The most apparent difference is if the degree recognizes your academic results, in contrast to the certificate of completion that does not include academic achievements and is open as a requirement for graduation. Then what is the certificate of completion?
The certificate of completion is a certificate given to those who have not fulfilled the graduation requirements but want to attend a farewell event together with their school or class. Recipients of this certificate are often students who have met the graduation requirements of the school but did not pass the national test.
Even though this certificate can allow them to take graduation at school, this certificate can prevent students from entering college. The reason is that what is needed to enroll in higher education is a high school diploma even though the actual certificate of completion is also proof of graduation.
The certificate of completion only applies as a condition for the graduation ceremony. Being part of the graduation ceremony is important not only for students but also for their families. Besides that, with the certificate of completion, they can still graduate with respect from their school.
The Difference between the Certificate of Completion and High School Diploma
It has been explained a little above that certificate of completion, and a high school diploma is two certificates that have differences and similarities. The following is a further explanation of the two documents:
The state has specific standards created for the high school diploma, and students need to meet the rule so that they could get the high school diploma. Generally, the regulations made by the state are consist of curriculum, numbers of credits to be taken, and the exit exam of high school.
Different cases applied in the certificate of completion. When students did not meet the three standards that have been mentioned above, they could get a document stating that they have finished the high school years but without passing the rules. So it is just a certificate showing that the students have completed their study.
However, these two certificates also have similarities. It has been mentioned that actually certification of completion cannot be used to enter college. However, there are remedial programs included in the college. So for the students who have certification of completion, they can take the remedial coursework in their weak area, and if they surpass, they can enter the professional college without the high school diploma.
If you are a student, you might be familiar with the certificate of completion. Certificate of completion is a certificate for the students who have completed the high school but have not passed the standards created by the state. However, they are allowed to attend the graduation party. Moreover, the certificate does not state your academic credentials, so it can not be used to enter college as the students need to take the remedial coursework first to be able to go to the professional college.