GED in Alabama: Requirements, Cost, Testing Centers, & More

Earning your GED credential in Alabama is a powerful step toward a more stable and successful future. With your Alabama high school equivalency diploma, you’ll open doors to new opportunities. 

While passing the GED can be challenging, with thorough preparation and the right support, you can develop the skills needed to succeed and achieve your goals

GED in Alabama: Requirements

To meet GED eligibility in Alabama, you must fulfill certain requirements. These include:

• You must not be currently enrolled in a public or private K-12 school, church school, or a private tutor program registered with the Alabama Department of Education.
• You must not already hold a high school diploma or any equivalency certificate.

Residency Requirements for GED in Alabama

In Alabama, the residency requirements for taking the GED exam vary based on the age of the test-taker. For individuals 18 years old and above, there is no residency requirement. However, those who are between 16 and 17 years old must be residents of Alabama to be eligible to take the GED exam.

Other states where residency is not required, include:

GED in Alabama: Age Requirements

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to meet any additional age requirements. If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must meet additional requirements, including:

• For 17-year-olds: You must have completed a Student Exit Interview or provide a notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian granting permission to take the GED test.
• For 16-year-olds: You must have a Certificate of Exemption issued by the school district’s superintendent, a notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian granting permission to take the GED test, and must achieve a minimum score on the TABE Test or the GED Ready Mathematical Reasoning and Reasoning Through Language Arts tests.

Cost of GED in Alabama

The cost of the GED test in Alabama depends on whether you take it online or in person at a testing center.

If you take the exam at a physical test site, the total cost is $144, with $36 per subtest.

When taking the GED test online, the cost is still $144 for the entire exam, which breaks down to $36 per subject test. Additionally, there is a $28 fee for taking four GED Ready practice tests, bringing the total online GED testing cost in Alabama to $172.

You can register and schedule your tests online at GED.com. To pay for the online GED test, you can use a credit or debit card when scheduling your test.

GED Preparation in Alabama

To prepare for the GED test in Alabama, start by exploring a few key resources. Take a GED practice test in Alabama to assess your strengths and areas for improvement. You can also find various GED Programs in Alabama that offer structured support. 

For a more flexible option, paid and free GED classes in Alabama allow you to study at your own pace. These resources provide a great foundation for starting your GED journey and setting yourself up for success.

By learning how to prepare for the GED in Alabama, you can take charge of your preparation, pass your GED test, and open doors to new opportunities.

Find Out: More GED Prep Classes in Alabama

Alabama Community Colleges GED

Ready to earn your GED in Alabama? Alabama community colleges are your perfect starting point! These colleges offer GED preparation programs that are flexible, affordable, and designed to help you succeed.

With free classes available at institutions like Coastal Alabama Community College and Bishop State Community College, you can prepare for the test without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer in-person or online learning, these colleges provide flexible options tailored to your needs.

Why choose a community college for your GED? You’ll get expert guidance from caring instructors, access to resources like tutoring, and even career services to help you after graduation. Get started today by checking out Alabama community colleges offering GED programs.

Alabama GED Testing Centers

If you’re wondering where to take the GED test in Alabama, you have two options. The first option is to take the test at official GED testing centers, which provide a secure and private computer-based testing environment. Below is a list of various Alabama GED testing locations:

Alexander City

Central Alabama Community College
1675 Cherokee Road
Alexander City, AL 35010
256-215-4270

Anniston

Gadsden State Community College
1801 Coleman Road
Anniston, AL 36207
256-832-1217

Atmore

Coastal Alabama Community College
6574 Hwy 21
Atmore, AL 36502
251-368-7603

Auburn

Auburn University
112 S College St, 232 Biggin Hall
Auburn, AL 36849
334-844-7936

Bay Minette

Coastal Alabama Community College
1900 Hwy 31 S
Bay Minette, AL 36507
251-580-2185

Ged Testing Centers Near Birmingham, Al

Jefferson State Community College
2601 Carson Road
Birmingham, AL 35215
205-856-7942

Jefferson State Community College
4600 Valleydale Road
Birmingham, AL 35242
205-983-5276

Lawson State Community College
3060 Wilson Road SW
Birmingham, AL 35221
205-929-6448

Boaz

Snead State Community College
501 Usry Street
Boaz, AL 35957
256-593-5120

Brewton

Coastal Alabama Community College
220 Alco Drive
Brewton, AL 36426
251-368-7603

Childersburg

Central Alabama Community College
34091 US Hwy 280
Childersburg, AL 35044
256-378-2017

Clanton

Kelsey’s Place
950 Lumac Road
Clanton, AL 35045
205-299-5384

Dothan

Wallace Community College
1141 Wallace Drive
Dothan, AL 36303
334-556-2373

Enterprise

Enterprise State Community College
600 Plaza Drive
Enterprise, AL 36330
334-347-2623

