Around 30 million adults in the U.S. don’t have high school diplomas, which is a concerning number1. But there’s hope with online high school programs like Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School. This tuition-free path allows adults to get their diploma online. It requires 21.5 credits, which can be done entirely online1.
This program is perfect for adults. It’s self-paced and offers translation tools for those learning English. It also includes free online tutoring and help with planning for college or a career1. You can choose from over 100 courses, covering standard, elective, and college-level options. This means there’s something for everyone’s learning style and interest1.
Key Takeaways
- Nearly 30 million adults in the U.S. lack a high school diploma, but accredited online programs offer a solution.
- Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School is a tuition-free, online high school completion program for adults.
- The program provides self-paced classes, translation tools, and over 100 course options.
- Adult learners can earn an accredited high school diploma while balancing their responsibilities.
- Online high school programs offer flexibility and support services tailored for adult students.
The Importance of a High School Diploma
Earning a high school diploma is key for new chances and growth. You might look at an online ged program, digital high school program, virtual high school classes, or a distance learning high school. Getting a high school equivalency online or online secondary education is very important.
Benefits of Having a High School Diploma
In today’s tough job world, a high school diploma is a must. Over 65% of jobs ask for it.2 In California, diploma holders make $7,307 more yearly than those without a diploma.2 It boosts what you can earn and helps you find better jobs and reach your goals.
Personal Achievement and Career Advancement
Getting your diploma is a big win for you. It makes you feel good and sure of yourself. It can also help you get ahead at work. Many jobs that are higher up want to see you have your diploma.3 This could get you better jobs, better pay, and more chances to grow your career.
Continuing Education Opportunities
Your diploma opens doors for further education. It’s needed for college and more diploma programs. Online alternative high school, adult education online courses, and other online programs can show you new paths and knowledge.3 With a state-approved online high school or regionally accredited online high school diploma, you can do well in advanced classes and move forward with your education.
Online High School: A Flexible Solution
Getting a high school diploma online is perfect for those with a lot on their plate. You learn at your own pace, fitting study time into your schedule however you can. This means you don’t have to choose between your job, family, and studies4.
Self-Paced Learning
One great thing about online high school programs for adults is they let you learn when it suits you. You can study a lot in one go or stretch it out. This way, your education works with the rest of your life4.
24/7 Access to Coursework
Online public high schools mean you can study any time of the day. Whether you choose to study during your work breaks or in the middle of the night, the choice is yours. This is a big plus for adults who are working and going back to finish their education5.
| Program Features | Achieve Virtual | K12-powered Online Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Paced Learning | ✓ | ✓ |
| 24/7 Access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tuition-Free | ✓4 | ✓5 |
| Accredited Curriculum | ✓4 | ✓5 |
| Personalized Learning | ✓5 |
This table shows what Achieve Virtual in Indiana and K12-supported schools have in common. They both let you learn at your own speed and have access at any time. Best of all, it’s all free. The schools with K12 also adapt to how you learn best45.
Accredited Online High School Programs
Reputable online high school programs have the approval of regional and national accrediting bodies. This approval assures that the diplomas and credits from these programs are valuable. They’re accepted by colleges, universities, and companies worldwide. Such approval is important. It shows that the school is dedicated to providing a high-quality education.
This dedication also means that credits can be transferred easily. It helps students access financial aid like federal loans, scholarships, and even military benefits.
