We understand that some people haven’t completed high school yet, and if you are one of them, it’s not too late to continue your education. In South Africa, adults have different options available to work towards a high school qualification. Two options you may come across are Adult Matric and GED®.
When comparing Adult Matric and GED®, it is essential to understand that they are two different qualifications. They have different subjects, assessment procedures and study paths.
Your choice depends on your goals, available study time and what your post study plans are. This blog explains the main differences between Adult Matric and GED® in simple terms.
Adult Matric, also known as the Amended Senior Certificate (ASC), gives adult learners aged 21 and older, an opportunity to achieve a Matric qualification.
It’s very useful for those who left school before completing matric or for those who want another opportunity to achieve their Senior Certificate.
You can study through distance learning, which makes it easier to balance education with work and family responsibilities.
For Adult Matric, you will complete six subjects. These include languages, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy and elective subjects.
Elective subjects may include subjects such as Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Geography, History, Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.
Because you’ll complete several subjects, this programme requires structured planning and regular study throughout the year.
The GED® (General Education Development) is an international high school equivalent qualification. It follows a different route for learners to achieve their high-school qualification.
Unlike Adult Matric, the GED® consists of four main subject areas:
Learners can prepare for these subjects online and work at their own pace.
The study process is flexible. You can study one subject at a time before moving on to the next one.
The learner can complete practice assessments, once they’ve prepared. The GED Ready® practice test portrays whether the learner is ready for the official examination.
Official GED® tests are booked at approved testing facilities giving learners more control over when they complete their exams.
Adult Matric and GED® differ in subjects and examinations, as well as the study style and flexibility.
One of the main differences between Adult Matric and GED® is the number and type of subjects.
Adult Matric usually requires six subjects, while GED® only consists of four subjects. Adult Matric also follows a formal examination timetable, which makes it mandatory for learners to prepare according to set examination dates.
The GED® is more flexible because learners can work towards one subject at a time and schedule their official tests when they feel they are ready.
Both options work well for adults, but the study experience and style is different.
Adult Matric is styled more towards the traditional South African high school system. Learners study individual school subjects and prepare and study for formal exams.
The GED® is more of a self-paced option. This is very suitable for working adults or learners who prefer focusing on one subject at a time.
Choosing between Adult Matric and GED® entirely depends on your future study plans and career goals.
Your future study plans are essential when choosing between Adult Matric and GED®.
If you want to apply to a university, college or private institution, always check its application requirements before choosing your desired qualification.
Not every institution will treat Adult Matric and the GED® in the same way. A certain qualification may be accepted for one programme, but not meet the requirements for another. It is always best to do research first.
The same applies when studying towards your career path. Some employers require specific qualifications for certain positions. Think about the field you want to enter and do research on the qualifications that are usually required.
Completing your education also helps develop valuable skills such as communication, problem-solving, time management and independence.
Ask Yourself the Right Questions. There is no single study route that will be suitable for all adult learners. Consider your personal situation before making your decision.
Ask yourself questions like:
Answering these questions makes your decision much simpler.
Choosing between Adult Matric and GED® is about choosing the study path that best suits your goals.
At Adult Education Institute, we understand that returning to education as an adult can feel challenging and maybe a bit overwhelming. Distance learning gives you the chance to study while managing work, family and other important responsibilities.
The most important step is to understand your options before registering. Whether you are considering Adult Matric or GED®, think wisely about where you want your educational path to lead you to next.
Looking to continue your education? Contact us to learn more about the study options for Adult Matric and GED®, and find the route that best matches your goals. Enrol today!