Eufaula

Wallace Community College
3235 S Eufaula Avenue
Eufaula, AL 36027
334-687-3543

Evergreen

Coastal Alabama Community College
102 Dannelly Blvd
Evergreen, AL 36401
251-578-1313

Gadsden

Gadsden State Community College
1001 George Wallace Drive
Gadsden, AL 35903
256-549-8335

Hanceville

Wallace State Community College
801 Main St NW
Hanceville, AL 35077
256-352-8259

Huntsville AL GED test locations

Calhoun Community College
102 Wynn Drive NW
Huntsville, AL 35805
256-306-2648

Jackson

Coastal Alabama Community College
235 College Ave
Jackson, AL 36545
251-246-0010

Jacksonville

Jacksonville State University
700 Pelham Rd N
Jacksonville, AL 36265
256-782-5293

Jasper

Bevill State Community College
1411 Indiana Avenue
Jasper, AL 35501
205-387-0511

Livingston

University of West Alabama
1 College Drive
Livingston, AL 35470
205-652-3833

Mobile

Bishop State Community College
1365 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Ave
Mobile, AL 36603
251-405-7031University of South Alabama
307 N University Blvd
Mobile, AL 36688
251-460-6101

Monroeville

Coastal Alabama Community College
2800 South Alabama Avenue
Monroeville, AL 36460
251-575-8277

Montgomery

Alabama State University
915 S Jackson St
Montgomery, AL 36104
334-229-4201

Trenholm State Community College
1225 Air Base Blvd
Montgomery, AL 36108
334-420-4400

Opelika

Southern Union State Community College
301 Lake Condy Road
Opelika, AL 36801
334-745-6437

Phenix City

Southern Union State Community College
301 Opelika Road
Phenix City, AL 36869
334-291-4900

Selma

Wallace Community College
3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway
Selma, AL 36701
334-876-9227

Sylacauga

Central Alabama Community College
1001 Ashland Highway
Sylacauga, AL 35150
256-378-2017

Thomasville

Coastal Alabama Community College
30755 Hwy 43 N
Thomasville, AL 36784
251-575-8277

Troy

Troy University
100 University Park
Troy, AL 36082
334-670-3159

Tuscaloosa

Shelton State Community College
9500 Old Greensboro Road
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-391-2984

University of Alabama
Box 870166
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
205-348-6010

Tuskegee

Tuskegee University
1200 W Montgomery Rd
Tuskegee, AL 36088
334-727-8970

If the closest testing center is in a different testing state, you’ll need to check the residency requirement for that state. Some states like Alaska allow people who don’t live there to take the GED® test, while others don’t.

To find a test center, click here.

GED Online Alabama

Alternatively, students have the option to take the GED test online from the comfort of their own homes. However, this remote testing option comes with a prerequisite – students must first pass on the GED Ready practice test.

To ensure a smooth testing experience, a reliable computer with a webcam, a quiet testing environment, and a stable internet connection are required. This remote option offers flexibility, allowing students to complete the exam without needing to visit a physical testing center.

Be sure to meet all the technical and procedural requirements before attempting the online GED test in Alabama.

GED in Alabama Retake Policies

What happens if I fail a subject? In Alabama, if you do not pass all sections of the GED exam on your first attempt, you have the opportunity to retake the test. The retake policies are designed to provide flexibility and support for test-takers while maintaining the integrity of the exam.

Number of Allowed Retakes and Waiting Period

For those testing in-person at a testing center, you have the following options:

• No waiting period for first two retakes: For your first two retakes of a failed subject test, there is no waiting period. You can immediately schedule and take the test again.
• 60-Day wait after third attempt: After taking a subject test three times, you’ll have to wait 60 days before you can retake it. This gives you time to review the material, prepare adequately, and practice more before attempting the test again.
• No annual limit on tests: There is no limit to how many times you can test in a year in Alabama. As long as you follow the 60-day wait rule after your third attempt, you can keep retaking failed subjects until you pass.

For those taking exams online:

• With the Online Proctored Exam, you have the option for one retake within a 60-day period. Following two attempts at a test subject online, there is a mandatory waiting period of 60 days before you can retest.

If you’re not fully prepared and think you might not pass on your first try, you can pay for the GED without taking the test. You can pay someone to take the GED test for you and get a guaranteed pass.

GED in Alabama Retake Fee for in Person Testing.

The retake fee for the GED test in Alabama is $10 per subject for the first two retakes, if taken within one year of the original test date. After that, the regular fee of $30 per subject applies again.

For example:

• If you fail the Math section, you can retake it two times for $10 each, as long as it’s within one year of your first attempt.
• After those two discounted retakes, if you fail Math again, you’ll need to pay the full $30 fee for subsequent retakes.

The $10 discounted retake fee only applies to in-person testing at an official GED test center in Alabama. It does not apply to online GED testing.

Additionally, after your third attempt at a subject test, you’ll need to wait 60 days before you can retake that subject again. There is no limit to the number of times you can retake the test in a year.

