Interesting Facts
Interesting Facts About the GED®
Proof that a new beginning can lead to incredible success!
The GED® isn't just a diploma-it's a launchpad. Earning a high school equivalency has opened
the door for millions of people to reach their goals, start careers, attend college, and even become
stars.
Whether you're pursuing education, a trade, or a dream, you're in powerful company. Check out
these 25 famous people who earned their GED and went on to make history in their own way:
Celebrities and Public Figures with a GED®
1. Richard Carmona - Former U.S. Surgeon General
2. Peter Jennings - Legendary ABC News anchor
3. Mary Lou Retton - Olympic gold medal gymnast
4. D.L. Hughley - Comedian and talk show host
5. Christina Applegate - Emmy-winning actress
6. Paris Hilton - Entrepreneur and media personality
7. 50 Cent (Curtis Jackson) - Rapper and business mogul
8. Chris Rock - Comedian and actor
9. Mark Wahlberg - Actor and producer (earned GED at age 42)
10. Rihanna - Grammy-winning artist (received honorary high school diploma after
completing equivalent requirements)
11. Eminem (Marshall Mathers) - Rapper and lyricist
12. Jessica Simpson - Singer and actress
13. Michael J. Fox - Actor and Parkinson's advocate
14. Quentin Tarantino - Acclaimed film director
15. Robert De Niro - Academy Award-winning actor
16. Tracey Gold - Actress ("Growing Pains")
17. Dave Thomas - Founder of Wendy's
18. Jay-Z- Rapper and entrepreneur (pursued GED after dropping out early)
19. Billy Joel - Iconic singer-songwriter
20. Elton John - Music legend (completed equivalency later in life)
21. Tommy Hilfiger - Fashion designer
22. Lil Wayne - Rapper and entrepreneur
23. Jim Carrey - Actor and comedian
24. Prince - Legendary musician (left school but pursued educational equivalency)
25. Bill Cosby - Comedian and actor (earned GED before joining the Navy)
Fun Fact:
Over 20 million people have earned a GED® since the program began in 1942. It's never too late to rewrite your story.
Let your name be next on the list.
Did You Know?
- The GED® test began in 1942 to help returning World War I veterans complete their
- high school education.
- More than 20 million people have earned a GED® since its creation.
- 1 in 7 high school diplomas issued in the U.S. each year is a GED® credential.
- GED® grads are eligible to attend college, join the military, or pursue workforc
training, just like traditional high school graduates - In many industries, a GED® is the first step toward earning certifications, credentials
or associate degrees.
Where GED® Can Take You
• Community and technical colleges across Georgia accept the GED® as proof of high
school completion.
• GED® grads can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) and many scholarship
programs.
• Many employers actively encourage or even reimburse adult employees to complete their
GED ® for career advancement.
Quick Motivation
"It's not how you start. It's how you finish-and where you're willing to go next."
Whether your goal is college, a new job, or simply finishing what you started, the GED® is a
proven pathway to open doors and level up your life.