Returning to School After Dropping Out: A Comprehensive Guide

Many individuals, especially older adults, may find themselves in situations where they need to re-enter the educational system after a period of time. This article aims to guide those who are considering returning to school after dropping out in understanding the process and the options available.

College Credits and Transferring to a New Institution

Once an individual has completed college-level courses, these credits are typically permanent and can be transferred to another institution, even if they were earned at a previous college or university. This means that if someone re-enters school, they do not have to start “from scratch.”

For example, my wife dropped out of high school at the age of 17. At 22, she obtained her GED and went on to complete her Bachelors and later a PhD in cellular molecular biology. She is now earning an annual salary of $259,000 at 44. Her college credits have seen her progress along her academic journey efficiently and effectively.

Preserving and Transferring College Credits

For those who wish to return to college, the first step is to review their previous transcript for any completed credits. This is particularly important as it allows the individual to understand the scope and breadth of courses they can transfer, and how these credits align with the courses at their new institution.

Once the previous transcript is reviewed, students need to contact the admissions office at their intended new college or university to determine the policies for transferring credits. Most institutions have departments or offices dedicated to this process, often referred to as the office of academic advising or transfer admissions.

Returning to School After Dropped Out for High School

For individuals who dropped out of high school, the path to returning to the educational system may be slightly different. They may need to consider taking the GED (General Educational Development) test or a similar equivalency test to demonstrate their proficiency in key subjects.

After obtaining the GED, many students find that they can use these credentials as a pathway to community college or other post-secondary educational institutions. Once again, the specific process of transferring credits will depend on the institutions involved and the high school and college courses taken.

Picking Up Where You Left Off

When re-entering school, it is often the case that individuals can indeed “pick up where they left off.” However, there are a few things to consider. Depending on the institution and the field of study, some courses may have prerequisites that need to be taken first before moving on to more advanced courses. It is essential to check with the academic advisor or registrar’s office at the institution to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to continue on the right path.

Additionally, some institutions, like public high schools, may require students to repeat a grade if they have not passed certain subjects before moving on. However, in the context of returning to higher education, this is less common and more likely to be addressed by reviewing the transfer of previously completed credits.

Conclusion

Re-entering the educational system after dropping out is a significant step, but it is not impossible. By understanding the process of credit transfer and the options available, such as the GED, students can pave the way for a successful academic journey. Whether you are an older adult or simply re-entering the system after a break, the key is to plan and seek guidance to ensure a smooth transition.

Keywords: college credits, returning to school, GED program