Questions on enrolling?
We're here 9am-9pm ET Mon-Fri
Questions on enrolling?
We're here 9am-9pm ET Mon-Fri
Questions on enrolling? We're here 9am-9pm ET Mon-Fri
Questions on enrolling?
Questions on enrolling?
Questions on enrolling?
If you haven’t earned your high school diploma yet, you might be asking yourself, “Do I even need a high school diploma? Why is it important?” While the answer is different for everyone, a diploma can definitely help you on your journey to success. From earning potential, career opportunity outlooks, and finding out if you’re eligible to finish high school—here’s what you need to know about getting your high school diploma and what it may mean for you.
A high school diploma is more than just a piece of paper. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupations that typically require a high school diploma or the equivalent for entry have the most projected openings of any education level. It proves that you have met all coursework requirements in order to graduate high school. It's also an important benchmark for future employers, colleges, and the military to get a glimpse of your capabilities.
A high school diploma is important, especially when you're applying for jobs or hoping to go to college. Here's how earning your diploma can make a difference in your life, career, and options for the future.
It’s true! The added credentials from a high school diploma can really help your earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers that have earned a high school diploma make on average nearly $10,000 more per year than those without.
Read more: Pros and Cons of Online High School
Earning your high school diploma can seriously pave the way for more job opportunities. In fact, jobs that require a high school diploma have the most potential openings at the moment.
Read more: Upskilling: What it is, and How to Use it to Earn More
Planning on going to college but don’t have a diploma? In order to become eligible for federal student aid, the government requires you to show that you’re qualified to obtain a college education. You can do this by having earned a high school diploma, or a recognized equivalent such as a GED.
Getting your foot in the door to college may also be easier with a high school diploma. People with high school diplomas can send in their transcripts to admissions offices, putting them at a slight advantage since they can display their skill level in various subjects.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Applying to College After High School
Depending on which branch of the military you’re interested in, there are different education requirements. You may have a much easier time joining the military if you have earned a high school diploma vs a GED.
Why is that? Well, the military classifies those that have not completed high school or the equivalent as Tier 3, those with GEDs as Tier 2, and those who have a high school diploma as Tier 1. Most branches of the military will not accept Tier 3 recruits and tend to recruit a much smaller percentage of Tier 2 to join their forces than Tier 1’s.
Those with GEDS in the Tier 2 category also typically need to earn a higher ASVAB test score to qualify than those in Tier 1. James Madison High School is classified as a Tier 1 education and may make your time enlisting a much simpler process.
Read more: Where Are James Madison High School Diplomas Accepted?
Having a high school diploma is not without its perks! There are many ways that earning your high school diploma can help you out in life.
Some careers require a high school diploma to apply for the position. Expand your horizons with more job opportunities with a high school diploma.
Ronell Gibs, a graduate of James Madison High School (JMHS), found peace of mind after obtaining his diploma. "Now I have more choices and a broader mindset, rather than just focusing on sports, I think about something more realistic that will give me better money in life."
Read more: James Madison High School’s Graduate of the Year Winner
Since high school graduates tend to earn more, finishing high school can boost your potential for a higher income. In today’s economy, the chance to get a higher salary isn’t one many people can pass up. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those without a high school diploma or equivalent at age 25 or older had the highest rate of unemployment, making this credential incredibly valuable.
Read more: How Long Does it Take to Get a Diploma Online?
Sometimes the biggest factor holding us back from achieving our goals is ourselves! Prove to yourself that you can overcome obstacles you come across and you’ll be well on your way to the path of success.
Isabella Lynch, JMHS graduate, explains that completing her program online helped her rely on herself more to reach her goals. "If I had stayed in traditional school,” she says, “I would have relied more on the teachers to motivate me. Now, I’m ready to get going, and I can focus on studying by myself."
Read more: 5 Effective Study Skills for High School Online Learning Success
You may even become an inspiration to your loved ones to go for their goals as well! If you’re a parent returning to high school, your children will see your hard work and dedication and how important education can be.
Read more: James Madison High School’s 2024 Graduate of the Year Finalists
Not earning your high school diploma can have a bigger effect on your life than you think. It can impact your job prospects and salary potential for the rest of your life. Jospeh Brooks, another JMHS graduate, explains that "You can't cruise forever. You have to get initiative. You have to start somewhere.”
As education evolves into modern times, there are options now that allow you to finish high school between your busy life priorities. No matter if you work full time or care for family members, high school completion is possible with a self-paced program.
Recognition and acceptance of your diploma are the two main reasons accreditation matters. Many colleges and prospective employers, as well as apprenticeship program directors, will decline candidates who have not graduated from an accredited high school. James Madison High School is nationally accredited by both Cognia and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
With online high school, you can work at your own pace on your own time. Plus, there’s no age limit! Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, anyone can earn their online high school diploma with James Madison High School. Get an affordable, accredited education and begin your journey toward earning your high school diploma. For more information on enrolling in James Madison, request info or reach out to our Admissions Specialists at 1-800-535-1613.
Laura Amendola started her Penn Foster Group career in 2015 in the Education department, where she worked closely with instructors to help students achieve their goals. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature with a minor in Writing from Marywood University. Laura enjoys reading, snuggling with her cat, and recently has formed a love-hate relationship with cooking.
