Is a 14-Year-Old Prepared for College with a GED?

The question of whether a 14-year-old can take the GED and start college is becoming increasingly relevant as more young students seek ways to accelerate their academic pursuits. The availability of resources such as dual enrollment programs and alternative educational pathways has made this possibility more viable.

GED Eligibility and College Admission

While most states allow individuals to take the GED test at the age of 16, some permit younger individuals to do so with parental consent or under specific circumstances. However, even if a 14-year-old is allowed to take the GED, they must still navigate the college admission process. Many colleges accept GED holders, but the criteria for admission can vary widely. Some institutions may require additional documentation such as letters of recommendation or evidence of readiness for college-level work.

High School's Role in College Preparation

While not strictly necessary, high school plays a crucial role in providing valuable social experiences, extracurricular activities, and foundational skills that are beneficial for college and beyond. Skipping high school can mean missing out on these opportunities. However, for students who are academically ready for college, it is essential to consider their emotional and social maturity. College can be significantly different from high school in terms of these aspects.

Alternative Pathways to College

Some students pursue dual enrollment programs that allow them to take college courses while still in high school. This can be a great compromise for students who are eager to begin their college education. These programs not only provide college credit but also allow students to explore their interests and academic strengths earlier in their educational journey.

Personal Experience and Challenges

The author of this piece has faced a common challenge: having kids under 16 with some college credits who are unable to take the GED unless they are 16 or older. This situation creates a catch-22, as they cannot start taking college classes without a GED. The costs of these college classes, especially for dual enrollment programs, can be substantial. The author is seeking solutions to help these students start taking college classes earlier, prioritizing their education and academic advancement.

In other states, a 14-year-old is not yet eligible to take the GED or the HiSET. However, they can still attend college and accrue college credits, work many entry-level jobs, and participate in extracurricular activities. The key is to understand what the local college or community college requires in terms of "ability to benefit." This often involves proving college readiness through standardized test scores, typically around 300.

Preparing for College

If a 14-year-old is not academically ready for college, it is recommended that they focus on improving their reading and math skills. Instead of paying for remediation, students can invest their time and resources into foundational skills that will better prepare them for college-level work. For students planning to earn a degree from a state school, investigating CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) test credits can be a cost-effective and time-efficient way to earn up to half of their degree. Keep in mind that many private colleges may not accept CLEP credits.

Conclusion

While it is possible for a 14-year-old to take the GED and start college, it requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. Alternative educational pathways and dual enrollment programs can help in making this transition smoother. Understanding the local college requirements and exploring options such as CLEP test credits can also be beneficial. Ultimately, careful planning and preparation are key to ensuring a successful transition into college for young students.