High School Diploma and GED (English)

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RTC offers options for students to complete their High School Diploma or GED. Classes are offered in-person and online. The fee is $25 per quarter (waivers are available).

Are you between the ages of 16 and 21? Please explore our Youth High School Completion program.

What’s the Difference Between Earning my High School Diploma and GED?

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Diploma

• Awards a HS Diploma from RTC.
• Credit-based. Each class earns credit towards your graduation requirements. Most students need 20–24 credits.
• RTC will count credits earned at previous schools.
• Once you are in class, your Prior Learning Assessment teacher (PLA) will assess your work and life experience, as well as other trainings/certificates you have to see if it can be used as credit or to build credit. 
• Faster speed than traditional high school but timeline will depend on the amount of credits needed.
• Classes are available either 1) online and asynchronous, or 2) in-person in the morning to afternoon.

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GED

• Awards a GED, considered a high school credential (same as a diploma).
• Test-based. Pass four sections and you've completed: English, Science, Math, and Social Studies.
• RTC provides instruction for any tests you don't pass on your own through support with your teacher.
• Generally, the fastest pathway unless you only need a few HS credits for a diploma.
• The GED is generally accepted everywhere, but some universities and employers may prefer a HS diploma.
• Classes are available either 1) online and asynchronous, or 2) online with optional in-person drop-ins on Tuesday afternoons.

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Steps to Enroll in a High School Diploma English/GED

1. Email startadulths@rtc.edu to get started.
2. You’ll receive a link to complete our digital enrollment forms.
3. After submitting, staff will contact you to confirm your consent before registration. Please respond to the email to get registered.
4. Your first class* will be a short orientation course called HS Success. In this class, you will:
   1. Receive help requesting transcripts from previous schools
   2. Learn the difference between GED and HS+
   3. Choose your schedule

Cost: $25 per quarter (includes orientation class). A tuition waiver is provided in our enrollment forms.

*Returning students, partner referrals, or faculty-referred students may not need to take HS Success.

Need help completing our application? You can join our virtual Welcome Center for support.

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