GED in Texas: Registration, Requirements, Cost & More

Want to get a GED in Texas? As the main high school equivalency test offered in Texas, the GED exam offers a chance for Texans to showcase their academic abilities and demonstrate a level of knowledge equivalent to that of a high school graduate.

The high school equivalency exams have specific eligibility requirements, including exceptions for younger test-takers, and individuals can easily register and schedule their tests through a dedicated online system.

For many individuals, understanding the GED vs high school diploma in Texas is crucial when deciding whether to pursue the GED exam. While both credentials signify educational attainment, the GED offers flexibility for those who may not have completed high school through traditional routes.

GED Requirements in Texas

To take the GED in Texas, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Applicants must not already possess a high school diploma or equivalent credential.
• Applicants must not be currently enrolled in another educational program.
• The minimum age for GED testing in Texas is 16 years old. However, test-takers who are 16 or 17 years of age must meet additional requirements, such as obtaining permission from their school district and having parental consent. 16-year-old applicants may also qualify if they submit a court order indicating that GED testing is required or allowed.
• Test-takers must be residents of the state of Texas.
• While taking a GED test prep course or attaining passing scores on the GED Ready test is not mandatory in Texas, it is highly recommended to ensure a successful outcome, especially when taking the exam online.

The GED is one of the high school equivalency exams available in Texas. Eligibility requirements include not having a high school diploma and being a resident of Texas. Registration and scheduling for the GED can be easily done through a dedicated online system.

It is also important to note that applicants must pass all four subjects to earn their GED credential.

What are the Age Requirements for a GED in Texas?

The eligibility requirements for taking the Texas high school equivalency exams vary by age. In Texas, the minimum age to take the GED test is 16 years old, but applicants who are 16 or 17 must meet additional requirements.

Specifically, they need to be officially withdrawn from high school and must obtain permission from their school district as well as written consent from a parent or guardian.

Additionally, 16-year-olds may qualify if they have a court order allowing them to take the GED or are enrolled in specific programs like Job Corps. All test-takers must also be residents of Texas and cannot be currently enrolled in another educational program.

How to Get a GED in Texas at 16

The minimum age for GED testing in Texas is 16 years old. However, test-takers who are 16 or 17 years of age must meet additional requirements, such as obtaining permission from their school district and having parental consent. 16-year-old applicants may also qualify if they submit a court order indicating that GED testing is required or allowed. The GED is one of the high school equivalency exams available to 16-year-olds in Texas, and they must meet these specific eligibility requirements to register.

Age Exceptions

People under the age of 18 in Texas are typically required to attend school unless they meet specific Texas GED requirements outlined in the Texas Education Code, including eligibility for high school equivalency exams.

For 17-year-olds seeking to take the GED test, they can qualify for an age exception if they:

• Possess a government-issued photo ID.
• Provide proof of Texas residency.
• Confirm they are not currently enrolled in school (unless in an approved in-school High School Equivalency Program).
• Do not hold an accredited high school diploma.
• Have parental or guardian permission.

For those seeking information on how to get a GED in Texas at 17, the process is similar but slightly more flexible than for 16-year-olds. With proper documentation, such as school withdrawal forms and parental consent, 17-year-olds can register for the GED exam.

Additionally, a 17-year-old can qualify under the 16-year-old rule, which requires the same documentation but offers alternative qualifications such as:

• Being in the care of a state agency.
• Under a court order issued under Family Code 65.103 (a) (3).
• Enrolled in a Job or Corps training program,
• Enrolled in the Texas Challenge Academy.

How to Get your GED in Texas Online

In the state of Texas, students can now get your GED in Texas through a convenient online format. However, to qualify for this online testing, they must first achieve passing scores, known as the ‘green’ zone, on the official GED Ready practice test. The GED is one of the high school equivalency exams that can be taken online in Texas, and individuals can easily register and schedule their tests through a dedicated online system.

The GED exam consists of four independent sub-exams, and for each sub-exam, students are required to purchase a GED Ready test for $6.99 from the GED.com website. This practice test helps ensure they are adequately prepared for the actual exam.

To take the online GED test from the comfort of their home or workplace, test takers are advised to thoroughly test their system beforehand. This includes ensuring they have a reliable computer, webcam, stable internet connection, and a quiet workspace area to minimize distractions during the exam.

