We like to talk about the GED Test a lot here at Literacy Lubbock, but what is it? What are the requirements to take it? And is it the right educational option for you?
The General Education Development (GED)
Basically, the GED is a high school equivalency credential that individuals can earn if they didn't complete high school. The test covers four main subjects: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts (which is reading and writing). The test is designed to show that those who've passed it have the same academic skills and knowledge of a high school graduate.
What is it used for?
If, for some reason, you didn't complete high school, a GED is your next best bet. With your GED, you can show potential employers that you have the same educational level of a high school graduate. This can help in getting raises, being eligible for promotions, or gaining access to new job opportunities. Plus, colleges and universities require a high school diploma or a GED for admission into their programs. So if you want to pursue a career that requires some college-level education and you didn't finish high school, you'll need to get a GED first.
If you're looking for a robust list of ways you can use your GED after you've got it, click here!
Is a GED the same as a high school diploma?
While the immediate answer might seem like a resounding yes, there are other factors to consider. A GED does usually open the same doors as a high school diploma, but there are some limitations. The armed forces, for example, prefer high school diplomas over GED graduates. So if that's a career path you want to pursue, keep that in mind.
In addition, there are other intangibles at play. Intangibles is a fancy word that describes something without a physical presence, something that you can't touch. As unfortunate as it is, some employers and colleges place preferential intangibles on high school diplomas over GED graduates. Those people might view high school students as more dedicated, more committed, and with stronger follow-through. Luckily, we here in Lubbock haven't seen much of this, but through the adult education grapevines, we've heard some stories and we want to keep you informed!
Bottom line, a GED is still a wonderful option for those unable to go back to high school. And if you're currently in high school and are considering dropping out to get your GED because of forces beyond your control, we certainly don't want you to feel like you can't. Just be smart, assess your options, and find the best solution for you.
Who can take the GED test?
The TEA (Texas Education Agency) has some requirements individuals must meet before they can take the GED test. Please note, these are for individuals at least 18 years old. If you're younger than that, you'll have additional requirements that we'll explain later on. For now, we'll outline the basic, 18+ requirements for you here!
#1: Identification
A test taker must have a valid, government-issued photo ID. And it can't be expired. Here are some that you can use:
state drivers license
state learning permit
Department of Public Safety identification card
military ID
passport
U.S. passport card (requires additional ID with signature)
permanent resident card (requires additional ID with signature)
matrÃcula consular card
Forms of ID that will not be accepted include:
student ID
library cards
expired ID cards
photocopies of ID cards
digital photos of ID cards
digital IDs
parent/guardian's IDs
#2 Residency
Each state has different requirements. So if you live in Texas, you'll probably take the test in Texas, and you'll need to have proof that you live here. You can do that with:
Texas driver license
utilities or phone bill showing a Texas address
bank statements showing a Texas address
paycheck stubs with a Texas address
government mail showing a Texas address
#3 Age
To ensure that you meet the age requirements, TEA requires that you not be enrolled in high school and not be a high school graduate. This includes graduation from foreign countries as well.
What if I'm younger than 18 and want to take the GED?
The TEA really, really wants you to attend school if you're able to. If that's not an option for you, you'll have some hoops to jump through before you can get your GED as a minor. We'll break them down by age:
17-Year-Old Test-Takers
To qualify for an age exception, a 17-year-old must complete all these requirements:
have a government-issued photo ID (see above for ID requirements)
have proof of Texas residency (see above for residency requirements)
not be currently enrolled in school (unless enrolled in an approved in-school High School Equivalency Program)
not have an accredited high school diploma
have parent or guardian permission.
16-Year-Old Test-Takers
To qualify for an age exception, a 16-year-old must complete all these requirements:
have a government-issued photo ID (see above for ID requirements)
have proof of Texas residency (see above for residency requirements)
not be currently enrolled in school (unless enrolled in an approved in-school High School Equivalency Program)
not have an accredited high school diploma
be one of the following:
in the care of a state agency
under a court order issued under Family Code 65.103 (a) (3)
enrolled in a Job Corps training program
enrolled in the Texas Challenge Academy
If you'd like to earn your GED, we can help! We have tutors, teachers, study materials, and methods to help you earn your GED quickly! Register for our free programs, learn more about Lubbock's GED testing centers, or learn more about how our GED programs work and get started on your future today!
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