COLUMBIA, S.C. — A new incentive program will provide $500 to South Carolinians who earn a secondary education diploma and an additional $500 for training.
Originally offered only to individuals receiving Unemployment Insurance (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. The program has also expanded to provide an additional $500 to individuals who complete short-term occupational training through the S.C. Technical College system.
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-serve basis, according to officials with the SC Department of Education's Adult Education Office.
Aside from potentially receiving up to $1,000 for successfully completing the GED exam and occupational training, officials say they expect 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 SC Technical College System to offer this life-changing program is a testament to the care and passion each has for the populations they serve,” said DEW Executive Director William Floyd.
“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, SC 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."
Program officials say there is no better time for South Carolinians seeking to earn a GED and short-term occupational training credential as the South Carolina GED Incentive Program provides participants with up to 1,000 reasons to start today.
To learn more about the GED Incentive program, visit dew.sc.gov/ged-incentive-program.
