Earning your GED credential in Alabama is a powerful step towards a more stable and successful future. You have the potential to succeed, and with your GED, a world of opportunities awaits you for a more stable and prosperous life.
Passing the GED can be challenging, but with thorough preparation and the right support network, you can equip yourself with the skills needed to succeed in the GED.
GED Requirements Alabama
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 Age Requirements Alabama
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: They must have a completed Student Exit Interview or a notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian granting permission to take the GED test.
- For 16-year-olds: They 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 make a minimum score on the TABE Test or the GED Ready Mathematical Reasoning and Reasoning Through Language Arts tests.
Cost of GED Test 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 you schedule your test.
Alabama GED Practice Test
GED Programs in Mobile AL
In Mobile, Alabama, several programs offer GED preparation and testing services to help individuals earn their General Education Diploma.
Coastal Alabama Community College
It Offers free GED preparation classes covering all four subjects: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Classes are available in-person or in a hybrid format with open enrollment.
Online GED Prep Course
Free GED Classes Online Alabama
Check Out: Top 10 GED Study Tips
Alabama GED Test Online
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.
This measure ensures that students attempting the online GED test have a strong foundation and are well-prepared for the actual exam.
By utilizing GED study guide, students can increase their chances of not only passing the GED Ready practice test but also successfully completing the official GED exam.
GED Testing Centers in Alabama
In Alabama, people seeking to obtain their GED credential can take the test at official GED testing centers. These centers offer a secure and private computer-based GED test. The following include various GED testing centers in Alabama.
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
Birmingham
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
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 Retake Policies in Alabama
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.
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 Online Ged 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.
Alabama GED Transcript
After passing the GED exam in Alabama, there are several benefits and opportunities that await you. Here is what you can expect:
- Career Opportunities: A GED in Alabama significantly expands job prospects as nearly 42% of jobs in the state require a high school diploma or equivalent. This includes occupations like metal and plastic layout workers.
- Financial Rewards: With a GED, you can earn about 37.5% more than those without one. While a high school graduate tends to earn around $11,000 more annually than a non-graduate, a GED holder earns approximately $9,000 more than a non-graduate.
- College Access: A GED is widely recognized, with 98% of colleges admitting individuals with GEDs. This certification can pave the way for pursuing higher education and obtaining an associate degree simultaneously through programs like Monroe College’s Career Pathways Program.
- Trade School: GED holders can pursue vocational training programs like medical assisting, welding, culinary arts, and more, which typically take up to two years to complete and lead to certification for specific fields.
- Work Promotion: Obtaining a GED demonstrates readiness for advancement, leading to more promotion opportunities and potential pay raises in the workplace.
In Alabama, as in many states, a GED offers a pathway to a better future, increased earning potential, and access to a wider range of career opportunities.
How Do I Request My GED Transcript and Diploma?
To request your GED transcript and diploma in Alabama, you can use the GED Credentialing service provided by GED Testing Service. Here are the key steps:
- Go to the GED Credentialing website and create an account or log in.
- Select the option to request your transcript and diploma.
- Choose whether you want to receive them electronically or as printed documents sent by mail.
- Pay the required fee, which is $15 for each additional transcript or diploma requested after your first free copy.
- Provide the necessary information such as your name, date of birth, and the year you passed the GED test.
- Indicate where you want the transcript and diploma sent, such as to your home address or directly to a college or employer.
If you took the GED test before 2016, you can still request your transcript and diploma through GED Credentialing as of March 1, 2016.
For any questions or issues with your request, you can contact GED Credentialing by phone at 888-906-4031. They aim to deliver electronic transcripts on the same day and printed documents within a few weeks.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
FAQS
How Can I Get My High School Diploma in Alabama?
To obtain a high school diploma in Alabama, you can enroll in the Alabama Nontraditional High School Diploma Option (HSDO) program. This program is designed for individuals aged 19 and older who either earned enough credits but did not pass the graduation exam or have at least 10 credits and need additional credits to graduate. You will receive a regular high school diploma upon completion.
Alternatively you can take the GED test.
What Are the Requirements for a GED in Alabama?
- Must be at least 16 years old.
- Cannot have graduated from an accredited high school or received a high school equivalency certificate.
- Must not be enrolled in a regular high school.
- For 16- and 17-year-olds:
- Obtain parental permission and a notarized letter.
- Submit a Certificate of Exemption or an Approval to Test from the last school attended.
- Must provide proof of Alabama residency (for 16- and 17-year-olds).
How Much Does It Cost to Get a GED in Alabama?
The cost to take the GED exam in Alabama is $144 for the entire battery of four subtests ($36 per subtest) when taken at a physical test center. If you take the test online, it also costs $36 per subtest.
You can take (and pay for) the four GED subtests one at a time. When taken online, you should also add the cost for four GED Ready practice tests ($6.99 each, so $28 in total).
So in total, taking the GED test online in Alabama costs $172
How Many Points to Pass the GED Test?
To pass the GED test, you need to earn a minimum score of 145 points on each of the four subtests. This means you need a total score of at least 580 points (145 x 4) to earn your GED credential. Achieving this goal requires thorough preparation.
What Does GED Mean?
GED stands for "General Educational Development". It is a set of four academic subject tests that, when passed, certify that the test taker has high school-level academic knowledge and skills.