Getting your Alabama General Education Development (GED) credential is an important move in securing a successful future. This article answers many questions you may have about the AL GED.
What is the Format?
The Alabama GED has five sections: Language Arts, Writing; Social Studies; Science; Language Arts, Reading; and Mathematics. Only the Language Arts portion and the Mathematics portion have two parts. Part II of the Language Arts, Writing section requires that you write an essay in 45 minutes. Part II of the Mathematics section does not allow the use of a calculator.
How is the Exam Scored and What if I Fail?
Standard scores are graded based on a range from 200 (lowest) to 800 (highest.) You must earn a minimum a score of 410 on each test section to pass that section and you must get an average score of 450. Regardless of whether you fail one portion or all of the GED, you will have to wait six weeks to retake the exam. If you only fail certain sections, you only have to retake those sections.
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for the GED, according to the Alabama College System, www.acs.cc.al.us, you need to meet the following general requirements:
- You must not be enrolled in a K-12 school.
- You must be a legal resident of Alabama, a military member or dependent currently stationed in Alabama, a non-U.S. citizen who resides in Alabama, or a non-resident who is currently enrolled in an Alabama adult education program funded by Alabama's Department of Postsecondary Education.
- You must not have earned a diploma from any accredited secondary school.
- You must meet certain age requirements.
The age requirement is left vague because students can apply for an age requirement waiver.
To verify that you meet the requirements:
- Go to the following Alabama College System exam eligibility link: www.acs.cc.al.us/ged/faq/eligible.aspx.
- Contact your nearest testing center for the most up-to-date information.
How do I Register for the GED and What Will it Cost?
To register, you need to go to an official testing center and apply. The following link, from the Alabama College System, provides you with a list of local official testing centers: www.acs.cc.al.us/ged/testcenters.aspx. The cost to take the Alabama GED is $50, which is due at registration. If you want to retake the exam, it will cost you $10 per section.
How do I Prepare?
The state of Alabama provides you with a number of resources that can help you prepare to take the GED: free preparation classes, GED on TV and individual study. Free GED preparation classes are held at adult education centers. In addition, check out your local community colleges to see if they offer GED preparation classes. GED on TV broadcasts GED study sessions. Visit the following website for more information: www.ket.org/GED. If you choose to study independently, visit your local library to use their GED study materials or buy the materials from your local bookstore or online.
