South Carolina High School Diploma Program
The South Carolina Department of Education's adult education office was created to assist adults in completing their high school education. Adult education programs and courses are located throughout the state of South Carolina. The length of time required to complete your diploma will depend upon the number of credits you still need to earn. Also, you are not permitted to receive your diploma earlier than the class of students with whom you started high school.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to enroll in an adult education program in South Carolina, you must have previously earned 16 credits toward your high school diploma. In order to take the GED test in South Carolina without exceptions, you must be at least 19 years old. If you are 16, 17, or 18 years old, you must provide proof of having withdrawn from school. If you are 16 years old, a court order letter must also be sent to the GED office in Columbia or you must be under the jurisdiction of DJJ in order to take the test. Students who have previously completed fewer than 16 credits toward a diploma are not eligible for an adult education program, but can pursue the General Educational Development (GED) credential, which is largely equivalent to a high school diploma.
Credit Requirements
To earn your high school diploma, you must earn a total of 24 credits or units. The 16 or more credits previously earned through attending high school could apply to that credit requirement. To earn the needed credits, you might participate in a number of courses, such as:
- English
- Mathematics
- Economics
- U.S. history
- Science
- Computer science
- U.S. government
Exit Exam Information
According to a law passed by the General Assembly, students in South Carolina looking to get their High School Diploma do not have to complete the High School Assessment Program. This law was created April 14, 2014.
Why Get a High School Diploma in South Carolina?
Though it takes time and effort, earning your High School Diploma is worth it. The skills learned while working on your diploma will give you an edge over those who have no diploma, especially in the work force. Obtaining your High School Diploma will also better prepare you for entrance into college, where you can further improve your employability. The Alliance for Excellent Education reports that 60% of jobs require postsecondary education in one form or another.
