Dear Helping Hand,

I’m an adult who never graduated from high-school. Can I get my high-school diploma at home?

Answer:

There are many schools out there that not only work with high-school age students but with adults as well.

Here are some things to keep in mind while you search:

	Can I use any previously earned transcripts toward this diploma?
	Is this school accredited? By whom? This may or may not be important to you, but you should be aware of the school’s credentials before you shell out your hard earned cash.
	How much flexibility does this school offer? Am I limited to a certain time frame when completing the work? How does this fit in with my current schedule?
	Can I earn any credits for real-life experience?
	Can I take just one or two courses at a time or do I have to register for a full slate?
	Are the courses traditional textbook-based or do I have some leeway in creating my own course of study based on personal interests and abilities?

Some of your choices may be based on your reason for wanting to earn a diploma at home. Are you trying to get into a local college or junior college? If so, make an appointment with their counselors first and find out what they recommend. Your easiest and quickest option may be to go for your GED. Have you considered that? Ask your local public library for information on local testing. While you’re there, check out any one of the "How to Study for the GED" type books.

The Internet is a wealth of information when it comes to distance learning. Both of these sites offer accredited high school diplomas.

Keystone National High School
420 West 5th St.
Bloomsburg, PA 17815-1564
1-800-255-4937  

Laurel Springs School
P.O. Box 1440
Ojai, California 93024-1440
1-800-377-5890

Cafi Cohen’s site has loads of information on obtaining diplomas.

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