The General Educational Development (GED) program was established to provide people with an alternative route to attaining something equivalent to a high school diploma. The GED credential is recognized nationwide and serves as a valuable tool for those who may not have completed their high school education through traditional means.
What is GED by 23
The South Carolina Dept. of Education and South Carolina Technical College System (SCTCS) have partnered together to make obtaining a GED more accessible for South Carolina residents. The GED by 23 program allows SC residents to complete a secondary diploma (GED or high school diploma) and assists with the transition into occupational training. According to SCTCS the program will utilize $3.5 million in funding over three years.
How does GED by 23 work?
The GED by 23 program allows SC residents to join a career pathway based on an identified employment need through the technical college system while working towards the completion of a GED or a high school diploma. SCTCS and its colleges will work with local adult education programs and instructional staff statewide to fill gaps in workforce preparedness through GED by 23. Eligible residents can enroll at their local adult education center to complete a secondary diploma and transition into the local technical college with tuition and fees covered through the program.
Upon completing a secondary diploma or two portions of the GED, eligible residents can enroll at their local technical college to receive non-degree occupation training with tuition and fees covered. If someone already has a secondary education credential, they can still enroll in occupational training such as resume creation, interview skills, ServSafe food handler, computer skills, and CDL prep.
View the full list of workforce development courses offered on the Grand Strand at Horry-Georgetown Technical College. (Link: https://www.hgtc.edu/jobtraining/class-search.html) Tuition and fees may be covered for eligible participants.
Who is eligible?
Eligible students must meet the following criteria:
- Complete a high school diploma or GED through one of the 52 South Carolina State supported Adult Education programs between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2024.
- Eligible expenditures include tuition and associated fees for credit and non-credit training programs. There is no maximum award amount for eligible students. Award amounts should not exceed the total costs of tuition, fees, and associated costs.
Both credit and non-credit/continuing education programs are eligible.
Funds are currently available through Sept. 30, 2024.
Why Get a GED?
Obtaining a GED has the following benefits:
- Increased Educational Opportunities: One of the primary benefits of obtaining a GED is the increased access to further education. Many colleges, vocational schools, and training programs accept GED credentials as equivalent to a high school diploma. This opens doors to higher education and allows individuals to pursue advanced degrees and specialized training.
- Enhanced Career Opportunities: A GED credential significantly improves an individual's prospects in the job market. Many employers consider a GED as a minimum requirement for employment, and having this credential demonstrates a basic level of education and commitment. Individuals with a GED are more likely to qualify for a broader range of job opportunities and may experience increased earning potential.
- Personal Development and Confidence: Earning a GED is not just about academic achievement; it is also a testament to personal determination and resilience. The process of preparing for and passing the GED exams requires commitment, discipline, and hard work. As individuals successfully earn their GED, they often experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence, laying a foundation for future success.
- Community and Social Impact: Obtaining a GED not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the overall improvement of communities. By increasing the number of individuals with a high school equivalency credential, communities experience a positive impact on social and economic well-being.
Learn more about registering for the GED by 23 program by visiting hgtc.edu/jobtraining
