What Are University Endowments?

University endowments are a type of investment. What makes them unique is that they are structured in such a way as to allow the funds to last indefinitely, based on very strict financial guidelines.

What Is the Purpose of a University Endowment?

An endowment can work for many things. University endowments typically help finance some aspect of the school’s efforts. This could include supporting operations. It may include professorships. They often include scholarships as well.

An endowment is given to the school. There is usually a specific goal or use for the funds. With scholarships, there may be requirements for students applying for them. The endowment goes into place. Over time, it builds value when the investments within it perform well. That helps to replenish the available to use funds.

college admission Archives - EducationConnection

Table of Contents

CAN YOU GO TO COLLEGE WITH A GED?

Is it possible to get into college with a GED? Absolutely! Many colleges and universities accept students with a GED. Despite the misconception that a traditional high school diploma is the only path to college, having a GED opens doors to higher education. Of course, you’ll need to meet the other admissions requirements of the college you’re interested in attending. Additionally, you may also be interested in trade schools that don’t require a high school diploma or GED.

Does a GED Affect College Acceptance?

The impact of earning a GED instead of a high school diploma on college acceptance can vary depending on the college you are applying to. The GED is generally recognized as a high school equivalency, but what truly matters is meeting the specific admissions requirements of the school and making yourself stand out as an exceptional applicant.

Nonetheless, your GED score can indeed play a role in the acceptance process. Scoring a passing grade of 145 on each test subject is essential. However, if you score between 165 and 174, you are considered “GED® College Ready,” which indicates that you possess the necessary skills to excel in college. Furthermore, scoring between 175 and 200 is classified as “GED® College Ready + Credit,” suggesting that you likely already have a grasp of some of the skills taught in college courses. As a result, you may be eligible to receive college credit for your prior knowledge and abilities. It’s important to note that having a higher GED score doesn’t guarantee college acceptance, but it can certainly be a positive factor in the evaluation process.

What if You Have a Low GED Score?

If you have a low GED score, you could test again to try for a higher score. If you didn’t pass a subject test, you get two retests. If you fail the third test (and beyond), you have to wait 60 days before trying again. Your state may have other rules, too. Even if you passed all your subject tests, you are allowed to retake them to improve your score. GED prep courses or practice tests could potentially help you boost your score.

Are College Admission Requirements Different With a GED?

Often, applying with a GED does not have different admissions requirements. Except the GED itself, of course. You will have to submit your scores along with your high school or prior college transcripts. Some schools may only accept GED applicants who took the GED in the same state as the college.

Your school may also require or suggest that you take extra steps to prove you are college ready. Like, earning a certain number of credits at your local community college to show you can do college coursework. You may need to submit standardized test scores, like the SAT or ACT – even if that’s not required for all students. Always check with your prospective college about the admissions process for applying with a GED.

Am I Eligible for Financial Aid if I Have a GED?

You may apply for federal financial aid with a GED. That doesn’t guarantee you will get financial aid. You must meet other eligibility requirements, too. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. But, a GED is considered acceptable proof that you are qualified to pursue federal aid for college. Or career school.

Wondering about your school’s financial aid programs? Check with them, directly.

Finally, you may be able to apply for scholarships for students who have a GED. There are plenty of scholarship programs out there. Some may be designed to help students who took nontraditional paths.

What is Ability to Benefit?

Ability to Benefit is another way of showing you qualify to pursue higher education. Like a college degree or career school. Even if you don’t have a high school diploma or GED. This is for the purpose of applying for federal aid. This may apply to you if:

You were enrolled in college or career school before July 1, 2012 or
You are now enrolled in an eligible career pathway program

Your college could give you an approved ability-to-benefit test. This may help show you could benefit from education at that school. Or, you could earn six credit hours or the equivalent toward a degree or certificate. You may not get aid while earning those six credits. But, it’s another way to help prove you qualify to pursue higher ed and federal financial aid.

What Type of Colleges Accept GEDs?

Any type of college may accept GEDs, including:

Community Colleges, Junior Colleges, Technical Colleges. These colleges may admit a wide range of students – even those without a GED or diploma. Attending one of these institutions could be a potential way to earn an Associate’s degree or other credential. Or, transfer credits toward a four-year school.
Four-year College or University. These could be private or public, and they come in all different shapes and sizes. From large state universities to small, private colleges. When applying, check with the admissions office to see what’s needed from applicants with a GED credential. Like, a certain number of transfer credits.
Online Colleges. You are not just limited to traditional colleges. Online schools may accept GED applicants. Some offer adult education programs aimed at nontraditional students. Look for accredited online colleges and universities.

