Before you drop out, consider this: The GED vs. a High School Diploma “Though they’re often grouped together, there is a difference between the high school diploma and the GED. The GED exam is made up of five parts: writing skills, social studies, science, interpreting literature, and mathematics. Completion of a GED program will not give you a high school diploma, but most hiring managers look at a GED holder in much the same way as a high school graduate. However, a few colleges may see the GED as inferior to a high school diploma, often if they require specialized courses of study that the GED does not provide. The high school diploma gives you more options, especially if you’re considering more school. Employers view a high school diploma or GED as proof of potential. Beyond the basics of math, science, and literature, a diploma is proof that you are able to commit yourself to an education.