Applying to University of the People without Proof of High School Completion
It is University of the People’s mission to open the gates of higher education to all qualified applicants. To facilitate this mission, we have opened a pathway for applicants who cannot provide proof of high school completion.
What Qualifies as Proof of High School Completion?
As required by California accrediting agencies, all applicants must present proof of high school completion. This can be provided in the form of:
(a) official copies of a diploma (or transcript showing date of graduation) sent directly to University of the People from the high school or an official authority like the Ministry of Education in the country in which the high school is located,
(b) photocopies of the original diploma or transcript certified by an official authority or by a notary,
(c) the original diploma or transcript, or
(d) home school parent issued transcript identifying completion of high school requirements.
(e) Students who have completed at least 24 college credits do not need to submit proof of high school completion.
Applicants who are unable to provide (a), (b), (c), (d) or (e) listed above may take an Ability to Benefit test approved by the U.S. Department of Education.
Undergraduate students who cannot provide proof of high school completion may take the Wonderlic Basic Skills Test (WBST). If an applicant cannot provide his or her high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED), the applicant must take and successfully pass an ability to benefit test to qualify for admittance to University of the People.
What is an Ability to Benefit Test?
The Ability to Benefit test provided by Wonderlic is a computer-adaptive test that determines a student’s ability to study at the post-secondary education level required in the U.S.. Once an applicant successfully passes the WBST and has met all other degree program admissions criteria, he or she may enroll in a degree program.
The Content of the Test
The WBST covers Verbal Skills (English) and Quantitative Skills (Math). To pass, a score of at least 200 on the Verbal Skills section, and a score of at least 210 on the Quantitative Skills section is required. The test is taken online.
How to Sign Up
Please contact your Program Advisor for instruction on how to register to take an Ability to Benefit test.