Taking the Easy Way Out: How the GED Testing Program Induces Students to Drop Out

James Heckman, John Humphries, Paul LaFontaine () and Pedro L. Rodríguez

Journal of Labor Economics, 2012, vol. 30, issue 3, 495 - 520

Abstract: The option to obtain a General Educational Development (GED) certificate changes the incentives facing high school students. This article evaluates the effect of three different GED policy innovations on high school graduation rates. A 6-point decrease in the GED pass rate produced a 1.3-point decline in high school dropout rates. The introduction of a GED certification program in high schools in Oregon produced a 4% decrease in high school graduation rates. Introduction of GED certificates for civilians in California increased the dropout rate by 3 points. The GED program induces students to drop out of high school.

Date: 2012
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Working Paper: Taking the Easy Way Out: How the GED Testing Program Induces Students to Drop Out (2008)
Working Paper: Taking the Easy Way Out: How the GED Testing Program Induces Students to Drop Out (2008)
Working Paper: Taking the Easy Way Out: How the GED Testing Program Induces Students to Drop Out (2008)
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