Regional and National Accreditation
When you graduate from an accredited online high school program, your diploma matters. It’s acknowledged by top schools and employers.6 Accreditation guarantees that you’ve followed a standard curriculum. This means you’ve gotten a solid education. You might have taken Advanced Placement (AP) courses and NCAA approved classes.7 Acellus Academy, for instance, is accredited by major agencies such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).7
Acceptance by Colleges and Employers
Colleges and employers often recognize diplomas from accredited online high schools. They usually treat them the same as those from traditional schools. The Career Online High School (COHS) for example, offers both a high school diploma and a career certificate. This can be useful for career growth.6 Plus, credits are more easily transferrable. This may cut down on the time you need to complete your education.6
Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School
Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School is your chance to complete high school online, for free. It’s offered by public libraries.1 The program follows national standards and is easy to follow. It’s designed for adults who want to finish high school at their own pace.1
Program Features and Benefits
This online high school doesn’t limit when you learn. You can study any time, fitting it around your job and family.8 It also helps with advising and supports English learners. You can also earn credits from other schools or tests like the GED®.1
Need help? The program offers unlimited online tutoring. It ensures you get the help you need to do well.1 And guess what? You can take up to seven college courses for free. This way, you start on your college path, saving time and money.1
Curriculum Overview
This program’s curriculum covers 21.5 credits. You’ll earn 15.5 academic credits and 6 in electives.1 You’ll study English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Health/PE, and Fine Arts. These are essential subjects.1
Want more courses? You can pick electives in Business, Science, Languages, or Health.1 The program adds new courses often to fit various student needs.1
Finishing High School Online: A Game-Changer for Adults
Many adults find completing high school through traditional ways hard. But, earning a high school diploma online changes things. It offers flexibility and easy access. This lets adults balance their studies with work and family.9 With accredited online high schools, adults reach their educational goals. They find fulfillment and new career opportunities. Plus, they can earn more.
Online education helps adults skip what they already know. This means they can finish faster.9 It’s great for those who’ve been to high school before or learned outside the classroom. Also, adults with a high school diploma earn about $8,000 more each year than those without one. This comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.9
Getting a high school diploma can lead to good jobs, like Insurance Agent and Firefighter. These jobs pay well.9 Besides the money, it feels great to get a diploma as an adult. It boosts confidence and helps overcome past disappointments.9
C4L Academy gives adult high school diploma programs online. After, you’re a certified high school graduate.9 Also, those who graduate high school earn 22% more on average. This info is from the National Center for Education Statistics.10
| Career | National Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Insurance Agent | $209,448 per year |
| Transportation Inspector | $74,453 per year |
| Hotel Manager | $54,593 per year |
| Firefighter | $47,296 per year |
| Gaming Manager | $35,630 per year |
The Arkansas Adult Diploma Program Act (Act 546) now helps Arkansas residents 21 and older finish high school for free.10 To join, you must live in Arkansas, be 21 or older, and not have a diploma.10 Grad Solutions offers this program. It leads to better job opportunities and more earnings. Each student gets a personal mentor. This mentor helps with support and resources.10 The program is all online. You need a computer and internet for your classes and to talk to your mentor.
Success Stories of Adult Learners
Getting a high school diploma online changes adults’ lives. It gives them new chances and grows personally. Rhonda and Kylee’s tales with the Penn Foster online program are a big motivation.
Rhonda and Kylee’s Journey
Rhonda started unsure about online high school for Kylee. But, after checking out her options, she picked Penn Foster’s accredited program. Kylee aimed to enter the military and needed to finish school fast.
A Navy recruiter told Rhonda Penn Foster was good for that. Thanks to Penn Foster’s flexibility, Kylee graduated early. Now, she’s closer to achieving her dreams.
Overcoming Doubts and Achieving Goals
Rhonda’s journey with Penn Foster shows how adults can beat their worries and succeed through online learning. Even if she was unsure at first, Rhonda discovered the benefits of the program. These included flexibility and the possibility to graduate early.
Kylee did great in the program. She liked that she could learn at her own pace. This success story shows how online high school can work well for adults and their children. It encourages others to think about it as a real choice.1112
Balancing Work, Family, and Education
Juggling work, family, and studies is hard but doable. Adult learners must manage their time well. Online high school programs make this easier by allowing flexible study hours. Adults can learn when it suits them, like during breaks or at night. They can choose how much time to spend each day. This flexibility is a big help.1314
Time Management for Adult Learners
For adult learners, setting a schedule and goals is key to time management. It helps them keep up and avoid stress.15 It’s also important not to put tasks off, especially if they work full time. Doing things early can make life easier.13 Being organized is crucial for handling work and study tasks. Using planners or calendars can keep things on track.13 When you have many things to do, setting priorities is a must.14 And to stay motivated, it helps to connect with others via study groups or forums.15
Online classes require a lot of study time. For every hour in class, plan to study two hours a week.14 Look for small bits of time to study, like during lunch breaks. Balancing everything can be tough and may lead to stress.15 Taking breaks and caring for yourself can help reduce this stress. Remember to sleep well, eat right, and exercise. This is crucial for feeling good while managing so much.1513
Support Systems for Success
Having support is vital for adult learners. Online programs may offer services like tutoring or counseling. It’s also important to talk openly with family and employers about your needs.15 Setting clear boundaries and expectations is key.13 Family and friends can provide much-needed encouragement. They are crucial for maintaining a good work-life balance.14
Online tools such as Google Drive can be great for organizing tasks.15 Support from various systems and people can help adult learners overcome obstacles. With the right help, they can focus and achieve their diploma.