How to Get Your GED in Texas for Free

Free online GED classes in Texas are important for adults seeking to earn their high school equivalency diploma, offering flexible learning opportunities that accommodate various schedules. These free classes help prepare for high school equivalency exams like the GED.

These classes are particularly important as they provide access to education for those who may have faced barriers in traditional schooling.

Notable programs include Prepsaret’s Free GED Classes Online, which offers and practice tests, and Texas Tech University’s pilot program, which provides free classes and GED test preparation funded by federal grants. Prepsaret is one of the best GED prep courses in Texas.

Additionally, the Harris County Department of Education offers free online and in-person classes, ensuring that all students have the resources needed to succeed. Such initiatives empower learners to improve their career prospects and pursue further education.

How to Get Your GED in Texas Online

To obtain your GED online in Texas, start by preparing with Prepsaret’s online GED Test Prep resources, which offer engaging video lessons and Texas GED practice tests tailored for each subject area. These resources help you build essential skills in Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, ensuring comprehensive preparation.

After studying, register for the GED Ready practice tests on GED, as achieving passing scores is a prerequisite for taking the actual GED test online. The online test costs $42.25 per subject, totaling $169, plus an additional $28 for the practice tests.

The GED is one of the high school equivalency exams that can be taken online in Texas. You can easily register and schedule your tests through the dedicated online system on GED.

Once you pass the four subtests, you will receive a Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency, validating your achievement and opening doors to further educational and career opportunities.

Texas GED Test Registration Process

To register for the GED tests in Texas, follow these steps:

1. Visit www.ged.com and create an account with GED® Testing Service (GEDTS). Ensure to use an email you frequently check as your GED certificate will be sent via email.
2. Click on “Schedule Test” and choose one or two subjects at a time to maximize available dates and times. Selecting all four Texas GED test subjects simultaneously may limit available dates.
3. Process the payment of test fees online during registration.
4. Check your email for any additional information provided by GEDTS before the test date.

This registration process also applies to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

Candidates with specific conditions or impairments can request special accommodations during registration via www.ged.com. Accommodation requests are typically processed within 30 days.

GED Prep in El Paso Texas

Free GED classes in Texas, such as those offered in El Paso, play a crucial role in providing educational opportunities for adults. These GED programs in Texas not only enhance individual career prospects but also contribute to the overall workforce development in the community. These prep programs help prepare for high school equivalency exams like the GED.

Notable examples include the El Paso Public Library’s Career Online High School, which offers scholarships for adults to earn an accredited high school diploma online, paired with academic coaching.

Additionally, the El Paso Community College provides GED preparation courses that focus on essential skills in math, reading, and writing, available in both online and hybrid formats.

The San Jacinto Adult Learning Center also offers free GED classes in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for diverse learners.

Texas GED Online Classes

In Texas, aspiring GED candidates have the flexibility to prepare for the exam through a variety of options. Online GED classes provide a convenient and accessible learning experience, allowing students to study at their own pace and on their own schedule. These online classes help prepare for high school equivalency exams like the GED.

These online GED programs in Texas cover all the necessary subject areas – including mathematical reasoning, language arts, social studies, and science – through engaging video lessons and practice tests.

By mastering the content and strategies taught in these online courses, students can develop the skills and confidence needed to excel on the GED exam. Additionally, the GED Ready practice test serves as a valuable tool to gauge readiness and identify any knowledge gaps prior to the official assessment.

Once students achieve a passing “green” score on the GED Ready, they can then register and take the GED test online from the comfort of their home or at a nearby testing center. This flexible approach empowers Texas residents to earn their high school equivalency credential while balancing other life commitments.

Austin Texas GED classes

GED classes in Austin, Texas, are essential for individuals seeking to earn their high school equivalency diploma. Various GED programs in Texas cater to diverse learning needs and schedules, making them accessible to a broad audience. Various types of classes are available, including live, virtual, and one-on-one tutoring sessions. These classes help prepare for high school equivalency exams like the GED.

The average cost for GED classes ranges from $210 to $378, depending on the specific course and institution, with financial aid options available for qualifying students. Notable institutions offering GED classes in Austin include Austin Community College, which provides free classes, and South Texas College, which offers structured courses with financial support.

