Earning a GED in Montana provides a pathway to obtaining a high school equivalency diploma, which is accepted as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma. This opens up better employment opportunities and higher earning potential, as workers with a GED can expect to earn at least $9,900 more annually than those without a high school credential.
Passing the GED exam is tough because it has strict passing requirements. About 40% of high school graduates don’t make it on their first try.
However, with proper preparation through online classes, practice tests, and a supportive network, adult learners can develop the necessary skills to successfully pass the GED exam.
How To Get Your GED in Montana
To obtain your GED in Montana, you must first ensure you meet the eligibility requirements: you cannot already possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, and you must be disengaged from any accredited high school. The minimum age to take the GED test is 16 years old, but candidates aged 16, 17, or 18 must meet additional criteria, such as being officially withdrawn from school and obtaining parental consent.
Preparation is essential, and you can study using GED study guides, local prep classes, or online courses. Taking practice tests is highly recommended to gauge your readiness.
You have the option to take the GED test either online or at an approved testing center in Montana. If you choose online testing, you must first achieve passing scores on the GED Ready practice tests, which cost approximately $6.99 each. The total fee for the GED test in Montana is $144, as it costs $36 per subject test when taken online.
However, if you decide to take the test at a testing center, the fee is $26 per subject, making the total for the entire GED battery $104. Therefore, the total cost for online GED testing in Montana, including the practice tests, is $172 ($144 for the GED test plus $28 for the four GED Ready practice tests).
On test day, bring a valid, non-expired government-issued photo ID. A passing score of at least 145 on each subtest is required; if you do not pass, you will need to retake the necessary subtests. Once you successfully complete all required subtests, you will receive a Montana GED certificate, recognized nationwide.
Check Out: Fastest Way To earn a GED Diploma
Montana GED Requirements
To be eligible to take the GED test in Montana, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Montana.
- Be at least 16 years old (additional requirements may apply for individuals aged 16, 17, and 18).
- You cannot be currently enrolled in high school or another educational program.
- Have not graduated from high school.
Montana GED Residency Requirements
- You must be a resident of Montana and have a mailing address located within the state.
To take the GED® test in Montana, test takers must provide proof of residency in the state by presenting either a valid Montana driver’s license or other acceptable documents to prove residency.
Other acceptable documents to prove residency include:
- Utility bill showing service address in Montana
- Valid Montana credential (driver’s license, ID card, etc.)
- Vehicle registration or title in Montana
- Rental agreement or rent receipt
- School transcript or report card
- Tax document
- Phone bill
- First-class mail with postmark showing Montana address
- Pay stub
- Credit card statement
- Mortgage document
- Expired Montana credential
- Insurance policy
- Bank statement
- Voter registration card
- Montana hunting/fishing license or permit
These documents must display both your name and residential address in Montana, and they must be dated within the last year.
If you’re taking the test on a military installation or in a federal correctional institution, you must declare Montana as your state of residency.
Montana GED Age Requirements
In Montana, the rules for taking the GED test vary based on age. Here are the specific requirements:
Age 19 and Over
- If you are 19 years of age or older, you can take the GED exam in Montana without any additional requirements.
Ages 16-18
If you are 16, 17, or 18 years old, you are eligible to take the GED exam but must meet the following additional requirements:
- Be officially withdrawn from high school
- Have parental/guardian consent
- Provide proof that a high school credential is required for employment or college admission
Cost of GED Test in Montana
In Montana, the cost of taking the GED test is $26 per subject, totaling $104 for all four subjects (Math, Social Studies, Science, and Language Arts) when you take the test at a testing center.
For online testing, the cost is $36 per subject, which amounts to $144 for the entire GED test. Additionally, there is an extra fee for online testing to cover the cost of GED ready practice tests.
GED Ready practice tests: Before taking the GED test online, test-takers must attain passing scores on the GED Ready practice tests. There are four GED Ready practice tests, one for each subject area, which cost $6.99 each on the GED.com website.
Therefore, the total cost for online GED testing in Montana is $172
- $144 for the GED test
- $28 for the GED Ready practice tests
To pay for the GED test, you will need to use a debit or credit card when scheduling your test online. If you don’t have a debit or credit card, you can also use a prepaid credit card as an alternative payment method.
You can also obtain scholarship opportunities through your local adult education center to help cover the test expenses. Moreover, programs like WIOA Youth, certain school districts, employers, health insurance companies, and local churches might offer assistance with test costs.
Check Out: The Top Government Funded GED Program
HISET Montana
Test-takers must also present valid identification and proof of residency. Similarly, several other states and territories require proof of residency for HiSET test-takers, including:
Montana HiSET Practice Tests
In Montana, there are a few options for taking HiSET practice tests:
- Official HiSET Practice Tests: These are available through the HiSET website and cost $6.99 per practice test. Taking these practice tests is required before you can take the HiSET exam online in Montana.
