Finishing a diploma or preparing for the GED in Utah

If you are going back to finish high school, the first question is not where to book a test. It is which route fits the work you have already done and what you want to do next. Utah offers more than one, and they are not the same process.

Start with your goal and your old credits

The State Board of Education sorts adult education into three kinds of instruction: basic reading, writing and math; adult secondary classes that lead to an Adult Secondary Diploma; and English-language classes. It says high school or adult-education credits you earned earlier may count toward a diploma, within state and local requirements. ^[1]

So bring any transcripts you have when you talk to a program. Do not assume old credits are worthless, and do not assume every one will transfer. ^[1]

Two routes to a credential

Utah test-takers who pass all four GED subject tests receive a Utah High School Completion Diploma. Finishing the credit requirements through an adult secondary program is a different route to a diploma. ^[1][2]

Neither guarantees admission to a school or a job. Ask the college, employer or training program you have in mind which credential and paperwork it wants. That advice is ours, not the state's, and we do not know any particular institution's policy. ^[1][2]

Expect local schedules, not one statewide timetable

The state board points learners to a local counselor for a transcript review and an individual graduation plan, and says class hours and lengths vary by program. ^[3]

As one example, Granite School District's Granite Peaks Learning Center runs a Credit Diploma program year-round, entirely online, with open enrollment. Students who need the registrar to send transcripts fill out a request form. That describes one program, not every Utah provider, so confirm current enrollment and support with whichever program you choose. ^[4]

Ask about help with costs

Workforce Services says it may be able to help pay for adult-education registration, credit-recovery materials, the GED test and study resources, and tutoring and coaching. That is a possible source of help, not a promise that you qualify or that a particular bill will be covered. Apply through DWS and get a decision before you count on it. Our Utah job-search guide walks through that process. ^[5]

Questions for your first conversation

Which credential am I working toward? Which of my credits count? What assessments or orientation come first? Will the schedule work with my job and transportation? What do instruction, materials and testing cost, and what help can I apply for? How do I get my final credential or transcript? These are our suggestions, not required paperwork.