The General Educational Development (GED) test is a nationally recognized high school equivalency test. It is designed for individuals who did not graduate from high school but wish to obtain a credential that is equivalent to a high school diploma. In the state of Texas, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees the GED testing program.
The GED test in Texas covers four subject areas: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning through Language Arts. The test is available in English and Spanish, and it is administered in person at official testing centers throughout the state.
The GED test is a computer-based test, and it is administered over two days. Test-takers must achieve a minimum passing score of 145 on each subject test, with a total score of at least 580 to pass the GED test.
The GED credential can open up doors to higher education, better employment opportunities, and increased earning potential. It is a valuable option for individuals who did not complete high school but wish to obtain a credential that is equivalent to a high school diploma.
In the following sections, we will discuss the eligibility requirements for taking the GED test in Texas, including the age requirement. We will also explore the benefits of obtaining a GED in Texas and provide tips on how to prepare for the GED test.
Eligibility Requirements for GED in Texas
To be eligible to take the GED test in Texas, an individual must meet the following requirements:
- Residency Requirement: The individual must be a Texas resident or have lived in Texas for at least 30 days before taking the test.
- Age Requirement: The individual must be at least 18 years old. However, individuals who are 17 years old may also take the GED test if they meet certain requirements. These requirements include providing a letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian, being officially withdrawn from school, and completing an underage verification form.
- Educational Requirement: The individual must not have graduated from high school or obtained a high school equivalency credential.
- Identification Requirement: The individual must provide a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
- Fee Requirement: The individual must pay the testing fee, which is currently $36 per subject test.
In addition to meeting these eligibility requirements, individuals must also demonstrate readiness to take the GED test by passing a practice test or completing a GED preparation program.
It is important to note that individuals who have already obtained a high school diploma or equivalency credential, such as a HiSET or TASC, are not eligible to take the GED test in Texas. Furthermore, individuals who are currently enrolled in high school are not eligible to take the GED test until they officially withdraw from school.
Age Requirement for GED in Texas
In Texas, the minimum age requirement to take the GED test is 18 years old. However, individuals who are 17 years old may also take the GED test if they meet certain requirements.
As previously mentioned, 17-year-olds who wish to take the GED test in Texas must provide a letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian, be officially withdrawn from school, and complete an underage verification form. The underage verification form must be signed by the test-taker, a parent or legal guardian, and a representative from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
It is important to note that even though 17-year-olds are eligible to take the GED test in Texas, they may face additional challenges in terms of meeting the educational requirements for the test. This is because the GED test covers subject matter that is typically taught in high school, and 17-year-olds may not have had enough time to learn and master all of the necessary concepts and skills.
Furthermore, taking the GED test at a young age may limit educational and career opportunities for individuals. Many colleges and universities require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalency credential, and some employers may prefer to hire individuals with a traditional high school diploma.
Overall, while 17-year-olds may be eligible to take the GED test in Texas, it is important for them to carefully consider their options and the potential consequences before deciding to pursue this path.
Can You Get a GED at Any Age in Texas?
Yes, you can get a GED at any age in Texas as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. While the minimum age requirement to take the GED test in Texas is 18 years old, there is no upper age limit for taking the test.
In fact, many adults choose to pursue a GED later in life as a way to improve their job prospects or pursue higher education. According to the Texas Education Agency, in 2020, more than 21,000 Texans earned their GED credential, with the largest percentage of test-takers being between the ages of 25-34.
One of the advantages of pursuing a GED later in life is that individuals may have more life experience and skills that can help them succeed on the test. Additionally, adults may have access to more resources and support, such as adult education programs and GED preparation classes, that can help them prepare for the test.
Furthermore, obtaining a GED later in life can lead to a variety of benefits, including increased earning potential, improved job prospects, and the ability to pursue higher education. For example, many colleges and universities accept GED credentials as a valid alternative to a high school diploma for admission purposes.
Overall, while the minimum age requirement for taking the GED test in Texas is 18 years old, individuals of any age can pursue a GED credential as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are prepared to put in the time and effort to prepare for the test.
