The GED is a high school equivalency test for those who didn't finish traditional high school. It allows individuals to show their knowledge through standardized testing. For most homeschoolers, a parent-issued diploma is preferred.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 3.3 million students were homeschooled in the United States as of 2023, representing roughly 6% of the school-age population.
What is the GED requirement?
The GED is a certification showing that you have knowledge equal to a high school graduate. It’s mainly for those who didn’t finish high school the usual way. For homeschoolers, it’s an option but not often needed. When students complete their homeschool program, they get a diploma from their parents. This diploma is accepted by colleges, employers, and the military. The GED is more relevant when a student hasn't fully completed their program or when state laws say so.
When homeschoolers might consider a GED
Most homeschoolers should aim for a diploma instead of a GED. But there are times when a GED makes sense. This includes cases where state laws require it, when a student hasn’t finished their homeschool program, or when they need a quicker route after leaving traditional school. Some states allow GED testing to make record-keeping easier, though this usually isn't necessary with good homeschool records.
The bottom line
For homeschoolers who finish their education, a parent-issued diploma is the best route. It holds the same legal weight as a GED and can help with military placement. Plus, it avoids any stigma that might come with an equivalency certificate. Save the GED for cases where completing a formal program isn’t possible. If you've created a solid homeschool curriculum and tracked student work, that diploma is the right credential for your student.
