The GED, or General Educational Development, is a series of tests designed to measure the skills and knowledge equivalent to a high school diploma. The GED is accepted by most employers and colleges as proof of high school equivalency. In Virginia, the GED test is administered by Pearson VUE, a company that specializes in educational assessments.
The GED test in Virginia covers four subjects: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. The test is available in English and Spanish and can be taken at testing centers throughout the state.
The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) oversees GED testing in the state and works to ensure that testing centers meet strict guidelines and provide high-quality testing experiences for test-takers. If you are interested in taking the GED in Virginia, the following sections will provide information on eligibility requirements, registration, and preparing for the test.
Eligibility Requirements for Taking the GED in Virginia
To be eligible to take the GED in Virginia, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old. However, if you are 16 or 17 years old, you may still be eligible to take the GED if you meet additional requirements. For example, you may need to obtain permission from a parent or legal guardian and provide documentation of withdrawal from high school.
- Residency: You must be a resident of Virginia. If you are not a resident of Virginia, you may still be eligible to take the GED in Virginia if you meet certain requirements, such as being a member of the military stationed in Virginia.
- Education: You must not have completed high school. If you have received a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a Certificate of Completion, you are not eligible to take the GED.
- Identification: You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.
- Payment: You must pay the testing fee, which varies depending on the testing center. Financial assistance may be available for those who cannot afford the testing fee.
It is important to note that eligibility requirements may vary depending on your individual circumstances. If you have questions about your eligibility to take the GED in Virginia, you should contact the Virginia Department of Education or a local testing center for more information.
How to Register for the GED in Virginia
To register for the GED in Virginia, you will need to follow these steps:
- Create an account on the GED website: Before you can register for the GED, you will need to create an account on the GED website. This account will allow you to schedule your test and receive your scores.
- Find a testing center: You will need to locate a testing center in Virginia where you can take the GED. You can find a list of testing centers on the GED website or by contacting the Virginia Department of Education.
- Schedule your test: Once you have found a testing center, you can schedule your test online through your GED account or by contacting the testing center directly. You will need to select the subject(s) you wish to take and the date and time of your test.
- Pay for the test: You will need to pay the testing fee at the time of registration. The fee varies depending on the testing center and the number of subjects you are taking. Financial assistance may be available for those who cannot afford the testing fee.
- Prepare for the test: Before taking the GED, it is important to prepare by studying and taking practice tests. The GED website offers a variety of resources and study materials to help you prepare.
- Arrive on test day: On the day of your test, be sure to arrive at the testing center on time and bring your government-issued photo ID. You will also need to follow any specific instructions provided by the testing center.
By following these steps, you can register for the GED in Virginia and take an important step towards obtaining a high school equivalency diploma.
Fees in Taking GED in Virginia
The cost of taking the GED in Virginia varies depending on the testing center you choose. As of 2023, the average cost of the full GED test in Virginia is around $120, although some testing centers may charge more or less than this amount.
It is important to note that financial assistance may be available for those who cannot afford the testing fee. The Virginia Department of Education offers the GED Testing Program Fee Waiver, which allows eligible candidates to take the GED for free. To be eligible for the fee waiver, you must meet certain income requirements or be enrolled in a qualifying program, such as a workforce development program or adult education program.
In addition to the testing fee, there may be additional costs associated with taking the GED in Virginia. For example, you may need to pay for study materials or transportation to the testing center.
If you are considering taking the GED in Virginia, it is important to budget for these costs and explore any available financial assistance options. You can contact the Virginia Department of Education or a local testing center for more information about the cost of taking the GED and available financial assistance programs.
Testing Centers for GED in Virginia
There are many testing centers throughout Virginia where you can take the GED. These centers are typically located in adult education centers, community colleges, or public schools. Here are some specific testing centers where you can take the GED in Virginia:
- Northern Virginia Community College – Alexandria Campus: This testing center is located in Alexandria, Virginia and offers GED testing on weekdays and weekends.
- Thomas Nelson Community College – Historic Triangle Campus: This testing center is located in Williamsburg, Virginia and offers GED testing on Mondays and Thursdays.
- Lord Fairfax Community College: This testing center is located in Middletown, Virginia and offers GED testing on weekdays and some Saturdays.
- New River Valley Regional Jail: This testing center is located in Dublin, Virginia and offers GED testing for inmates.
- Mountain Empire Community College: This testing center is located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia and offers GED testing on weekdays.
These are just a few examples of the many testing centers available in Virginia. To find a testing center near you, you can search for locations on the GED website or contact the Virginia Department of Education. It is important to note that testing center availability and schedules may vary, so be sure to confirm the details with your chosen testing center before registering for the GED.
Find out more information about the GED in Virginia.