The impact of successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) testing program upon the candidates and on the perceptions of their employers was analyzed. Questionnaires were returned by 241 successful GED candidates and 52 of their employers in DeKalb County, Illinois for the period 1970-79. Over one-half of the 428 successful GED candidates contacted returned their questionnaires. Over one-half of these respondents indicated self-satisfaction as their primary reason for taking the GED test battery; an additional 40 percent indicated their primary reason was to qualify for further educational opportunity and employment or promotion. Respondents were nearly evenly divided concerning whether the GED provided new opportunities. One-third indicated a job change within 1 or 2 years after their GED success. Approximately two-thirds indicated they had not received their present employment as a result of GED success, although over 14 percent found that the GED certificate was related to successful employment. Almost 15 percent indicated they had attempted no new educational programs within 1 or 2 years following GED test completion. Employers generally found GED personnel successful in work assignments and were as satisfied with them as they were with other employees. Many employers were impressed with the improved self-image of GED completers. (Nine tables are appended.) (YLB)