Online Colleges that Accept GEDs

1 Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
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World Campus is the online branch of Penn State. Started in 1998, it strives to offer accessible distance learning. Courses are the same as those offered on campus. Choose from career focused Associate’s, Bachelor’s degree, and graduate programs.

Have a GED? You’re welcome to apply. Applicants must send transcripts of their GED results. They also need to report all coursework taken in high school. World Campus also offers programs for returning students and adult learners. And, others with a nontraditional academic background.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED transcripts
High school record
SAT or ACT scores

2 Southern New Hampshire University
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SNHU is a private, nonprofit, accredited school. It has a campus in Manchester, NH that serves 3,000 students. But, most learners study online – over 135,000 of them! Choose from over 200 programs in everything from education to STEM subjects.

You may apply to SNHU with a GED. For online programs, the application process is pretty simple. You’ll need to do an online college application. And, talk to an admissions counselor. They’ll walk you through next steps.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED
Letters of recommendation
College prep courses

3 Liberty University
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Liberty is an evangelical Christian liberal arts institution. Along with its Lynchburg, VA campus, it is known for its online programs. Liberty offers 700+ programs, include certificate programs, undergrad, and grad programs. Over 450 of these may be earned online.

Besides traditional high school graduates, those with a GED are welcome to apply. To apply to any of Liberty’s online programs, you must submit an online High School and GED self certification form. Other requirements may depend on the program you’re interested in.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED transcripts
High school record

4 University of Massachusetts – Amherst
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UMassOnline is the online version of this well known state university. Along with the five physical UMass campuses, online learning offers another way to earn your degree. In fact, distance learning has been available at the University of Massachusetts for over 25 years!

Any student with a high school diploma or GED may register for courses. But, this is not the same as program acceptance. You must apply through the campus that sponsors the online program you are interested in. Like, Amherst. Follow admissions requirements for that campus.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED transcripts
High school record
Recommendations

5 Grand Canyon University
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GCU is a private university in Phoenix, AZ. It offers campus based and online learning. Pursue online degrees in education, business, liberal arts, or nursing and health sciences. Online degree programs are offered at the Bachelor’s, Master’s and doctoral degree levels.

GED applicants are welcome. There are min score requirements, though. If you took the 2014 or later series, you need a cumulative score of 680 or above. If you took the 2002-2013 Series, you need to score 3000 or above. And for the 2002 Series and prior, 258 or above.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Minimum cumulative GED score
High school record

6 Purdue University Global
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Purdue Global is a public, online university, part of the Purdue University System. It’s designed for working adult students. Students may try their online courses for three weeks, without risk. Many start dates throughout the year and flexible course scheduling may make this school the perfect match.

Purdue Global has an open admissions policy. It admits undergrad students with either a high school or GED diploma. But you must meet the school’s academic standards during your 3 week trial period. Some of the programs may have other admissions rules.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Proof of GED

7 New York University
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NYU is a large, private university with locations in New York City and around the world. It is known for its innovative research and diversity. NYU is home to select online degree programs. Plus, you can take online courses as part of a traditional degree program.

The GED (General Equivalency Diploma) is accepted as proof of high school graduation. Homeschooled students who do not have a homeschool diploma or other proof of graduation can also take the GED.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED
Transcripts
Recommendations
Formal demonstration of competencies

8 CSU Global
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CSU Global is part of the Colorado State University System. It’s an accredited, nonprofit state school. And, it offers fully online degree programs. Choose from career focused fields. Like, Business, Criminal Justice, and Finance.

You are welcome to apply with a GED. CSU has other unique rules that not all schools have. For instance, first-year applicants may need to apply with two years of work experience, min. Students over 23 years old, or those who have at least 24 prior college credits, may not need the work experience.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED
High school record

9 University of Arizona
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UAGC is a private, for-profit college. It offers distance education to help busy adults pursue their goals. Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and graduate programs are offered. Choose from subjects ranging from Business to Liberal Arts.

