Ask HN: Get a GED to Skip High School or Online School?

[rhema]

My nephew (jr in High School) has medical issues that have prevented him from attending classes, such as PE where 80% of the score is participation. Based on conversations with his School Counselor, they are recommending he do online school instead. However, he is very smart and a motivated programmer that wants to do research. I'm wondering if anyone here started with a GED and was able to get into a good state or ivy league school and/or graduate school.

If I were in his position, I would want to quit, get a GED right away, and get some online community college credits while I hone my development / research skills.

Are there any relevant experiences or thoughts you have? Much appreciated.

[Bostonian]

Unfortunately, the outcomes of people with GEDs are not good on average (see below). If employers disdain GED holders, it's better to get a regular high school diploma if at all possible. OTOH, if your nephew will definitely get a college degree, the lack of a high school diploma may not matter.

https://www.bakadesuyo.com/2012/10/ged-high-school-graduate/

Are people with GED’s more like high-school graduates or high-school dropouts?

More like dropouts. While GED holders are as smart as graduates, in terms of future outcomes (annual income, unemployment, divorce, drug use) they look exactly like dropouts.

[adawg_4]

One of my mates used https://www.uopeople.edu/ While I know its not an online high school, I'm pretty sure if you check your state law about age of dropping out you could probably enroll him here.

[adawg_4 → adawg_4]

Btw he also transferred to a university in London from it I think.