A study investigated the occupational, educational, personal, and social benefits of obtaining the General Educational Development (GED) credential for Wisconsin GED recipients. It examined differences in the benefits experienced and factors that affected the nature and extent of these benefits. A questionnaire was mailed to 1,028 individuals who received the GED credential between July and December 1989, with an adjusted response rate of 50.2 percent. Factor analysis of responses yielded 11 benefit factors: occupational advancement, further education, vocational training, GED participation of others, life satisfaction, enhanced parental role, better relationships with others, financial security, improved self-image, higher aspirations, and greater community involvement. Respondent age was the demographic variable related to the largest number of benefits. In-depth telephone interviews were conducted with 49 survey respondents. Results suggested that graduates' adult roles and responsibilities had an impact on the benefits they experienced from obtaining the GED credential. The nature of graduates' goals affected the outcomes they experienced. Recommendations were made for high school completion program alternatives, provision of support services, collaboration with educational providers, and ongoing program evaluation and follow-up. (Appendixes include a list of 17 references, bibliography of 32 GED studies, and survey instruments.) (YLB)