This report summarizes and integrates the finding of research studies dealing with the military General Educational Development (GED) program. The major areas covered include (1) the field conduct of the GED program, (2) characteristics of GED program participants, (3) a comparison of the utility of the GED certificate with that of the high school diploma, both inservice and postservice, and (4) the impact of attaining a GED certificate. Specific findings are presented in each of the major areas discussed. Following are the overall findings presented: (1) GED program participants had lower average aptitude scores than high school diploma holders, but higher ones than nonparticipant nongraduates. (2) A higher proportion of certificate holders planned service careers in comparison with their peers. They had higher pay grades at separation than noncertificate holders, but lower ones than diploma holders. (3) The GED certificate was regarded less highly than the high school diploma, but was perceived of considerable value in both inservice and postservice environments. This was particularly true for inservice where the certificate was accepted officially as meeting the requirements for a secondary education credential. (4) The impact of receiving a certificate was reported to be favorable by both certificate holders and noncertificate holders. The major effects of receiving a certificate were seen as increased confidence in personal ability and increased feelings of general well-being. (Author)