Do Trade Schools Require High School Diplomas?

The percentage of people who have a high school or GED diploma has increased steadily over the years, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). However, about 10% of the population still lacks a high school degree (or the equivalent). Without a high school diploma or GED certificate, it is difficult to get into a four-year college to further your education. But what about getting into a trade school?

This guide answers the question: “Do trade schools require a high school diploma?” It also provides practical advice about what you should do if you want to attend a trade school but do not have a high school or GED diploma.

Trade school requirements typically include a high school diploma or GED certificate. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Additionally, unlike four-year colleges and community colleges, trade schools generally do not require college admissions tests like the ACT or SAT. However, they may require some sort of placement test instead.

To apply for admission to a trade school, you’ll need to fill out an application and submit it along with the application fee (if necessary). You’ll also need to submit proof of your high school or GED diploma, if you have one. A school transcript and letters of recommendation may not be required when applying to trade school, but these documents could raise your chances of being admitted.

If you do not have a high school diploma or GED certificate, you should first consider getting your GED diploma. Even if you can gain admission to a trade school without it, you may need it for licensing purposes after you complete your program and start applying for top trade jobs. Additionally, employers may require a high school diploma or GED certificate.

If you want to enroll in a trade school without a GED certificate, contact an admissions counselor at the school you are considering and ask what your options are. There are some trade schools around the country that do not require applicants to possess a high school or GED diploma.

As mentioned before, you may need to submit your high school transcripts — even if you didn’t graduate — and you will probably have to take a placement test. The placement test will let the school know if you have the reading, math, and writing skills needed to succeed in the program.

Not having a high school diploma or GED certificate may hinder your ability to qualify for financial aid. You may not have access to federal student loans, and most schools do not offer scholarships or grants to those without diplomas. However, there may be external organizations that offer scholarships to students without a high school or GED diploma.

The Ability to Benefit (ATB) program allows students without a GED or high school diploma who qualify for financial aid to get funding from federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant.

To qualify, you may need to pass an approved test or complete six credits toward an approved college degree or certificate. Talk to a financial aid counselor at your school for more information about this program.

Some beauty schools do not require a high school diploma. For example, Georgia Beauty School accepts students as young as 16 years old with or without a diploma or GED certificate.

However, the school advises students that in order to take their state board exams, they must have a high school or GED diploma. The school needs proof that you have earned a diploma or GED certificate after you complete the program so it can submit your application to take the state board.

Most states require a high school diploma or GED certificate to become a licensed massage therapist. However, in states that do not have that requirement, you may be able to attend massage therapy school without a diploma. Keep in mind that if you want to work in a state that requires a diploma or GED certificate for licensing, you will need to meet this requirement.

Some certified nursing assistant schools may allow you to enroll without a high school diploma or GED certificate. However, most states do require a high school or GED diploma for licensing. Be sure to check your state’s licensing requirements when considering whether to enroll in a certified nursing assistant program without a diploma.

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