Earn Your Kansas High School Diploma
There are more than 90 online programs that are accredited by school districts in Kansas to help adults earn their high school diploma. Several allow adult students to enroll and complete their diploma requirements from their local school district.
Graduation Requirements
According to the Kansas Department of Education, students are eligible for high school graduation after completing these requirements:
- Four English units
- Three units of social studies
- Three science units
- Three math units (including algebra and geometry)
- One physical education unit (this requirement might be waived if the student is unable to participate due to mental, emotional, or religious reasons)
- One unit of fine arts (such as dance, theater, or music)
- Six elective units
Local school districts might have additional requirements. The state Department of Education maintains a current listing of state-accredited high school programs under its Virtual Schools section.
GED Exam
The GED exam was developed by the American Council on Education (ACE) and is intended for individuals who haven't earned a high school diploma and aren't enrolled in high school. State-sponsored adult education programs in Kansas are mostly geared towards individuals taking and passing the four-part GED exam. To pass this exam, the state requires test takers to achieve a total score of at least 600. The minimum score allowed on any individual section of the test is 150.
Individuals who pass the battery of tests are awarded the Kansas State High School Diploma by the Kansas Board of Regents. The GED credential is accepted by most colleges, universities, and employers as an equivalent to a four-year high school diploma.
The GED exam tests students in four subject areas: mathematical reasoning, reasoning through language arts, social studies, and science. The ACE website provides detailed information about the GED, including what is covered on each specific test.
Preparing for the GED
Individuals can seek preparatory assistance for the GED at state-approved adult education centers. These centers are located in local school districts and community colleges. Most also serve as official GED testing centers. Test takers also might utilize online and at-home study resources. Study aids include practice questions and study materials from the Steck-Vaughn Company and the GED Connection program from PBS Literacy Link.
GED candidates in Kansas are not required to take the Official GED Practice Test, which is a shortened version of the exam. This test helps individuals prepare for the actual test. The practice test is offered at official GED testing centers. A fee is charged. Candidates might find their local test center on the ACE website or on the Kansas Board of Regents website.
Kansas GED Test Registration
The GED test cannot be taken online. It is only administered at an official test center. Individuals registering for the GED must provide acceptable photo identification and be at least 18 years old. Teenagers who are age 16 or 17 can take the exam with additional documentation. The Board of Regents website has a listing of official test centers, documentation requirements, and current fees. Individuals with learning or physical disabilities can request special accommodations during the exam. Contact your local test center for the appropriate request forms.
