The General Educational Development (GED) test is a standardized test that measures an individual’s knowledge and skills in four subject areas. It provides an opportunity for individuals who have not completed high school to earn a high school equivalency diploma. Passing the GED test can open doors to higher education, better job opportunities, and increased earning potential. In Georgia, the GED test is administered by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). In this article, we will discuss the cost of taking the GED test in Georgia and provide information on fees and payment options. We will also provide resources for GED test preparation in Georgia.
How Much Does the GED Test Cost in Georgia?
In Georgia, the cost of the GED test is $40 per subject area, for a total of $160 for all four subject areas. However, the state of Georgia offers a voucher program that provides funding for the cost of the GED test for eligible individuals. To be eligible for the voucher program, an individual must be a Georgia resident and meet one of the following criteria:
- Be currently enrolled in a TCSG adult education program
- Have completed a TCSG adult education program within the past 12 months
- Have taken a GED Ready practice test and demonstrated readiness to take the official GED test
- Have completed a GED preparation course offered by a TCSG-approved provider
If an individual meets the eligibility criteria, they can obtain a voucher from their adult education program or from a TCSG-approved provider. The voucher covers the cost of the GED test and can be used for up to four attempts at each subject area. If an individual does not pass a subject area on their first attempt, they can use the voucher to retake the test at no additional cost.
For individuals who do not qualify for the voucher program, the cost of the GED test may be a barrier to obtaining their high school equivalency diploma. However, there are payment options available to help make the cost more manageable.
What Fees are Associated with the GED Test in Georgia?
In addition to the cost of the GED test itself, there may be additional fees associated with taking the test. These fees vary depending on the testing center and the services offered. Some of the fees that may be associated with the GED test in Georgia include:
- Testing center fee: This fee is charged by the testing center and covers the cost of administering the test. The fee varies depending on the testing center and can range from $10 to $30 per subject area.
- Test retake fee: If an individual does not pass a subject area on their first attempt and wishes to retake the test, they will need to pay a retake fee. The retake fee in Georgia is $20 per subject area.
- Transcript fee: After an individual passes the GED test, they can request an official transcript from the TCSG. There is a fee of $15 for each official transcript.
It is important for individuals to be aware of these additional fees when planning to take the GED test in Georgia. However, it is also important to note that financial assistance may be available to help cover these fees.
How to Pay for the GED Test in Georgia
For individuals who do not qualify for the voucher program or other financial assistance, there are still several options for paying for the GED test in Georgia. Some of these options include:
- Payment plans: Many testing centers offer payment plans that allow individuals to pay for the GED test in installments over a period of time.
- Fee waivers: Fee waivers may be available for individuals who can demonstrate financial need. To apply for a fee waiver, individuals will need to provide documentation of their income and expenses.
- Scholarships: Some organizations offer scholarships specifically for the GED test. These scholarships may cover some or all of the cost of the test.
- Employer reimbursement: In some cases, employers may be willing to reimburse employees for the cost of the GED test. Individuals should check with their employer to see if this is an option.
It is important for individuals to explore all of their options for paying for the GED test in Georgia. With the right financial assistance, the cost of the test does not have to be a barrier to obtaining a high school equivalency diploma.
