Taking the GED to Improve Your Life

Getting your GED Diploma can make a big difference in your life. Read this informative GED Information Bulletin and learn:

   * What is covered on the GED Tests

   * How to prepare for the GED Tests

   * Where to get help

READ ON!

WHAT IS THE GED TESTING PROGRAM?

     The GED testing program offers you an opportunity to earn a GED high school diploma. Many people who did not finish high
school have knowledge and skills comparable to people who did
graduate. This idea is the basis of the GED testing program.
The GED Tests ask questions about subjects covered in high
school. The GED Tests are given in all 50 states, the District
of Columbia, the U.S. territories, most Canadian provinces, and
the Canadian territories. Each year, about one-half million
people earn their GED Diplomas.

     The GED Tests are available in English, Spanish, and
French. Special large-print, audiocassette, and braille
editions of the GED Tests are also available, and adaptations
to testing conditions are permitted for adults with
disabilities.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A GED DIPLOMA?

Education

     The GED program provides an opportunity for adults to
continue their education. Ninety-three percent of colleges and
universities accept GED graduates who meet their other
qualifications for admission.

Employment

     A GED Diploma documents that you have high school-level
skills. Approximately 96 percent of employers accept the GED
Diploma as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma.

Self-Esteem

     Many GED graduates say they have feelings of increased
self-esteem and self-confidence.

     Once you earn your GED Diploma, it's up to you to pursue
the individual goals you set for yourself.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO TAKE THE GED TESTS?

     If you left high school without graduating and your high
school class has graduated, you are probably eligible to take
the GED Tests. Contact your nearest GED Testing Center or the
department of education in your state, territory, or province
for specific eligibility requirements. Information on where to
call is given on pages 15 and 16 of this Bulletin.

HOW CAN I DECIDE IF I AM READY TO TAKE THE GED TESTS?

     It's a good idea to take the Official GED Practice Tests
before taking the actual GED Tests. Comparing your Practice
Test scores with the minimum scores required in your area will
help you decide whether you are ready to take the full-length
GED Tests. If your scores are high, you have a good chance of
passing the GED Tests. If your Practice Test scores are low,
you will probably need further study in one or more subject
areas. The Official GED Practice Tests are available through
your local adult education program. You can also purchase the
Practice Tests yourself by ordering Form CC of the Official GED
Practice Tests. See order information on the back page of this
Bulletin.

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR THE GED TESTS?

By Attending Classes...

     If you need help deciding whether you're ready to take the
GED Tests or if you want help preparing for the tests, contact
an adult education program in your community. Many programs
that are sponsored by local school districts, colleges, and
community organizations provide GED classes. The teachers at
these adult education programs can help you decide whether you
need to study for all of the tests, or whether you should spend
time brushing up in just a few areas.

     To get information regarding a program in your area,
contact your local high school, adult education program, or
community college. Look in the yellow pages of your local
telephone directory under the heading "Schools." Check the
listings for the high schools and community colleges in your
area. And of course, check for GED courses available in your area online.

    Programs offered by schools and colleges may be listed
under the heading "Adult Education," "Continuing Education," or
"GED." You can also call the general number listed for high
schools, colleges, or your board of education and ask for
information about GED classes.

By Yourself...

     After reading this Bulletin and possibly taking the
Official GED Practice Tests, you may decide that you want to
study on your own before you take the actual GED Tests. If you
can't answer some questions in this Bulletin or on the Official
GED Practice Tests correctly because you have not studied these
subjects in a long time, you may be able to improve your skills
by studying on your own. In fact, about 20% of all GED
test-takers prepare for the GED Tests in this way. Many study
materials that are available through libraries, adult education
centers, schools, colleges, and book stores may help you
improve your skills. There is also a television series called
"GED on TV" on The Learning Channel and many public television
stations throughout the country. To find out what channel in
your area carries the "GED on TV" series, call 1-800-354-9067.
You may also call The Learning Line at 1-800-232-2775 to find
out about self-study materials that you may purchase.

WHERE CAN I TAKE THE GED TESTS?

     You can take the GED Tests at one of more than 3,000
Official GED Testing Centers in the United States and Canada.
There is probably an Official GED Testing Center not far from
your home. Call your nearest adult education program and ask
for the location and schedule of the testing center near you or go online to find a location near you. You may also contact your state, territorial, or provincial department of
education and ask for the location and schedule of the closest
Official GED Testing Center.