Incentive program gives $500 to South Carolinians who earn secondary diploma, additional $500 for training

COLUMBIA - Partnering with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, a newly enhanced program rewards high school completion through the S.C. Department of Education's Office of Adult Education as well as short-term occupational training through the South Carolina Technical College System to grow the state's skilled workforce.

The General Educational Development (GED) Incentive Program began as a partnership between the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce and the adult education office, through which Unemployment Insurance claimants could earn their GED for free through their local Adult Education center and receive a one-time $500 incentive payment from the General Assembly upon passing the GED exam.

Originally offered only to individuals receiving UI benefits as a growth opportunity during the pandemic, the program was expanded last year to provide $500 to anyone in South Carolina who earns their GED. In addition, the program has expanded to provide an additional $500 to individuals who complete short-term occupational training through the S.C. Technical College system.

Aside from potentially receiving up to $1,000 for successfully completing the GED exam and occupational training, perhaps the greatest motivator for South Carolinians to complete their secondary education and upskill themselves is to open doors to the possibilities of higher-paying jobs, sustainable wages and professional growth opportunities.

"The seamless collaboration between DEW, SCDE Adult Education and the S.C. Technical College System to offer this life-changing program is a testament to the care and passion each has for the populations they serve," DEW Executive Director William Floyd said. "Thanks to the GED Incentive Program, eligible South Carolinians can broaden their professional opportunities as part of DEW's continued workforce development efforts, which prepare a skilled and growing workforce for rewarding careers with current and future employers in the state."

"This partnership confirms the commitment of all three agencies to serve South Carolinians seeking to invest in themselves and respond to the ever-evolving needs of a modern employment landscape," state Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver said. "This expansion of the GED Incentive Program showcases the transformative power of an accessible education in South Carolina. The SCDE's Office of Adult Education is eager to highlight the many ways we are here for the educational needs of every South Carolinian."

"We need a skilled workforce to ensure South Carolina's continued success. Programs like this, connecting learners with education and training opportunities, expand the talent pool and provide a true win-win," said Dr. Tim Hardee, S.C. Technical College System president. "This multi-agency partnership grows our state's workforce while providing South Carolinians a clear path to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future."

To be eligible for incentive payments, an individual must be a South Carolina resident, at least 19 years old and not currently hold a GED or high school diploma from any state. They must also have started a secondary credential program (GED or high school diploma) by July 1, 2023, and earn a credential by June 1, 2024, through the Department of SCDE's Adult Education program and qualifying technical colleges in the Technical College System. Funding for this program is limited, and incentive payments will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more about the GED Incentive program, visit https://dew.sc.gov/ged-incentive-program.