The General Educational Development (GED) test is a series of four tests that measures high school-level knowledge and skills. It is an alternative for individuals who were unable to complete high school and want to obtain a high school equivalency credential. In Pennsylvania, the GED test is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and passing the GED test is equivalent to earning a high school diploma.
Obtaining a GED in Pennsylvania is important because it can open doors to better job opportunities, higher education, and personal growth. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, individuals with a high school equivalency credential, like the GED, earn more money and have a higher rate of employment than those without a high school credential. In addition, many colleges and universities accept the GED as a substitute for a high school diploma, making it a pathway to higher education.
In order to obtain a GED in Pennsylvania, there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met, as well as steps to follow for preparing and taking the GED test. This article will provide a comprehensive guide for individuals who are interested in obtaining a GED in Pennsylvania.
Eligibility Criteria to Obtain GED in Pennsylvania
To be eligible to take the GED test in Pennsylvania, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Age: The minimum age to take the GED test in Pennsylvania is 18 years old. However, 16 and 17-year-olds may also take the GED test if they meet additional requirements, such as providing proof of withdrawal from school and parental consent.
- Residency: The GED test in Pennsylvania is only open to Pennsylvania residents. Proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or a utility bill, will be required at the time of registration.
- Educational Status: Individuals must not have graduated from an accredited high school or received a high school equivalency credential, such as a diploma or certificate.
- Criminal Record: Individuals who have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors may not be eligible to take the GED test in Pennsylvania.
Once an individual has determined that they are eligible to take the GED test in Pennsylvania, the next step is to prepare for the test. There are many resources available to help individuals prepare, such as study guides, online courses, and practice tests. Taking the time to prepare thoroughly for the GED test can increase the chances of success and obtaining the high school equivalency credential.
Registering for the GED Exam in Pennsylvania
To register for the GED exam in Pennsylvania, individuals must create an account on the GED testing service website at www.ged.com. Once the account is created, individuals can schedule their GED test, pay the testing fee, and view their test scores online.
The GED test in Pennsylvania consists of four subject area tests: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Individuals can take each test separately or all at once, depending on their preference. The testing fee for each subject test is $30, making the total cost for all four tests $120.
Test-takers can choose to take the GED test at an official testing center in Pennsylvania or online. Online testing is available for individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having access to a computer with a webcam and microphone, a reliable internet connection, and a private testing environment. However, not all test-takers may be eligible for online testing, and it is important to check the eligibility requirements before selecting the online testing option.
After the GED test has been completed, test-takers can view their scores on their GED account. The minimum passing score for each subject test is 145, and individuals must score a minimum of 580 overall to obtain the high school equivalency credential. Once the individual has passed all four subject tests, they will receive their GED certificate from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which is equivalent to a high school diploma.
Fees When Taking GED in Pennsylvania
The cost of taking the GED exam in Pennsylvania is $30 per subject test, for a total of $120 for all four subject tests. This fee covers the cost of test administration, scoring, and the delivery of the high school equivalency credential. The fee must be paid at the time of registration through the GED testing service website.
In addition to the test fee, there may be additional fees associated with taking the GED exam in Pennsylvania. For example, if an individual chooses to take the exam at an official testing center, they may be required to pay a testing center fee. This fee can vary depending on the testing center and can range from $10 to $25 per subject test.
There are also fees associated with certain GED preparation resources, such as study guides and online courses. However, many free resources are available to help individuals prepare for the GED exam, such as study materials available at local libraries and online practice tests.
Financial assistance may be available for individuals who are unable to pay the full cost of the GED exam. The Pennsylvania Department of Education offers a voucher program for eligible individuals that can cover the cost of the exam. Eligibility requirements for the voucher program can vary and can include factors such as income level and participation in certain education and training programs.
Testing Centers for GED in Pennsylvania
There are many testing centers available in Pennsylvania where individuals can take the GED exam. These testing centers are located in various cities and towns throughout the state, making it easy for individuals to find a convenient location to take the test.
Some of the most popular testing centers in Pennsylvania include:
- Community College of Philadelphia – This testing center is located in Philadelphia, PA, and offers both in-person and online testing options.
- Pennsylvania State University – The testing center at Pennsylvania State University is located in University Park, PA, and offers in-person testing options.
- Reading Area Community College – This testing center is located in Reading, PA, and offers both in-person and online testing options.
- Montgomery County Community College – The testing center at Montgomery County Community College is located in Blue Bell, PA, and offers both in-person and online testing options.
- Harrisburg Area Community College – This testing center is located in Harrisburg, PA, and offers both in-person and online testing options.
In addition to these popular testing centers, there are many other testing centers available throughout Pennsylvania. To find a testing center near you, individuals can visit the GED testing service website and use the test center locator tool.
When selecting a testing center, it is important to consider factors such as location, availability of in-person and online testing options, and any additional testing center fees. Choosing a testing center that is convenient and meets the individual’s needs can help increase the chances of success in obtaining the high school equivalency credential.