These programs cater to diverse learning needs and schedules, making them accessible to a broad audience. Similar to these GED programs in Austin, Dallas Texas GED programs offer a range of classes and resources designed to help adults achieve their academic goals.

Check out: GED Prep Classes in Texas

GED in Houston Texas

For residents of Houston, Texas, GED programs offer a valuable pathway to educational advancement. GED in Houston, Texas, provides access to free or low-cost classes, enabling individuals to work toward achieving their educational goals. These programs also help prepare for high school equivalency exams like the GED.

Organizations such as the Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) offer free GED preparation classes that cover essential GED test subjects. These classes are available both virtually and in-person at various locations, such as the Adult Education Learning Center on Irvington Blvd.

Additionally, Houston Community College offers free GED classes across multiple campuses, ensuring that individuals can find convenient options to fit their schedules. These programs not only provide instruction but also include free class materials and test vouchers, making it easier for participants to achieve their high school equivalency certificate.

GED Certificate in Texas

To obtain official Texas GED certificates, transcripts, and verifications, you can visit the Texas Certificate Search website.  This online platform allows you to request a free verification letter or purchase a PDF containing the Certificate of High School Equivalency, which includes your test scores for a nominal fee. The GED certificate is awarded upon passing high school equivalency exams.

The PDF features a diploma-style certificate suitable for framing and a transcript detailing your test dates and scores. The PDF can be conveniently saved to your computer or electronic device, emailed to yourself or third parties, and printed as needed. Payments can be made securely using a credit card or through an automated clearing house (ACH) check.

It’s important to note that colleges and employers should obtain verifications and certificates directly from the Texas Certificate/Transcript Search, as the Texas Education Agency (TEA) no longer sends these documents via mail, fax, or email. If the search returns “No Records Found,” you can create a Help Desk ticket to request a record search.

GED Testing Centers in Texas

Texas offers a network of approved GED testing centers that provide a convenient and accessible way for people to take the Texas GED test and earn their high school equivalency certificate. Where can I take the GED test in Texas? Test-takers can find authorized GED testing centers across the state, ensuring they have access to convenient locations. These centers also administer high school equivalency exams like the GED.

Additionally, Texas GED test schedule and locations are available online, allowing test-takers to plan accordingly and find a testing center near them. These centers are strategically located throughout the state, ensuring that test-takers have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Below is an overview of various testing centers across the state, categorized by city for easy reference.

Additional Locations

These locations also administer high school equivalency exams like the GED.

GED Testing Fees in Texas

The Texas GED cost includes fees for each of the four test modules. In Texas, the cost for the GED exam varies depending on the testing format. When taken at a state-designated testing center, the price is $36.25 per individual GED subtest, or $145 for the full battery of four subtests.

However, if the GED exam is taken online, the  GED in Texas cost increases to $42.25 per subtest, or $169 in total. Additionally, online test-takers must also purchase four GED Ready practice tests at $6.99 each, bringing the total online GED cost in Texas to $197. These costs apply to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

Texas GED Test Retake Policies

In Texas, test takers have the flexibility to retake the GED subject tests without any restrictions for their initial two attempts, whether they choose to test in-person at an official GED test center or opt for the online proctored exam.

However, if a test subject is not passed after the third try, a mandatory 60-day waiting period is enforced before the next retake can be scheduled. This policy applies to both in-person and online testing formats.

It’s important to note that there is no limit to the number of times a test subject can be retaken within a year, as long as the 60-day waiting period is observed after the third and subsequent attempts. This allows test takers ample opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge and earn the Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency. These retake policies also apply to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

The Cost of GED Retakes in Texas

For those taking the GED test in Texas in-person at a Testing Center, you are eligible for two discounted retakes for each GED test subject purchased but not passed. These retakes must be used within 365 days after your initial full-price test. After utilizing two retakes at a reduced price, the test subject’s cost reverts to the regular price.

