Yes — you can go to college with a GED. The GED (General Educational Development) diploma is accepted for college admissions by virtually all community colleges, most four-year state universities, and many private institutions in the United States. This guide explains exactly which colleges accept GEDs, how the admissions process works for GED holders, what additional requirements may apply, and how to give yourself the strongest possible application.
The vast majority of accredited colleges and universities in the United States accept the GED diploma for admission. Specifically:
The key principle: the GED is a federally recognized high school equivalency diploma. For most institutions, it meets the minimum high school credential requirement — just as a traditional diploma does. Begin preparing for college-level work with our ged ready practice test resources.
Community college is the most direct and cost-effective path to college for GED holders. All accredited US community colleges practice open enrollment — if you have a GED (or high school diploma), you are admitted. There are no selective admissions for associate degree programs at most community colleges.
Benefits of starting at community college with a GED:
GED College Ready score (165+) at community college: If you score 165 or higher on any GED subject, most community colleges will waive the remedial or developmental education requirement for that subject — placing you directly into college-level courses and saving you time and money. This is a significant advantage for GED holders who score well. Aim for 165+ if you plan to attend community college. Use our ged study guide and aim for this threshold in your weakest subject.
For a fuller set of questions on this topic, see our ged social studies practice test pdf resource.
For a fuller set of questions on this topic, see our ged math test practice pdf resource.
For a fuller set of questions on this topic, see our ged science exactly questions and answers resource.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Validates your knowledge and skills objectively | Study materials can be expensive |
| Increases job market competitiveness | Exam anxiety can affect performance |
| Provides structured learning goals | Requires dedicated preparation time |
| Networking opportunities with other certified professionals | Retake fees apply if you don't pass |
Try these questions from our free GED practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
What is the primary role of the Electoral College in the United States?
Answer: B. To formally elect the President and Vice President
The Electoral College is a body of electors established by the Constitution to formally elect the President and Vice President.
In a food chain, which organism is the PRIMARY producer?
Answer: C. Grass
Producers (like grass) make their own food through photosynthesis. They form the base of food chains and are called autotrophs.
Earth's oceans are subject to tides, waves, and currents. These elements influence how humans interact with the ocean and how ocean water interacts with land. Tides are variations in ocean sea levels that occur on a regular basis. Which of the following factors contributes to ocean tides?
Answer: D. The gravitational pull of the moon on planet Earth
Ocean tides are primarily caused by the gravitational pull exerted by the Moon on Earth's oceans. The Moon's gravity creates bulges of water on both the side of Earth facing the Moon and the opposite side. These bulges result in the rhythmic rise and fall of sea levels that we observe as tides.
What is the primary function of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution?
Answer: C. It protects freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition
The First Amendment protects five fundamental freedoms: religion (free exercise and no establishment), speech, press, peaceful assembly, and the right to petition the government.