From GED (General Educational Development) Testing to Postsecondary Education: The Role of Institutions

• In Event: Lifelong Learning From Adult Secondary to Postsecondary Education

Abstract

The GED credential is now a significant gateway to postsecondary education (PSE). Almost a third of GED testing centers in the United States are located in a postsecondary institution. What is the role of the postsecondary institution in testing GED candidates and transitioning them to PSE? This paper connects GED Testing Service data, National Student Clearinghouse Data, and IPEDS data to examine the postsecondary outcomes of GED passers tested through PSE centers and those who did not. The findings will fill in the picture of how and where postsecondary institutions serve this growing group of nontraditional enrollees, to inform both colleges and prospective enrollees with GED credentials as they plan for the future.

Authors

• Wei Song, The Council of Independent Colleges

• Margaret B. Patterson, Research Allies for Lifelong Learning