploma earn on average $350,000 more during their lifetime than those who never got a high school degree. For those who use the GED as a stepping stone to higher education at a college, university, trade, or technical school, that amount could rise steeply–and they could earn up to a million dollars more in their careers.

The biggest stumbling blocks to earning a GED are usually the same factors that stopped potential GED test-takers from graduating high school. Some had problems at home. Some had to get jobs. Many experienced frustration trying to learn in a traditional school environment. A recent study supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation found the most high school dropouts leave school because they found school uninteresting, boring, and not relevant to their lives. Most of these students had grade point averages of C or better and could have succeeded in school had they continued. (http://www.essentialed.org/thesilentepidemic3-06.pdf)

Many adults expect the same frustrating conditions as high school when studying for the GED test, and often adult learners have even more responsibilities now than in high school: paying rent, supporting a family, and making ends meet.

“The good news,” says Michael Ormsby, president of The GED Academy, “is that, no matter what your situation, you probably can pass the GED with the right preparation.”

One of the most common obstacles students face is being overwhelmed by the idea of having to relearn high school. However, GED test-takers don’t need to learn everything taught in high school to prepare for the GED. The GED tests essential skills. Instead of memorizing the history of Europe or complex math equations, adult learners need to understand basic, fundamental concepts of math, science, social studies, language, and communication. Perhaps most importantly, GED test-takers need the ability to think critically and solve problems. “These aren’t just ’school skills,’” says Ormsby. “These are skills that everyone should have. And everyone can learn them.”

Another crucial obstacle to the GED is that, often, adults who never graduated high school didn’t learn how to learn. Studying alone or attending adult education classes might not be right for many adult learners. Test prep books may be frustrating, and going to classes after a long day’s work may seem impossible. Fortunately, modern technology provides options. Computers and the Internet have changed our lives, and they’re also changing the way we learn. Innovative GED study programs are available online that can help students learn at their own pace. Effective programs usually focus on real-life issues and skills, and they engage learners through an entertaining and simple educational experience.

However, websites that offer a “GED” or “high school” diploma in 10 days or a week through an online test are usually scams. These “diploma mills” charge $200 to $1,000 for a piece of paper that has no value.

The real GED must be taken in person, at a test center. Ormsby recommends that every test-taker make a study plan to prepare. First, interested adults should take a GED practice test to see what skills they need to work on. Then, GED test-takers need to find a study program that allows them to focus on areas they need to improve and fits into their lifestyle and learning style. “Soon, you’ll be on your way to a GED credential, more options, and greater earning potential,” Ormsby says. “Earning your GED does take commitment, but if you want to earn your GED, you can.”

For more information about GED online study programs, visit: www.passged.com