Alternative High School Completers

Most colleges require either a high school diploma, a GED® credential, or recognition as an Alternative High School Completer for admission. Take the next step toward your Dakota Dream by learning how you can earn your GED® High School Equivalency Diploma or refresh other academic skills that will help you succeed in college.

Adult Education & Literacy Programs

South Dakota has programs available to help you get to the next step. Through the Adult Education and Literacy Program (AEL), adults can learn basic skills needed to achieve their career and academic goals. AEL providers across South Dakota offer classes in:

  • General Educational Development (GED®) preparation
  • English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • Skills Training
  • Career Readiness

The AEL classes are based on learners’ needs and interests, and they provide an open and stimulating learning environment. AEL’s skills training and career preparation can help students succeed in interviews, earn promotions or continue their education. With student-driven courses, AEL classes help learners reach their goals.

Note: You are not eligible for these services if already enrolled in a college, so make sure to connect with one of these programs as soon as possible to access all the available resources. This support could be life changing.

For more information, contact the South Dakota Department of Labor via email or at (605) 202-5937.

Find SD Adult Education and Literacy Program Providers

Earn Your GED® High School Equivalency Diploma

The General Educational Development (GED®) Test provides the opportunity to earn a high school equivalency diploma. This credential is recognized as a key to employment opportunities, advancement, further education, and financial rewards. South Dakota recognizes the importance of earning a high school equivalency diploma for those who have not completed a high school program leading to a traditional diploma and provides resources to help those wishing to obtain this important milestone.

For more information, contact the South Dakota Department of Education at GED@state.sd.us or by phone (605) 773-4726.

Learn More About Earning Your GED® Credential

Take the Next Step Toward College

Your GED® score isn’t the finish line – it’s a launchpad! Use your College Ready score to:

If you scored 165 or higher on any GED® subject test, you’ve achieved the College Ready level scores. These test scores show colleges you’re prepared for college-level coursework, and you may not need to take any additional placement tests.

Some colleges even offer free college credit with scores +175 – saving time and money!

  • Math | MATH 103, Mathematical Reasoning
  • Language Arts | ENGL 101, Composition I
  • Sciences | SCI 100T, Science Elective
  • Social Sciences | POLS 100, American Government
Learn More About College-Ready Scores

Understanding GED® Your Scores

Exam Passing Score | 145

If you score 145 on each test subject, it means you've passed! Achieving the passing score is a significant milestone that helps you prepare for the future. It opens doors to college, career advancement, and higher earnings.

College Ready Score | 165

If your score falls within the 165-174 range, that means you have the skills necessary for college-level courses and might be exempt from placement tests or remedial (non-credit) courses in college. This could save you money and allow you to complete your degree more quickly.

College Ready + Credit Score | 175

If you score in the 175-200 range, it means you have demonstrated skills that are covered in college-level courses and might be eligible to earn college credit! Earning college credit allows you to skip certain required classes, saving you time and money. See above for more details.

Why Earn a Degree?

No matter where you are in your journey, boosting your education can help you achieve that breakthrough you’ve been looking for. A college degree is not just a win for you; it also brings benefits to your family, the local economy, and the quality of life in South Dakota.

  • Get excited about starting a new career with skills that truly match your interests!
  • Increase your earning potential for a brighter future.
  • Uncover opportunities for a fulfilling, stable career with room to grow.
  • Enjoy a better overall quality of life, health, and well-being.

Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow!

Education Options Close to Home

Regardless of your location, you can enroll in an online degree program or attend a nearby satellite campus. Explore the various online degree offerings from South Dakota colleges and check out your local satellite campus to discover the best fit for your goals.

Online Programs and Local Campuses

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