How may students demonstrate their ability to benefit from education if they lack a high school diploma?

Students who lack a high school diploma can demonstrate their ability to benefit from education through state-approved processes. This is particularly relevant because federal regulations allow individuals to qualify for federal financial aid if they can establish their capacity to succeed in higher education despite not having completed high school.

State-approved processes can include a variety of assessments or alternative qualifications that states recognize as indicating a student’s readiness for postsecondary education. These processes may involve standardized tests, attainment of a high school equivalency diploma (like the GED), or other forms of evaluation mandated by the state’s education department.

Utilizing these state-sanctioned methods ensures that institutions uphold educational standards while also providing students who may not have access to traditional schooling an opportunity to further their education and improve their eligibility for financial aid. This pathway is specifically designed to comply with federal guidelines, ensuring that alternative education routes are recognized and validated.