At UAGC, your GED counts as proof of high school graduation. UAGC has an open admissions policy. But to be fully admitted, you must meet certain requirements in your initial coursework. That includes earning a grade of C- or better by Day 6 of Week 3 in your first course.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

10 Columbia Southern University
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CSU is an online university in Orange Beach, Alabama. It awards undergraduate and graduate degrees, plus certificates. Columbia Southern is known for programs in areas like occupational safety and health, fire administration, and much more. It is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

For admission, you must have a high school equivalency – that includes the GED. Columbia Southern has an open admissions policy. But you will need to prove yourself in your initial courses. Undergrads must earn 12 credits. And, meet qualitative and quantitative criteria. At that point, they may be fully admitted.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

11 Colorado Technical University
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Colorado Technical University is a career focused school offering programs with a tech emphasis. Though, you’ll also find programs in Nursing, Criminal Justice, and more. CTU has campus locations in Colorado, plus online programs.

At CTU, the GED meets the high school graduation requirement. Beyond that, the school has an open admissions policy. So, there aren’t set requirements besides documentation of your GED. Contact an admissions advisor to learn more.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

12 National University
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National University is a private, nonprofit institution. It’s based in San Diego, CA, but also offers online programs. Choose from over 75 degree programs at various levels. You can even focus on one subject at a time, in accelerated, 4-week classes.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

GED transcripts
Formal demonstration of competencies (may be optional)
SAT or ACT scores (optional)

13 Thomas Edison State University
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Thomas Edison State University is a 4-year public school. It is based in Trenton, New Jersey. The school focuses on adult learners. Many students pursue their degrees online. But, you can also visit the historic campus to meet with your advisor, take a proctored exam, or just explore.

This school has an open admissions policy. You are welcome to apply with a GED. But, you must be at least 20 years old. If you are a member of the military, you can be 18 or older. And it is possible to apply for exceptions to this rule.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

14 University Of Maryland Global Campus
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UMGC is an online state university. Part of the University System of Maryland, it strives to serve working adults and military service members. Choose from over 90 degree programs and paths. In almost every course, digital course materials are included at no extra cost.

This school has an open admissions policy. You can apply to UMGC with a passing GED score. Or, another high school equivalent. And, students who have earned 60 college credits or an Associate’s degree can apply without a GED.

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Table of Contents

Online College ADMISSIONS PROCESS

In the ever-changing landscape of education, online college admissions have opened new doors. Whether you’ve recently graduated or you’re a professional seeking career advancement, understanding this process is pivotal. This guide is your companion through the stages of online college admission, starting from that first advisor call to enrolling in courses tailored to your aspirations. Uncover essential inquiries, necessary forms, and valuable insights for a seamless transition into online education. Empower yourself to make well-informed choices about your educational path.

STEP 1: THE FIRST PHONE CALL

During the first phone call, the Admissions/Enrollment Advisor/Counselor may want to schedule an interview time to speak with you. Otherwise, they may want to discuss the following during the first call and then schedule an interview at a later time:

Selecting the right program for your career and life goals. Are you looking for a school that accepts low GPAs or does not require entrance exams. All things to consider.
Your schedule and any time or life constraints for going back to school

Online College	GPA Requirement	Other Requirements
GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY	3.0	High school GPA of 3.0 or above ACT score of 19 SAT (Math and Reading only) score of 1000 GED and transcript of all credit-bearing coursework of 680 or higher
AMERICAN INTERCONTINENTAL UNIVERSITY	No GPA Listed	High school transcripts High school diploma or GED certificate Proficiency in English and math
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL CAMPUS	2.0	SAT score of 880 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Mathematics sections or ACT score of 17 Official high school transcripts
PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL	No Minimum Listed	Official transcripts Upload government issued ID Pay application fee Review degree plan

QUESTIONS TO ASK ADMISSIONS OFFICERS

What type of accreditation do you hold?
Do you offer any scholarships?
Do you offer Title Four funding (government financial aid)?
If I do not qualify for financial aid, do you offer help with Private Loans?
Do you accept transfer credits from _______ school? (if you have any to transfer)
Do you offer any credit for life experience?
Do you accept CLEP transfer credits?
How long will it take to complete your program?
What are your technology requirements?
Do you have a career services department?
Do you have academic advisors?
Do you offer technical support?
Are books included in my tuition?
Will I have access to a library?
How does your program work?
What is the time investment associated with this program on a weekly basis?

