HS Diploma by Mail Program Overview
Correspondence high school diploma programs are designed for students who have not completed a traditional high school program and wish to earn their diploma through the mail. These programs typically require the student to take the same courses and equivalent workload as traditional high school students; usually nine months of correspondence study are equivalent to one year of traditional high school.
Program entry requirements usually include a skills assessment test in math and reading, and students must provide a sealed copy of their high school transcript prior to registration. High school credits may be awarded for transfer credits, military basic training, military schooling, and work experience. Correspondence courses through the mail are self-paced, and diplomas are earned when the student has earned enough credits as required by the school and has passed either a state competency test or a standardized assessment.
How These Courses Work
After enrolling, correspondence course textbooks, study guides and assignments are delivered to the student through the mail. Text books and other materials are printed; some programs also use DVDs. Exams are typically taken in the presence of an approved proctor and may be turned in through the mail, while others can be taken online. Instructors are usually available by telephone or e-mail. Each state regulates its own curriculum, but required subjects often include math, science, English, history, and electives.
Correspondence high school classes are usually self-paced and competency-based. Students work on assignments at their own pace and, when ready, must pass a final exam with a predetermined minimum score. Most courses set course time limits and dictate time-frames for assignment due dates and test dates. Self-motivation, time management, and good reading skills are beneficial for taking these types of courses.