- Adult Education Programs: Many Adult Basic Education (ABE) and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs in Montana offer free HiSET preparation classes and practice tests. These programs can help you prepare for the exam and assess your readiness.
- Private Test Prep Companies: There are some private companies that offer HiSET practice tests and prep materials for a fee. However, these are not officially affiliated with the HiSET exam.
When taking HiSET practice tests, keep the following in mind:
- Practice tests should be taken under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience.
- Scoring well on practice tests (in the “green” zone) is a good indicator that you are ready for the real HiSET exam.
- Reviewing your practice test results can help you identify areas that need more study before test day.
- Taking practice tests is a crucial part of preparing for the HiSET in Montana. They will help boost your confidence and chances of passing the exam on the first try.
Montana GED Online
In Montana, you have the option to take the GED test online. This online test is supervised by a virtual proctor who remotely monitors your exam using specialized software.
To get started, you’ll need:
- Valid ID: A valid, unexpired government-issued ID
- Private Workspace: A quiet, private space free from distractions
- Reliable Computer: A reliable computer with a webcam and internet connection
- GED Preparation: Complete a GED preparation course and pass the GED Ready practice test with a “green” score within the last 60 days
Before your test, ensure you have:
- Computer Setup: A computer with a webcam, reliable internet, and a private workspace
- ID Verification: Log into your GED.com account at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam and verify your ID, workspace, and computer
On test day, follow these steps:
- Log In Early: Log in to your GED.com account 30 minutes before your scheduled exam
- Verify Setup: Verify your ID, workspace, and computer setup
- Start the Test: You’ll be ready to take the official GED test online within 60 days of earning your “green” practice score
Access our free practice test questions to get started on your GED preparation journey.
GED Testing Centers Montana
With numerous official testing centers located throughout Montana state, candidates can easily find a convenient location to take the test. Some of these GED testing centers include
Billings
Adult Education Ctr
415 N 30th St
Billings, MT 59101
(406) 281.5007
Bozeman
Bozeman Ed Center
404 W Main St
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 522.6012
Browning
Blackfeet Comm. Coll.
504 SE Boundary St
Browning, MT 59417
(406) 338.5441
Butte
Montana Technical Univ.
1300 W Park St
Butte, MT 59701
(406) 496.4477
Dillon
University of MT-Western
710 S Atlantic St
Dillon, MT 59725
(406) 683.7539/7143
Glendive
Dawson Comm. Coll.
300 College Dr
Glendive, MT 59330
(406) 377.9448
Great Falls
Great Falls College
2100 16th Ave S
Great Falls, MT 59405
(406) 268.6660
Hardin
Big Horn Co. Library
419 N Custer Ave
Hardin, MT 59034
(406) 665.9747
Havre
District IV Human Resources Council
2229 5th Ave
Havre, MT 59501
(406) 265.6743
Helena
UM-Helena Adult Learning Ctr
1115 N Roberts St
Helena, MT 59601
(406) 447.6389
Kalispell
Flathead Valley Comm. Coll.
777 Grandview Dr
Kalispell, MT 59901
(406) 756.3884
Libby
Flathead Valley Comm. Coll.
225 Commerce Way
Libby, MT 59923
(406) 293.2721
Livingston
Community Health Partners
112 W Lewis St
Livingston, MT 59047
(406) 823.6356
Miles City
Miles Community College
2715 Dickinson St
Miles City, MT 59301
(406) 874.6152
Missoula
Lifelong Learning Ctr
310 S Curtis St
Missoula, MT 59801
(406) 549.8765
Pablo
Salish Kootenai Coll.
58138 US 93 (#58)
Pablo, MT 59855
(406) 275.4868
Poplar
Ft. Peck Comm. Coll.
605 Indian St
Poplar, MT 59255
(406) 768.6330
West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone School
411 N Geyser St
West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646.7617
Alternatively, most students opt for the Pay for GED without Taking the Test service.
How to Prepare for the GED Test in Montana
The GED exam serves as an important credential for those who didn’t finish high school. Given the rising difficulty level of the GED, thorough preparation is key to attaining success.
In Montana, there are several options available to help you prepare for this test.
Montana GED Prep Online Classes
For those who prefer a more flexible approach or have limited access to community colleges, online GED prep programs like Prepsaret are available.
This program provides lessons, practice tests, and study materials designed for the GED exam. Accessible from home, these resources enable you to study at your own pace and convenience.
Moreover, Prepsaret offers detailed GED test prep notes online that help you grasp important knowledge and content to pass each of the GED tests. These notes provide a comprehensive understanding of the material, ensuring you are well-prepared for the exam.