Note: Be sure to let the Advisor know if you are Active Military or a Veteran.

STEP 2: APPLICATIONS AND FORMS

After you have spoken with the schools, there are several ways you can begin the Admissions/Enrollment process:

It is not uncommon to receive an e-mail with the link to a school’s application site. Many schools have strictly enforced deadlines; however, do not be intimidated by this. These deadlines are established to separate serious students from non-serious students. Since the application should take only 10 minutes or so, take this opportunity to display your seriousness to the advisor.
You may be asked to pay an application fee, depending upon the school’s requirements. Make sure you ask your representative if there are any fees associated with filling out the application.
You may be asked to fill out financial aid paperwork. Some schools will complete your financial aid package prior to your acceptance, while other schools may wait until you are accepted.
Always feel free to contact your Admissions/Enrollment Advisor/Counselor with any questions. Most will follow up with you to see what questions or concerns you may have.
You may be asked to speak with a financial aid representative or a student accounts officer to set up a payment plan.
Some schools may require you to take a short exam or write an essay.

STEP 3: ENROLLMENT PAPERWORK

When you have chosen and been accepted by the school you wish to attend, you will be asked to sign an enrollment agreement. This may be e-mailed or mailed to you, or you may be directed to complete it online at the school’s website.

This is typically a three to seven page document that contains your personal information, your program of interest, what the institution is promising you, and what your obligations to the institution are.

Once you sign the document (you may e-sign, or sign manually and fax or mail back), you are enrolled!

STEP 4: COURSE REGISTRATION

Most institutions will recommend which classes you should register for first. Others may let you select from the course catalog. Keep in mind that if your school recommends that you register for certain classes, it is best to do so according to their guidelines.

In most cases, you can register online or on the phone. Once your registration is complete, many schools offer an orientation course to familiarize you with their format. It is recommended that you complete this course, as it will serve to benefit you.

HELPFUL HINTS

You might become anxious as your start date draws near. Just remember that this is normal, and that the first week of school might feel like culture shock. After a couple of weeks, you’ll assimilate school into your daily schedule and everything will begin to feel normal.

Simply keep reminding yourself:

“My education may enable me to make more money over my lifetime.”
“My education may enable me to move up the ladder in my company or get a better job.”
“My education may empower me to provide autonomy.”
“My accomplishment may inspire my children.”

You may even want to post it next to your computer or on your desk. Remember, in the words of Woody Allen, “80% of SUCCESS is showing up.”

Can You Get into College with a GED?

CAN YOU GO TO COLLEGE WITH A GED?

Does a GED Affect College Acceptance?

What if You Have a Low GED Score?

Are College Admission Requirements Different With a GED?

Am I Eligible for Financial Aid if I Have a GED?

What is Ability to Benefit?

What Type of Colleges Accept GEDs?

Online Colleges that Accept GEDs

1 Pennsylvania State University – World CampusVisit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

2 Southern New Hampshire University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

3 Liberty University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

4 University of Massachusetts – AmherstVisit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

5 Grand Canyon University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

6 Purdue University Global Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

7 New York University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2021/22)

8 CSU Global Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

9 University of ArizonaVisit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

10 Columbia Southern University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

11 Colorado Technical University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

12 National University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

13 Thomas Edison State University Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

14 University Of Maryland Global Campus Visit School

Admission requirements (for GED applicants) include

Average Amount of Financial Aid (2022/23)

Online College Admission Process

Online College ADMISSIONS PROCESS

STEP 1: THE FIRST PHONE CALL

SPONSORED ONLINE COLLEGES & THEIR REQUIREMENTS

QUESTIONS TO ASK ADMISSIONS OFFICERS

STEP 2: APPLICATIONS AND FORMS

STEP 3: ENROLLMENT PAPERWORK

STEP 4: COURSE REGISTRATION

HELPFUL HINTS

1 Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
Visit School

2 Southern New Hampshire University
Visit School

3 Liberty University
Visit School

4 University of Massachusetts – Amherst
Visit School

5 Grand Canyon University
Visit School

6 Purdue University Global
Visit School

7 New York University
Visit School

8 CSU Global
Visit School

9 University of Arizona
Visit School

10 Columbia Southern University
Visit School

11 Colorado Technical University
Visit School

12 National University
Visit School

13 Thomas Edison State University
Visit School

14 University Of Maryland Global Campus
Visit School