When you are incarcerated, it might be difficult to imagine a future for yourself. If you didn’t finish high school, your job opportunities may be limited. One thing that you can do to improve your chances of success after release is to earn your high school equivalency diploma.
The Importance of Getting Your High School Equivalency Diploma
Studies show that people with a high school diploma are more likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and be less likely to commit another crime than those who do not have a high school diploma. Plus, it can help raise your self-esteem and enable you to set and achieve goals.
- Job Requiements: Most jobs, including many entry-level jobs, require a high school diploma or equivalent.
- More Money: People with a high school diploma or equivalent typically earn more than those without.
- Additional Education and Training: A high school equivalency diploma can also help you get into college or other post-secondary education programs. This can lead to even higher paying jobs and more opportunities for advancement.
Some Jobs People Can Get with a High School Equivalency Diploma
- Retail associate
- Customer service representative
- Administrative assistant
- Data entry clerk
- Truck driver
- Warehouse worker
- Construction worker
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Mechanic
How to Get Your High School Equivalency Diploma
There are many resources available to help you get your high school equivalency diploma. Depending on where you live, you will need to take either the GED® test or HiSET® exam. Many programs offer free or low-cost classes, tutoring, and other support services. Preparing for and passing the GED or HiSET can improve your chances of success after release from prison.
The GED test is a four-subject high school equivalency test that measures skills required by high schools and requested by colleges and employers. The four subjects are Science, Social Studies, Mathematical Reasoning, and Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA). The GED test is available in a computer-based format.
The HiSET exam is a five-subject high school equivalency test conducted online that enables you to demonstrate your college and career readiness by measuring your academic skills and knowledge relative to a high school graduate. The HiSET exam is available in computer- and paper-based formats in English and Spanish. The five content areas are Language Arts–Reading, Language Arts–Writing, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science.
There are many resources available to help you right here on this site, including information on adult education centers and testing by state.