If you do not pass the subject after the discounted retakes, you will receive two more retakes at the reduced rate. While the GED Testing Service waives its $20 testing fee, Texas imposes a $16.25 test center fee for retakes. These retake costs apply to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

On the other hand, for those opting for the Online Proctored Exam in Texas, the cost for a retake is $42.25, and discounted retakes are not available for this format

Composition of the GED Test

The GED exam is a computer-based test consisting of four independent modules covering:

• Social Studies
• Science
• Math
• Language Arts

It is the most widely recognized high school equivalency credential, accepted by the vast majority of postsecondary institutions and employers across North America. The GED is one of the high school equivalency exams available in Texas.

The Texas High School Equivalency Program (HSEP) is designed for at-risk students who have fallen behind in their high school education. The program allows eligible people, at least 16 years old and two years behind their graduating class, to earn a Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency (TxCHSE) by passing one of the approved exams.

GED Passing Scores in Texas

The GED tests are scored on a scale from 100 to 200 points, with different score ranges corresponding to various performance levels. To pass the GED, a test-taker must score at least 145 points on each of the four subject tests (Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Social Studies, and Science).

This passing score indicates that the individual has demonstrated high school equivalency-level skills and knowledge. These passing scores apply to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

A Breakdown of the GED scoring

It’s important to note that scoring is based on the number of points earned in each section rather than the number of questions answered correctly.

• College Ready: Scoring between 165-174 points on a subject test results in a “College Ready” designation, suggesting that the test-taker may not need placement testing or remediation before beginning a college degree program.
• College Ready + Credit: Achieving a score of 175 or higher on a subject test earns the “College Ready + Credit” designation, which could translate to college credits, depending on the institution’s policy, potentially saving time and money during the person’s college education.

Different questions have varying point values, and the number of questions may vary from one test form to another. The total number of raw points available on each subject test ranges from 40 to 65, depending on the subject. This scoring breakdown applies to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

To ensure a passing score, test-takers are encouraged to take the GED Ready Official Practice Tests as a final step before scheduling their actual GED test. These practice tests are available through the MyGED™ portal.

How to Prepare for the Texas GED Test

Preparation involves understanding the Texas GED test subjects tested, finding study materials, and familiarizing yourself with the GED in Texas requirements. Accessing study materials from libraries and bookstores is a common starting point, with many preparation books offering Texas GED practice test to gauge readiness for the exam. These preparation steps also apply to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

These practice tests are invaluable in assessing one’s knowledge and identifying areas that may need further review. Additionally, the GED Preparation Resources page provides valuable information to aid in effective preparation.

For those seeking structured guidance, contacting the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) at 800-441-READ (7323) or utilizing the Adult Ed Program Search online can help locate preparation programs in their area. By utilizing these resources, people can enhance their readiness and confidence for the GED test.

How Long Does it Take to Get a GED in Texas?

The timeline varies depending on several factors, such as the individual’s prior knowledge, study habits, and the number of times the person needs to retake any sections of the exam. On average, students can expect to spend a few months preparing for the GED exam. This timeline also applies to high school equivalency exams like the GED.

After completing preparation, the actual testing process can typically be completed within a week, depending on scheduling. The recommended GED preparation period varies depending on individual circumstances.

While some students may require three months or more to feel adequately prepared, it is crucial to commence the testing process only when you possess a strong grasp of the material. By dividing your studies across multiple weeks or months and incorporating breaks during study sessions, you can maintain a fresh and focused mindset.

To optimize your preparation, begin by taking practice tests to identify areas that demand more attention and those in which you excel. This strategic approach will ensure you make the most of your study time and increase your chances of success on the GED exam.

The Importance of official GED Ready Practice Tests 

The GED practice test plays a crucial role in preparing candidates for the official GED exam, particularly for those opting to take the test online. The GED Ready practice test is a crucial tool for preparing for high school equivalency exams, including the GED. While it is not mandatory for in-person testing at a designated center, the practice test serves as a valuable tool for all GED candidates to assess their readiness and identify areas that require further attention.

By taking the GED Ready practice test, candidates can gain valuable insights into the format, content, and difficulty level of the actual exam, allowing them to develop targeted study strategies and improve their chances of success.

Moreover, for those testing online, the practice test serves as a gateway, ensuring that candidates are well-equipped to navigate the digital platform and familiarize themselves with the testing environment before attempting the official exam.

By making the GED Ready practice test a requirement for online testing, the GED Testing Service emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and provides a reliable measure of a person’s readiness to take on the challenges of the official GED exam.

FAQs