We have simplified the process of preparing for your GED diploma by offering concise, captivating, and easily digestible lessons. Each lesson focuses on a single GED topic, ensuring that you don’t get overwhelmed or lost in complex subject matter.
Our targeted approach allows you to:
- Concentrate on one concept at a time
- Easily follow along and understand the material
- Avoid feeling lost or confused when tackling multiple topics simultaneously
- Progress at a steady pace without getting bogged down
This approach accommodates unique schedules, allows studying at your own pace, and more time for challenging topics as needed. With Prepsaret’s online GED study materials, you can effectively prepare for the exam and achieve your GED goals.
Online courses offer several benefits, including:
- Greater Flexibility: Study at your own pace and convenience, without being tied to a fixed schedule.
- Cheaper Package: We provide you with the cheapest GED prep package available
- No Commute: Save time and energy by learning from the comfort of your own home.
- Create Your Own Learning Schedule: Set your own schedule and pace, allowing you to learn when and how you want.
- Easy Access to Online Study Guides and Resources: Utilize a wealth of online materials, including study guides and resources, to support your learning.
- Learn at Your Own Pace: Progress at a speed that suits you, ensuring you fully understand each concept before moving forward.
Our online GED preparation programs allow you to study without disrupting your full-time work schedule or family responsibilities.
Attending Adult Education Programs
Montana has many adult education centers that offer free GED preparation classes. These adult education centers provide structured lesson plans, instructors, and a classroom environment to help guide your preparation for the four GED subject tests at no cost.
Many of Montana’s community colleges, technical universities, and local libraries also offer free GED classes through their adult education programs. You can contact them directly or check the Montana Office of Public Instruction website to find GED prep class locations near you.
Montana GED Practice Test
Taking practice tests is essential for evaluating your readiness and identifying areas that need further attention as you prepare for the GED exam in Montana. The Montana GED practice tests are designed to closely simulate the actual testing experience, helping you identify areas for improvement and build your confidence.
The Practice questions include:
- GED Math Practice Test
- GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Practice Test
- GED Social Studies Practice Test
- GED Science Practice Test
How Long Can It Take to Prepare for the GED Test?
Preparing for the GED test in Montana can take varying amounts of time depending on individual circumstances and learning styles.
Traditional Classes: In-person GED preparation classes typically meet for a set period, such as a semester, which can last several months. These classes provide structured instruction and practice, allowing students to work at their own pace under the guidance of an instructor.
Online Classes: Online GED preparation courses, like those offered by Prepsaret, provide flexible learning options that can be completed at any time. These courses are designed to be completed within a few months, with some students reporting success in as little as 2 weeks.
To excel in the test, it is crucial to develop a well-planned strategy and dedicate sufficient time to studying. Preparation requires dedication and effort.
Typically, it is advised to commit approximately 3 hours daily to studying. By maintaining this level of consistent commitment, one can become adequately prepared for the test in as little as a week.
GED Test Retake Policies and Costs in Montana
Retake Fees
Retaking at a Test Centre
You will be eligible for one discounted* retake for each GED® test subject purchased but not passed. This retake must be utilized within 365 days following your initial full-price test. The retake offer (1 full price: 1 discount) will continue until you successfully pass the test.
While GED Testing Service waives its $26 testing fee, please note that additional testing fees may still be applicable in your state. In Montana, there is a $10 test center fee for GED® test retakes.
Online Proctored Retakes
Online proctored retests are $36 per test, with no discount available.
Waiting Periods
In Montana, there is no waiting period for retesting at a Testing Center if you fail a subject area test on your first attempt. However, after three attempts, you must wait 60 days before retesting. There is no restriction on the number of times you can test within a year.
Montana GED Transcripts
To request a GED transcript in Montana:
- Contact Diploma Sender at 855-876-3774 or visit their website to order transcripts online.
- Provide your full name, date of birth, and any other required identification details.
- Specify that you need a transcript for the Montana High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma, which is the credential issued after passing the GED exam in Montana.
- Pay the required fee, which may vary but is typically around $10-15 per transcript.
- If requesting by mail, send a signed letter with your date of birth, clearly written name, signature, and prepaid return postage to:
High School Equivalency Program
Office of Public Instruction
PO Box 202501
Helena, MT 59620-2501
How Is the Montana GED Exam Scored?
The GED exam in Montana is scored on a scale ranging from 100 to 200. The scoring criteria are as follows:
- 100-144: Below passing score
- 145-164: High school equivalency score
- 165-174: College-ready score
- 175-200: College-ready score and up to 10 credits.
To pass the GED exam in Montana, test takers must earn an overall score of 580 on all four sections, with no section score falling below 145.