Retake Fee for GED Alabama Online Testing

For online GED testing in Alabama, the retake fee is $36 per subject. This fee applies to subject tests that need to be retaken online.

Unlike in-person testing, where there is a discounted retake fee of $10 for the first two retakes within a year, online testing does not offer this discounted rate. Therefore, for online GED testing in Alabama, the standard retake fee is $36 per subject test.

How Long Does It Take To Get a GED in Alabama

Getting your GED in Alabama doesn’t have to take forever. With the right preparation, you can achieve it in just a few months.

For some, one month of focused study is enough. If you’re aiming for a fast-track option, Prepsaret offers a convenient one-month package to get you ready quickly.

Need a bit more time? Many learners feel confident after two months of preparation. Prepsaret’s two-month package is perfect for steady, effective progress.

And for those who like to take it slow, a 3-month package gives you ample time to master all four subjects: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts.

Whatever timeline works best for you, Prepsaret has a plan to support your journey to success. With a little dedication, your GED is within reach

How Do I Request My Alabama GED Certificate and Transcript?

To request your Alabama GED certificate and transcript, you can utilize the GED Credentialing service provided by the GED Testing Service. Here are the key steps to follow:

• Visit the Website: Go to the GED Credentialing website to start your request.
• Create an Account or Log In: If you don’t have an account, create one; otherwise, log in to your existing account.
• Request Your Documents: Select the option to request both your Alabama GED certificate and transcript.
• Choose Your Delivery Method: You can opt to receive your documents electronically or as printed copies sent by mail.
• Pay Any Required Fees: The first transcript and certificate are free, but there is a fee of $15 for each additional request.
• Provide Necessary Information: Fill in required details such as your name, date of birth, and the year you passed the GED test.
• Specify Delivery Address: Indicate where you want your documents sent—either to your home address or directly to a college or employer.

If you took the GED test before 2016, you can still request your certificate and transcript through this service as of March 1, 2016. For any questions or issues with your request, contact GED Credentialing at 888-906-4031. 

What to Do When Alabama Won’t Issue Your GED® Diploma Despite Passing the Test

Here are the steps you should take to address the issue:

Contact the Alabama GED® Office

• Reach out to the Alabama GED® Administrator’s office and explain your situation. You can find their contact information on the Alabama GED® website.
• Provide them with your full name, date of birth, and the date you passed the GED® test. Ask them to investigate why your diploma has not been issued.

Gather supporting documentation

• Obtain a copy of your GED® test scores or transcript from the GED® Testing Service website. This will serve as proof that you passed the exam.
• If available, provide any confirmation emails or letters you received from the Alabama GED® office after passing the test.

File a formal complaint

• If the Alabama GED® office is unresponsive or unable to resolve the issue, file a formal complaint with the Alabama State Department of Education.
• Explain the situation in detail and include copies of your supporting documentation.
• Request that they intervene and ensure that your GED® diploma is issued promptly.

Seek assistance from your local GED® Testing Center

• Contact the GED® testing center where you took the exam and ask for their help in resolving the issue.
• They may be able to advocate on your behalf with the Alabama GED® office or provide additional guidance on the next steps to take.

Consider legal action as a last resort

• If all other efforts fail, you may need to consult with an attorney to explore legal options, such as filing a lawsuit against the Alabama GED® office for failing to issue your diploma.

Remember, passing the GED® test is a significant accomplishment, and you have the right to receive your diploma. Stay persistent and continue to follow up with the appropriate authorities until the issue is resolved.

Alabama Testing Accommodations for People Living with Disabilities

To apply for disability accommodations for the Alabama GED, follow these steps:

1. Create an account on GED.com: This is the first step in the process of applying for accommodations. When creating your account, you will be asked if you need accommodated testing. Select “Yes” to proceed.
2. Submit an accommodations request: After selecting “Yes” for accommodated testing, you will receive additional information on how to submit an accommodations request. This typically includes providing documentation of your disability to the test administrator.
3. Provide documentation of disability: The GED Testing Service requires documentation of disabilities to consider accommodations. This documentation should be submitted along with your request for accommodations.
4. Wait for approval (typically 30 days): Once you have submitted your request and documentation, the GED Testing Service will review your application. If approved, you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule your test(s) with accommodations.
5. Schedule your test with accommodations: After receiving approval, follow the instructions provided in the email to schedule your test(s) with the approved accommodations.

Key points to remember:

• It is recommended to submit your accommodations request at least 60 days prior to your desired test date.
• If you are unhappy with the accommodations decision, you can appeal by clicking on the “Request an Appeal” button in the Accommodations System and including additional documentation.
• The GED Testing Service provides a variety of accommodation request forms, including those for intellectual disabilities, learning and other cognitive disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, psychological and psychiatric disorders, and physical disorders and chronic health conditions.
• You can register and pay for the test on the GED website or by calling 1-877-EXAM-GED (392-6433).

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