Online High School Diploma - Texas

Diploma 6 months

Online High School Diploma in Texas

Whether you're a traditional student looking for an online high school option in Texas or you're over 21 years old and looking for a high school diploma for adults, Penn Foster High School could be a great fit! Through our accredited, licensed program, you can graduate high school at the pace that works best for you, from wherever you are.

  • Penn Foster High School is regionally accredited by the Commission on Secondary Schools of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and nationally accredited through the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and Cognia, the world leader in providing improvement and accreditation services to education providers of all types in their pursuit of excellence in serving students.
  • If you've already completed some high school credits, you may be able to pick up where you left off by transferring classes from your Texas high school to Penn Foster.
  • Graduating from high school can help you prepare for Texas jobs, colleges and universities, and the military.
  • Our online diploma covers similar subjects to what you’d study in a Texas public high school such as English, math, history, and science. You’ll also take five elective courses and choose from a range of subjects, including more academically challenging or career-focused courses.
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For Parents

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For Organizations

Save up to $470 Ends 11/26/2024

Cost of Program

$1,099

$1,569 Save $470

or

$55/month, Start for as low as $20

Enroll Now Request Info

1-888-427-6200 (9AM - 9PM ET)

See full program cost & payment options

What You Will Learn

  1. How to use critical thinking and reasoning skills to complete learning tasks in English Language Arts courses.
  2. How to use critical thinking and reasoning skills to complete learning tasks in science courses.
  3. How to use declarative knowledge and demonstrate understanding to complete learning tasks in math courses.
  4. How to utilize writing skills to complete writing assessments.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes

High School Diploma Career Outcomes in Texas

The average salary for high school graduates in Texas is $31,204.*

Average Salary in Texas by Education Level

Less Than 9th Grade

$24,886/yr

High School Graduate

$31,204/yr

Overall

$40,969/yr


Penn Foster High School’s online curriculum is designed to help students prepare for the future they want – in high school and beyond. After graduating, students will have an accredited high school diploma that can help them qualify for Texas jobs, apply to college, or join the military as a Tier 1 recruit. Besides qualifying for jobs, earning a high school diploma can also help you potentially earn more money – Texas high school graduates can earn as much as $6,318 per year more than those who don’t graduate.*

State Licensing Requirements

If you are interested in pursuing post-secondary education within your state you should check with your state to understand the requirements. States may impose requirements for receiving state financial aid. For example, an online High School diploma may not be recognized by some colleges and universities within your state to receive financial aid. We recommend you check with the institution for any specific restrictions - this is particularly important for residents of New York.

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A Parents Guide To Online High School

What’s the Difference Between a High School Diploma and a GED in Texas?

There are several differences between earning a high school diploma and a GED in Texas. Here’s what you need to know to help you decide which one is best for you.

  1. The GED is just a test. The GED measures whether or not you have the skills equivalent to earning a high school diploma. It includes 4 tests: Social Studies, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Reasoning through Language Arts. In order to get your GED, you need to pass each test. Failing even one means you won’t qualify – though you can retake that test to try to pass it.
  2. High school covers a variety of subjects. High school covers a variety of subjects and breaks information down into smaller lessons. You’re tested on each lesson, so that means, technically, you’ll take more (shorter) exams than the 4 GED tests. If you fail one test, you won’t necessarily fail a class.
  3. A GED tests your knowledge, while a high school diploma can help you learn it. The GED is meant to measure a certain level of skill, it’s not meant to help you learn the knowledge you’re being tested on. In high school, you’re not just being tested – you're developing the skills that can help you pass your exams and assignments, as well as be applied to how you approach future coursework at the college level.
  4. A GED and a high school diploma can be used for the same things. Many employers and colleges will accept a high school diploma or its equivalent – a GED. When choosing between them, it’s best to figure out what is right for you, since one isn’t necessarily better than the other. For example, if you’ve recently left high school and just want to get a credential you can use as soon as possible, the GED might be the best bet for your goals. Your high school knowledge is still fresh, so you may not need to invest in GED prep courses to pass the tests. However, if you’ve been out of high school for a while, an online high school diploma might be better. Through your high school classes, you can learn at the pace that works for you and be tested through shorter exams that focus on one or two lessons.

quote icon

Cathy Breymeier

Manager, High School Course Department

“Penn Foster’s online high school program can really benefit students who struggle with a structured learning environment allowing them the opportunity to work at a flexible pace comfortable to them with hours that suit their various learning needs.  Additionally, students who are bullied, struggle with anxiety or feel a lack of acceptance in a traditional school environment can find a home with PFHS and flourish in an online learning environment.”

Online High School Diploma in Texas - Curriculum

  • 16.5 core credits
  • 5 elective credits 


Estimated completion time:

  • Fast track = 6 months
  • Average time = 14 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from November 2019 - October 2020, excluding withdrawals.

Our online high school diploma curriculum is a total of 21.5 credits, including your basic general education requirements, like English and math courses. Penn Foster High School students get to choose 5 elective credits, ranging from academic electives like American literature and algebra to career electives, like pharmacy technician, residential electrician, or vet assistant. If you choose to focus on a specific career in one of our pathway high school programs, your electives will be focused on skills needed for your chosen career path.