Creating a GED Account in Montana
To create or sign up for a GED account in Montana, follow these steps:
- Go to GED.com and click on “Sign Up” or “Create Account”.
- Assign an email address and create a password that meets the requirements (at least 8 characters, letters, and at least one symbol or number).
- Provide your personal information such as first, middle, and last name as shown on your government-issued ID, phone number, date of birth, and mailing address. Agree to the Candidate Agreement Policy.
- Choose whether you want to receive email and text updates, guidance, and support from GED.com (optional).
- Select Montana as your testing location.
- Indicate if you plan to enroll in GED classes and how you prefer to learn (online, in-person, books, etc.).
- Answer questions about your GED journey, such as if you’ve started studying, your reasons for getting a GED, and your test goal date.
After completing these steps, you will have successfully created your free GED account, which provides access to study materials, test scheduling, and other resources to help you earn your GED diploma in Montana.
GED Testing Information in Montana
Can I Take All Ged® Test Subjects in a Single Session, or Do I Need to Schedule Separate Appointments?
For those testing in-person at a Testing Center:
Yes, in Montana, you have the option to complete all test subjects on the same day, provided you can find a test center with hours that accommodate it.
For those opting for the Online Exam:
No, you need to schedule your test appointments separately, one at a time. Once you finish one online exam, you can then schedule another, subject to appointment availability.
GED Administrator in Montana
The GED administrators in Montana are:
Katie Madsen
High School Equivalency State Administrator
Office of Public Instruction
406-465-1341
Emily Fuller
High School Equivalency Program Specialist
Office of Public Instruction
406-594-3750
Mail:
High School Equivalency Program
Office of Public Instruction
PO Box 202501
Helena, MT 59620-2501
Montana GED Testing Accommodations
Montana offers accommodations on the GED test for test takers with disabilities or health-related needs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Available accommodations include:
- Extended time
- Separate testing room
- Audio format or recorded audio
- Large print
- Screen magnification
- Calculator or talking calculator
- Scribe or keyboard entry assistance
- Additional supervised break time
- Sign language interpretation for instructions
How to Request for an Accommodation
To request accommodations, you must submit documentation from a medical authority or learning institution describing your disability/limitation and the specific accommodation needed.
The documentation must be on official letterhead and include:
- Your name
- Description of disability and testing limitations
- Recommended accommodation
- Name, title, and contact info of the authority
You must create an account on GED.com, indicate you need accommodations, and submit the required forms. Requests typically take 30 days to process. If approved, you’ll receive instructions on scheduling your accommodated testing appointment.
Montana does not require approval for certain basic accommodations like transparent overlays, scratch paper, earplugs, unmarked straightedges, handheld magnifiers, cushions/footstools, and medical devices.
The accommodations process is handled by PSI for the GED test in Montana. You must work directly with PSI’s accommodations team to schedule if approved.
FAQS
How Do I Get a GED in Montana?
To get a GED in Montana, you must pass the four subject tests of the GED exam (Mathematics, Social Studies, Language Arts, and Science) or the five subtests of the HiSET exam (Mathematics, Social Studies, Language Reading, Language Writing, and Science).
The minimum age requirement is 16, but those aged 16-18 must meet additional criteria like being officially withdrawn from school and having parental consent. Montana residents can take the exams at designated testing centers or online, with online testing requiring passing the GED Ready practice tests first.
What’s the Difference Between HiSET and GED?
The HiSET and GED are both high school equivalency tests, but they differ in format and content. The HiSET includes five subtests: Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, while the GED has four subtests: Mathematical Reasoning, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning through Language Arts. Additionally, the testing methods and scoring systems vary between the two, offering different options for test-takers.
How Much Is the HISET in Montana?
The HiSET exam in Montana costs $100 for the complete battery of five subtests when taken online. Each individual subtest is priced at $20.
What Is the Fastest You Can Get Your GED?
In Montana, you can take the GED or HiSET exams to earn a high school equivalency credential. The fastest path would be to thoroughly prepare and take all four GED subtests or five HiSET subtests in one testing session.
With proper preparation through online classes or in-person instruction, dedicated students can potentially earn their GED or HiSET diploma within 1-3 months of beginning their studies.
Is Prepsaret's GED Prep Course Recognized by GED Testing Service?
Yes, Prepsaret's online GED prep course is recognized by GED Testing Service as 100% aligned with the current GED exam.
Is Prepsaret GED Prep Course Self-paced?
Yes, Prepsaret’s online GED prep course is completely self-paced, allowing students to study at their own pace and on their own schedule. There are no live classes or rigid schedules to follow.
How Long Does It Take to Complete Prepsaret’s GED Prep Course?
Prepsaret recommends studying for 1-2 hours per day, and most students are able to complete their GED prep within 1 month of using Prepsaret's course.