Financial Considerations and Funding Options
Many adults worry about the cost when thinking about going back to school. Choosing an online high school can be cheaper. You save money on things like travel and child care. Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School offers free tuition, so getting your diploma is more doable.
Cost Comparisons
Costs for online high school can be from below $1,000 to almost $20,000. A real diploma from a good online school is usually priced from $1,500 to $5,000.16
Some online classes are pricey, but signing up for a full program can be more cost-effective. It’s important to hunt for the best prices. Make sure you compare your options carefully.
If you’ve taken high school classes before, you might be able to use those credits. This could save you cash. Online schools can make it easier to finish high school for less money.16
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Some online schools are free, but others require payment. If you have to pay, there are ways to get help. Scholarships and financial aid are out there for adults going back to school.
The first step is filling out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for federal aid.17 Online students are usually treated like those on campus. This means you can get the same help from the government, state, and schools.17
Looking for scholarships and financial aid early is key. These can cut your costs a lot. FAFSA starts on Oct. 1 and ends the following June. However, do apply early to meet other deadlines.17
Online students can get aid like work-study, grants, and loans. But, where they live can affect what aid they get.17
Your income might also change what aid you can receive. Don’t think you’re not eligible without checking first.17
Some help, like certain scholarships, might only go to on-campus students. Be sure to find out exactly what’s available for online students.17
There are work-study jobs online too. Depending on where you live and what’s available, they could be an option.17
GED vs. Online High School Diploma
Thinking about earning your high school diploma as an adult has two main routes: getting a GED or earning it online. Both let you go to college or find work, but they work differently.
Differences and Similarities
An online high school diploma program covers the full high school curriculum. It also helps with problem-solving and time management. But, you don’t need to take a timed test to get it.18 On the other hand, a GED is earned through a timed test on what you would learn in high school. But it doesn’t involve studying all the subjects together.18
You can take the GED test if you’re at least 16 and not in high school. But, wanting a diploma is enough for an online high school diploma.18 Getting ready for the GED usually takes 3-8 months, with tests on math, social studies, reading, science, and writing. Online programs offer different study plans and needed course credits.18
To pass the GED, you must do better than 60% of grade-12 students. High school diplomas come with GPAs, which can help with getting into college.18 Employers may see high school diplomas more favorably than GEDs. They value the extra effort and broader education.
| GED | Online High School Diploma |
|---|---|
| Timed exam | Full curriculum, self-paced |
| Minimum age requirement of 16 | Available to individuals of any age |
| Considered Tier 2 education by the military | Recognized and accepted by colleges and employers |
| 40% drop nationwide since 2012 | Varying credit requirements and course structures |
Choosing the Right Path
The choice between a GED and an online high school diploma depends on what you need and what you want. For those looking for flexible learning that covers all of high school, online might be best. It’s self-paced and gives you the skills you need, with a diploma that’s well-regarded.18
If you’re looking to get a diploma quickly and time is an issue, the GED is a good choice.18 What really matters is thinking about what fits your style, goals, and time best.18
Getting Started with Online High School
The journey to get your high school diploma online is simple and open to everyone. You can look into programs that are recognized, check what you need to join, and sign up online or talk to the school. You might also need to provide past grades or do certain classes first19. But make sure you know exactly how to join the program you want. Get all your documents ready before you apply.
Enrollment Process
Joining an online high school is usually easy. Just find out about the programs, see what’s needed to enter, and sign up online or get in touch with the school. You might need to show your old grades or do some classes first19. It’s really important to know the exact steps for the program you choose. Have all your documents and info ready from the start.