Through Penn Foster, you’ll take classes that are very similar to what you’d cover in your Texas public high school. Your courses include:


  • Written Communication
  • General Math
  • Biology
  • American History

Show Full Curriculum

High School Diploma Success Stories

Texas graduates of Penn Foster's High School Diploma program have been able to start new careers, advance in their current jobs, join the military, or pursue college degrees – all while learning at the speed that works best for them!
View Student Success Stories
quote icon

Selina L.

High School Graduate, 2021

“Obtaining my high school diploma was the first important step I needed to take in order to get to college. Penn Foster paved the way for me to take the next step into my career.”

Interested in High School Completion For Your Learners?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
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How much does it cost to get your high school diploma online in Texas?

Earning your online high school diploma in Texas doesn’t have to be expensive. With affordable tuition and customized payment plans, you can choose an option that works with your budget!

Option 1: Pay in full

Save up to $470 Ends 11/26/2024

Cost of Program1

$1,099

$1,569 Save $470

  • Best price. Best value.
  • Pay the full cost today
  • No monthly payments
Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Cost of Program1

$1,569

  • Pay $55 per month
  • Start for $20 down
  • All major credit and debit cards accepted
Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program1

$1,569

  • Pay $55 per month
  • Start for $39 down
  • Mail your payments
Enroll Now

Need more info or ready to enroll?

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits or our refund policy. find this this information and more about tuition and enrollment.

Tuition & Payment Options
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Going Back to School as an Adult (FAQs)

Our Proven High School Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

  • Start anytime
  • No exam due dates
  • Self-paced

Interactive

  • Digital study guides
  • Self-check quizzes
  • Simulations and videos

Connected

  • 24/7 access to online resources
  • Online Student Community
  • Student Portal Help Center

Supportive

  • Expert faculty
  • Dedicated student services
  • Robust learning resources

Online High School Diploma in Texas FAQs

How do I get my high school diploma online in Texas?

It’s pretty easy to get your high school diploma online in Texas! If you’re a traditional aged student looking to transfer to an online high school, you’ll have your parent or guardian enroll you. They'll need to get an official copy of your transcript form your current school sent to us if you’ve completed any classes so you can pick up where you left off.

If you’re an adult learner, you can enroll whenever you’re ready – online or by calling Admissions at 1-888-427-6500. You can also potentially have credits transferred from your previous high school if you completed any grades. You’ll just ask your school to send us a sealed, official copy of your transcript.

Is a GED the same as a high school diploma?

No, the GED is not the same as a high school diploma. The GED is a test that measures your high school level skills and knowledge, but doesn’t necessarily involve classes, homework, or assignments. High school is a full curriculum of courses that cover the standard subjects like English, math, science, and history, as well as allowing students to take elective classes that align with their interests or career goals.

Is grade 12 the same as high school diploma?

No, grade 12 is the last grade you need to successfully complete to earn your high school diploma.

Does a high school diploma matter?

It really depends! Some people do well with just a GED, while for others, having a diploma can make a huge impact in their lives. Not only does it give you something to be proud of, but it can also help you stand out from those who DON’T have their diploma when you’re applying for jobs. 

How do you get your high school diploma after 21?

Many public high schools and Texas virtual high school options don’t accept students 21 or older. But it’s never too late to get your diploma at any age. You can graduate high school after 21 by enrolling in an online high school like Penn Foster! With no age limits, we have students from 13 to 99 working toward reaching their goals.

Is there an online high school in Texas?

Generally, states may now offer virtual high school options or charter schools to help students who aren’t doing well in a standard high school environment have the opportunity to graduate. However, like a public school, almost all of these online options have set class times and due dates for exams and assignments. They also tend to have an age limit; if you’re 21 or over, you don’t qualify.

You also have the option of finishing high school in Texas by enrolling in an independent, accredited school like Penn Foster. There is no age limit, so you can earn your high school diploma at any age and our self-paced classes allow you to study around your schedule.

Is GED equivalent to a high school diploma in Texas?

Yes, in most cases a GED is considered the equivalent of a high school diploma in Texas. For many employers, they may be interchangeable. Colleges in Texas, and around the country, also accept applicants with GEDs. However, a high school diploma can sometimes be more beneficial, especially for things like military recruitment. The military prefers to recruit Tier 1 applicants – those who’ve graduated high school – over Tier 2 applicants who hold a GED.

How old can you be to get a high school diploma in Texas?

For Texas public schools, you need to be under 21 to earn your high school diploma. You can, however, finish high school online in Texas at any age with an online diploma program.

Disclaimers:

¹ The Penn Foster High School Diploma is a proprietary program. You are solely responsible for ensuring that the program and program award satisfy the education requirements of potential employers, desired postsecondary institutions, and all other relevant agencies. Neither job placement nor postsecondary admission are guaranteed to graduates upon program completion. Students who attend and complete the program as an adult, age 18 years or older, who wish to further verify their earned award may request a Certificate of Preliminary Education according the process outlined in the student catalog. The program name on file with the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed schools is High School 9-12.

In order to ensure that we are compliant with all of the regulations in your state, there is a minimum age requirement of 18 for our Career programs for Texas residents.

Sources:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. "Education Pays, 2021" Career Outlook Handbook. Accessed September 23, 2022.

*Texas Population 2023. World Population Overview. Accessed February 21, 2023.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.