Who can earn the adult high school diploma?
Adults (18 years and older) who did not complete high school may obtain a high school diploma through Lake Washington Institute of Technology. This high school diploma meets the graduation requirements of the State of Washington and is issued through the college. This option is available at many community and technical colleges though costs vary from school to school. Most college level classes taken to satisfy high school requirements may also be applied to a college degree or certificate. Students must take a minimum of one class at Lake Washington Institute of Technology to be awarded the diploma.
Where do I begin?
Step 1: The first step is to obtain official copies of any coursework you have taken at high school or other accredited schools or colleges. Official copies must be in a sealed envelope. It is a good idea to ask for a second copy so that you can have one for your records and one for the evaluation.
Step 2: Contact the High School Programs office at (425) 739-8107 to make an appointment for an evaluation of your transcripts. At this appointment we can determine what classes you will need to complete your high school diploma and will discuss options for taking these classes.
Step 3: Some classes and all English and Math classes require certain placement scores on the COMPASS. This test will tell you where you need to start to increase the likelihood of your success. You can arrange to take the test at our Assessment Center. At this time, there is no charge for the test.
Step 4: You will need to apply for admission to the college in order to begin taking classes. You can do this online or in person at our Enrollment Services office located on the second floor of the West Building. There is no charge to apply for admission. Kirkland campus driving directions.
How much will it cost?
You will pay regular college tuition and fees. In addition to tuition and fees, you will want to plan to purchase books and other supplies.
Am I too old to earn a high school diploma?
No! Students 18 and older are eligible for the Adult High School Completion program. Many students who wish to achieve this important milestone are in their thirties, forties, and older. Students who are under 21 may also consider applying to one of our other high school programs.
What courses will I have to take?
An evaluation of your transcripts must be done before we can tell you what courses you need to complete your diploma. College level courses that you take can be applied to both your high school diploma and towards a degree or certificate.
The State of Washington sets the minimum requirements for the high school diploma. A total of 19 credits are required and are spread among English, mathematics, history, government, art, science, physical education, occupational subjects, and electives.
What is the GED?
Even if you didn't finish high school, you may have the knowledge and skills comparable with a high school graduate. The GED (General Education Development) test is a test that certifies that the taker has high school level academic skills in Writing, Language Arts Reading, Social Studies, Science and Math. Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers GED preparation classes to help students build their skills and test with confidence. Visit the Assessment Center for more information about taking the GED.
Which is better, a High School Diploma or the GED?
There's no right answer to this question. Depending on a person's academic skills, how much time they have to complete a high school diploma or a GED, and what their goals are in life, either option can be the right one. This is a question you can discuss at your evaluation appointment.
Do I need to have a high school diploma to apply for financial aid?
Generally, to apply for federal scholarships you need to have a high school diploma or a GED, though students without a High School Diploma or a GED may be eligible to apply if they meet certain criteria. Please contact Financial Aid office for more information.
Do I need a high school diploma to go to college or take classes at Lake Washington Technical College?
No, you don't need a high school diploma. Students 18 or older are eligible for admission to the college.