Credit Transfer Options
Online high schools often let you move credits from other high schools, homeschools, or from parts of the GED®, HiSET®, or TASC tests that you passed. This means you might not have to do as much work to get your diploma1920. When you’re signing up, ask how credit transfer works and send in your old grades or test scores. Bringing in credits you’ve already earned can cut down the time and cost of your education.
Conclusion
Earning a high school diploma online is a great choice for adults facing education challenges. Programs like Excel High School let you study at your own pace. They’re available 24/7, so fitting studying around your job and family is easier21. This opens the door to better jobs, higher pay, and personal pride.
Excel High School has a top-notch team of teachers who know how to do online learning right. This school isn’t just about getting your diploma. It’s also about getting ready for college, with many grads moving on to top schools. Plus, you can start earning college credits early21.
Looking into schools like Excel High School, how to pay for it, and success stories can motivate you. With a full accreditation, the school helps its grads get into great colleges. It’s a step towards a brighter future.
FAQ
Why is earning a high school diploma important for adults?
A high school diploma is key to better career chances and more money. It’s necessary for over 65% of jobs. Those with a diploma make about 26% more each year than those without.
What are the benefits of online high school programs for adults?
Online programs let adults earn their high school diploma on their own time. This is great for juggling work, family, and school. With 24/7 access, learning fits into any schedule.
How important is accreditation for online high school programs?
Accredited online programs are trusted and their diplomas are widely accepted. They’re key for college, jobs, and financial aid. Accreditation ensures your hard-earned credits are recognized.
What is Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School?
Gale Presents: Excel is a tuition-free online program available through public libraries. It lets you earn a high school diploma on your terms. You get to learn at your own pace, with support every step of the way.
How can earning a high school diploma online be a game-changer for adults?
Online diplomas are life-changing for many adults. They provide a flexible path to education. This leads to better job opportunities and personal satisfaction.
How can adult learners balance work, family, and education?
Managing time well is crucial when balancing work, family, and school. Online programs fit your schedule, not the other way around. A strong support network is also vital for staying on track.
What are the financial considerations and funding options for online high school?
Online schools can save you money, and some are even free. If you need to pay, there are scholarships and other aid for adult students. It’s worth exploring your options.
What are the differences between a GED and an online high school diploma?
An online diploma offers a full high school experience without timed tests. By contrast, the GED tests high school knowledge in a shorter exam. They both help with college and work, but a diploma has a richer learning experience.
How can adults get started with online high school?
To begin, find a respected online program and check their requirements. You can apply online or directly through the school. Many programs also let you transfer previous credits or test scores.
Source Links
- https://www.gale.com/elearning/excel-adult-high-school
- https://www.uscareerinstitute.edu/online-high-school/california-online-high-school
- https://www.dwight.edu/dwight-global-online-school/about/online-learning-blog/the-importance-of-an-online-high-school-diploma
- https://achievevirtual.org/online-high-school/free-online-high-school/
- https://www.k12.com/online-public-high-school/high-school-diploma/
- https://lacountylibrary.org/diploma/
- https://www.acellusacademy.com/online-high-school/
- https://www.gale.com/public/adult-online-learning
- https://www.c4lacademy.com/high-school-diploma-for-adults
- https://www.iwantmydiploma.com/arkansas/
- https://newfuturesanmateo.com/adult-education-success-stories/
- https://educateandelevate.org/adult-learner-success/
- https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/how-to-balance-work-and-school
- https://acu.edu/2019/08/17/how-to-balance-work-life-and-online-school/
- https://dlsii.com/blog/how-to-balance-family-work-and-school-while-taking-online-college-courses/
- https://www.uscareerinstitute.edu/online-high-school/how-much-does-it-cost
- https://www.usnews.com/higher-education/online-education/articles/financial-aid-for-online-programs-what-to-expect
- https://www.theamericanacademy.com/blogs/guides/ged-vs-online-high-school-diploma
- https://www.connectionsacademy.com/program/curriculum/online-high-school/diploma/
- https://www.k12.com/online-public-high-school/
- https://www.excelhighschool.com/florida-online-high-school-diploma
