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Start without a diploma

No high school diploma or GED? You can still build a good career. Here is how to take the first step, and what you can start right now.

Step 1: Earn your high school equivalency

A high school equivalency credential, such as the GED, counts like a diploma for most jobs, colleges, apprenticeships, and financial aid.

  1. Find a free class

    Adult education programs help adults study for the test, and many are free. Most also offer reading, math, computer, and English classes. You can find programs near you on the National Literacy Directory (opens in a new tab), or ask your local community college or library.

  2. Find out which test your state uses

    Most states use the GED, which has 4 subject tests: math, reading and writing, science, and social studies. Some states use the HiSET, which has 5. Some states offer both. You can usually take one subject at a time. Check your state's rules at ged.com (opens in a new tab) or hiset.org (opens in a new tab).

  3. Plan for the cost

    Prices depend on your state. All four GED tests often cost about $105 to $200 in total, and all five HiSET tests about $90. Some states and adult education programs lower the fee or pay it for you, so ask first. In most states you must be at least 16, and some have extra rules if you are under 18.

  4. Take the test

    You can test at a test center. In many states, you can also take the GED online at home if you pass the official practice test first and have a computer with a webcam.

You don't have to wait to start

Train while you study

Some community colleges and adult education programs let you work on your GED and job training at the same time, such as welding, health care, or manufacturing. These are often called career pathway or "integrated education and training" programs. Ask your local adult education program if they offer one.

Start a short certification

Some entry-level credentials don't require a diploma, such as a food handler card, ServSafe, OSHA 10 safety training, or forklift operator training. Rules vary by program and state, so ask before you pay. See certifications for more ideas.

Know which doors need a diploma

Most college degree programs, many apprenticeships, and most military branches require a diploma or high school equivalency. Earning yours opens all of these doors at once.

Paying for training without a diploma

You may still qualify for a federal Pell Grant, which you don't have to pay back. A rule called Ability to Benefit lets students without a diploma get federal aid if they enroll in an approved career pathway program and do one of the following:

  • Pass an approved reading and math test
  • Complete 6 college credits (or 225 clock hours) first, paid some other way
  • Qualify through a process approved for your state

Starting in 2026, Workforce Pell grants can also help pay for short job-training programs that last about 8 to 15 weeks, and Ability to Benefit can apply to those too. Not every school offers these programs, so ask the financial aid office: "Do you have an eligible career pathway program, and do you accept Ability to Benefit students?" You'll apply with the FAFSA at studentaid.gov (opens in a new tab).

Watch out for diploma scams. Some websites sell "online diplomas" based on life experience or a quick quiz. Employers and colleges don't accept them. A real high school equivalency comes only from your state's approved test or an accredited adult high school program.

Make your plan

In the career planner, choose No high school diploma or GED yet as your education. Your plan will include earning your equivalency, programs you can start now, and ways to pay. Want a person to talk it through with you? Our MByAy! coaches can help.

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