Not having a high school diploma can reduce your chances of getting a good job and will prevent you from getting accepted at many major colleges and universities. However, by simply taking a GED test, you can prove that you have the same knowledge and skills as a high school graduate. This guide is designed to teach you how to get a GED.

Whatever your reason for failing to graduate high school, you may have found that not having your high school diploma has hindered your career or further educational progress. Luckily, you don't have to go back to high school in order to get documentation that proves you are as intelligent and skilled as a high school grad. GED (General Educational Development) certificates are accepted by the vast majority of colleges and potential employees as being equivalent to an official high school diploma.

To get a GED, you will have to take a series of five tests designed to measure your knowledge of:

1. Mathematics
2. Science
3. Social Studies
4. English - reading
5. English - writing (requires a written essay)

• Although you may think that you will have no problem passing the test, your skills in the above subjects and taking tests in general may be rusty, especially if it has been several years since you were in school.

• To increase your chances of passing the GED test on your first shot, do some preparation by:

1. Answering sample GED questions online; sample tests are available at the American Council on Education official site and many other websites
2. Taking a GED prep course; such courses are offered through many educational institutions and, in most cases, can be taken online or in person
3. Getting a GED prep book; several options are available at most book stores

• Once you feel that you are sufficiently prepared to take the GED test, you'll have to first ensure that you meet the requirements. The requirements will vary slightly between states, but, in most cases, you must:

1. Be at least 18 years old
2. Not hold a high school diploma
3. In some areas, you may also have to pay a small testing fee, which is usually between $10 and $80

• To find out whether you qualify, find a GED testing center in your area. There are over 34,000 such centers worldwide, most of which are located in the United States. You can find your closest testing center by using the GED testing center locator on the American Council on Education (ACE) website or by contacting the ACE directly by phone.

• When you are ready, contact your local testing center and schedule your test. GED tests must be administered by a recognized testing center and cannot be taken online. Show up at the appointed time and be prepared to spend several hours taking the test. As is the case when taking any test, try to remain calm and composed, confident in the fact that you have the necessary knowledge to pass the test. You may have to wait several weeks to receive your test results.

• Getting your GED will not only improve your confidence level, but can also greatly improve your career opportunities and chances of getting accepted to most colleges. In most cases, passing the GED will be the equivalent of graduating from high school. All you need to do to become GED certified is take and pass a test administered by a recognized GED testing center.