Getting a GED (General Educational Development) credential is an important step for many individuals who did not graduate from high school but want to pursue higher education or better job opportunities. The traditional way to obtain a GED credential is by taking the GED test at an authorized testing center. However, in recent years, some testing centers and states have begun to offer an online version of the GED test.
In this article, we will explore where to get your GED online, the eligibility requirements, and the pros and cons of online testing. We will also discuss how to prepare for the online GED test, how to register, and what to expect on test day. Finally, we will cover how to receive your online GED test scores and the benefits of obtaining a GED credential.
Overview of Online GED Testing Options
Online GED testing is a relatively new option for test-takers who prefer to take the test from the comfort of their own home. However, not all states offer online testing, and even those that do may have eligibility requirements and restrictions on the number of attempts.
The two main options for online GED testing are the GED Testing Service and the HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) exam. The GED Testing Service is a joint venture between the American Council on Education (ACE) and Pearson VUE, while the HiSET exam is developed and administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS). Both exams are accepted by most colleges and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma.
The GED Testing Service offers online testing in some states, including California, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Texas, and Virginia. The HiSET exam is available in more than 30 states, including California, New York, and Texas. However, it’s important to note that not all testing centers within a state may offer online testing. Test-takers should check with their state’s GED testing program to see if online testing is available and which exam is offered.
Eligibility Requirements for Online GED Testing
To be eligible for online GED testing, test-takers must meet certain requirements, including:
- Age: Test-takers must be at least 18 years old. However, some states allow 16 and 17-year-olds to take the test if they meet certain requirements, such as providing a withdrawal form from high school or an age waiver from the state.
- Residency: Test-takers must be a resident of a state that offers online testing. Some states also require test-takers to be a resident of a specific county or city.
- Identification: Test-takers must have a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Technology: Test-takers must have access to a computer with a reliable internet connection and a webcam. The computer must also meet certain technical requirements, such as a specific operating system and browser.
In addition to these requirements, test-takers may also need to pass a practice test or attend an orientation session before they can register for the online GED test. The specific requirements may vary by state and testing program, so it’s important to check with your state’s GED testing program for more information.
Online GED Test Preparation
Preparing for the online GED test is similar to preparing for the traditional paper-based test. Test-takers should focus on studying the four subject areas covered on the test: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning through Language Arts. There are many resources available to help test-takers prepare, including online courses, study guides, and practice tests.
The GED Testing Service and the HiSET exam both offer official study materials that can be purchased online. These study materials include practice tests, sample questions, and study guides for each subject area. Test-takers can also find free study materials online, such as videos, articles, and interactive practice tests.
In addition to studying the subject areas, test-takers should also become familiar with the format of the online GED test. The test is computer-based and includes a mix of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and extended response questions. Test-takers will need to know how to use the computer and the testing software to navigate through the test and answer questions.
Finally, test-takers should practice time management and test-taking strategies to ensure they can complete the test within the allotted time. The online GED test is timed, and test-takers will need to manage their time efficiently to answer all of the questions. They should also use test-taking strategies, such as reading the questions carefully, eliminating wrong answers, and guessing when necessary.
Where to Register for Online GED Testing
To register for the online GED test, test-takers must first check if their state offers online testing. The GED Testing Service and the HiSET exam both offer online testing in certain states. Once a test-taker confirms that online testing is available in their state, they can register for the test through the testing service’s website.
During registration, test-takers will need to provide personal information, such as their name, address, and date of birth, as well as information about their eligibility to take the test. They will also need to pay the testing fee, which varies by state and testing program.
After registration, test-takers will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to schedule their test. They will need to choose a date and time that is convenient for them and ensure they have access to a computer with a reliable internet connection and a webcam.
On the day of the test, test-takers will need to log in to the testing software and follow the instructions to begin the test. They will be monitored by a remote proctor who will ensure they follow the testing rules and do not cheat. Once the test is complete, test-takers will receive their scores within a few days.
Taking the Online GED Test
Taking the online GED test is similar to taking the traditional paper-based test, but with a few key differences. Test-takers will need to have access to a computer with a reliable internet connection and a webcam, and they will take the test in a secure location, such as their home or a testing center.
During the test, test-takers will need to follow the instructions on the computer screen to answer the questions. The test is timed, and test-takers will need to manage their time carefully to ensure they can answer all of the questions within the allotted time. They will also need to navigate through the test using the computer and the testing software.
One major difference between the online test and the paper-based test is the format of the questions. The online test includes a mix of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and extended response questions. Test-takers will need to be comfortable with typing their responses and using the computer to complete the test.
Test-takers should also be aware of the testing rules and guidelines. They will be monitored by a remote proctor who will ensure they follow the testing rules and do not cheat. Test-takers should review the testing rules in advance to ensure they understand what is expected of them during the test.
Overall, taking the online GED test requires preparation, focus, and attention to detail. Test-takers should be comfortable with the computer and the testing software, and they should be able to manage their time effectively to answer all of the questions within the allotted time. With the right preparation and mindset, test-takers can successfully pass the online GED test and earn their high school equivalency credential.