GED in Virginia

Earning a GED  in Virginia can be a life-changing achievement, opening doors to new career opportunities, higher education, and personal growth. You can take the Virginia GED test at a testing center or online. Whether you live in Virginia as a resident or non-resident, it’s helpful to find out how to prepare for your GED® exam and earn your diploma. 

To prepare for the GED test, people in Virginia have the flexibility to choose between online GED test prep classes and in-person classes, catering to different learning styles and preferences. Study for the Virginia GED online without having to attend class!

 Virginia GED

To obtain a Virginia High School Equivalency certificate, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Fairfax County or Falls Church City. Non-school aged learners must pay tuition of $80.00 per semester. 

The GED Virginia test is currently the sole HSE (High School Equivalency) examination approved by the state board. This test was created to allow people who did not graduate from high school to showcase the skills typically gained through a high school education. 

The current version of the Virginia GED test, introduced on January 1, 2014, assesses both high school equivalency and preparedness for college and careers. To enroll in the GED program, individuals must attend a registration event, achieve an approved score on an entrance placement test, and meet the registration requirements set by FCPS.

After fulfilling these criteria, you can sign up for the FCAHS HSE prep classes via the sign-up genius or by contacting the provided email. It’s important to note that attending a registration event does not guarantee admission into the test preparation opportunities. A placement test will be administered during the event to determine the best fit for learners.

The Virginia GED test consists of four subject tests: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Each subject assesses various skills, with specific time limits for completion. To pass the Virginia GED test, candidates must score at least 145 on each subtest, with scores ranging from 100 to 200.

The GED provides a pathway to earn a high school equivalency diploma, which can enhance employment opportunities, facilitate further education, and improve financial stability. Achieving a GED can also foster personal growth and confidence. There are many colleges and universities in Virginia that accept GED credential.

How to Get a GED in Virginia

Here are the key steps to get a GED test in Virginia:

• Eligibility: You must be at least 16 years old. If you are 16 or 17, you need to provide documentation signed by the superintendent or designee.
• Test Preparation: Prepare for the test through programs like Prepsaret, which offers online GED prep resources and classes.
• Registration: Register for the test on the GED.com website, create an account, and pay the test fee of $144 for the full exam or $36 per subject.
• Test Format: The GED test consists of four computer-based tests covering Science, Social Studies, Mathematics, and Language Arts. You can take the test at a state-designated testing center or online.
• Scoring: You need to score at least 145 on each of the four subject tests to pass and earn the high school equivalency certificate.
• Additional Requirements: If you are under 18, you may need additional documentation, such as a signed letter from your superintendent or designee, to confirm your eligibility.

It is possible to earn a Virginia high school equivalency certificate through the GED test in a relatively short time frame, such as 2-5 weeks.

GED Requirements in VA

Age Requirements

To take the GED exam in Virginia, you must be 18 years old. However, if you are 16 or 17 years old, you must meet additional requirements.

For those 16 and 17 Year Old’s:

In Virginia, you can take the GED® test if you meet certain eligibility requirements:

1. Homeschooled, Released from Compulsory Attendance, or Emancipated Minors: If you are at least 16 years of age and have been homeschooled, released from compulsory attendance, or are an emancipated minor, you must provide documentation signed by the superintendent/designee certifying that you have completed a home instruction program or have been released from compulsory attendance by the local school board.
2. Alternative Education and ISAEP: If you are in an alternative education program and have been granted an ISAEP (Individual Student Alternative Education Plan), you can take the GED® tests when the division superintendent/designee provides the Adult Secondary and ISAEP Programs for High School Equivalency with the completed GED® Options GED Testing Eligibility Form. ISAEP students must achieve a minimum score of 145 on each of the subtests of the GED Ready® before this form can be submitted.
3. Correctional Facility, Expelled from School, or Court-Ordered: If you are in a correctional facility, have been expelled from school, or have been court-ordered to participate in the GED® testing program, you must be at least 16 years of age and provide the appropriate documentation signed by the relevant authorities.

For those testing on the Online Exam, a parent or guardian must be present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize the underage tester to be recorded during testing. If the parent or guardian is not present, the exam session will be revoked.

Virginia does not have a residency requirement for taking the GED test – applicants do not need to be Virginia residents. The following are other states and territories that offer the GED test without requiring proof of residency:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Georgia
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Oklahoma
• South Dakota
• Utah
• West Virginia
• Wyoming

GED Tutoring Virginia Union University

Virginia Union University (VUU) offers GED tutoring as part of its commitment to educational access and community support. The university provides resources and guidance for individuals seeking to earn their GED, helping them prepare for the test through structured tutoring sessions and personalized instruction.

Students can benefit from the expertise of VUU’s faculty, who are dedicated to fostering academic success and ensuring that learners are well-equipped to pass the GED exam.

This support is crucial for those who may have faced challenges in traditional educational settings, allowing them to achieve their high school equivalency and pursue further educational opportunities. In addition to tutoring, VUU emphasizes the importance of a supportive learning environment that encourages personal growth and development.

The university’s programs are designed to not only prepare students for the GED test but also to instill confidence and motivation. By participating in GED tutoring at Virginia Union University, students gain access to valuable resources, including practice tests and study materials, which can enhance their chances of success.

Online GED Test Virginia

In Virginia, adults can take the Virginia GED test online, providing a convenient option for those seeking to earn their high school equivalency diploma from home. To qualify for the online test, candidates must first achieve a “Likely to Pass” score on the GED Ready practice test, which costs $6.99 per subject.

This flexibility allows students to take the test at their own pace while ensuring they are adequately prepared. To register for the GED online Virginia test, candidates must create an account on the official GED website, GED.com, where they can schedule and pay for their tests.

The online format includes a secure proctoring system, allowing students to take the exam from a quiet, private location with a reliable internet connection. This option is particularly beneficial for those balancing work or family commitments, as it eliminates the need to travel to a testing center.

Free GED Prep Classes in Virginia

Do you find that you learn better in an in-person classroom setting? You’re not alone! Many students perform better when they leave their home environment and attend classes in person. If you would rather learn in person, find a location near you and enroll in prep classes to prepare for the test. 

Disadvantages of In-Person GED Prep Classes

1. Limited Flexibility: In-person classes require you to attend scheduled sessions, which can be inflexible for those with work or family commitments.
2. Geographical Constraints: You must travel to the testing center, which can be a challenge for those living in rural areas or with limited transportation options.
3. Structured Learning: In-person classes can be structured, which may not suit people who prefer self-paced learning or need more flexibility in their study schedule.
4. Time Commitment: In-person classes require a significant time commitment, which can be difficult for those with other responsibilities.
5. Cost: In-person classes may be more expensive than online options, especially if you need to travel long distances or pay for childcare.
6. Limited Availability: In-person classes may have limited availability, especially in rural areas, which can make it difficult to find a suitable class schedule.
7. Distractions: In-person classes can be distracting, especially if you are not comfortable in a classroom setting or have difficulty focusing in a group environment.

Online GED Classes in Virginia

If you prefer studying online at home, online preparation is the best choice for you, you can conveniently study for the GED test at home, which is especially beneficial if you have many personal commitments, need to study early mornings, late nights, or around a full-time job. 

Plan to prepare for the GED® exam for at least 2–3 months. Online learning programs offer flexible schedules tailored to your needs, successfully preparing you for the exam. Study for your GED test online by using online resources and taking the GED practice test. 

Prepsaret offers detailed GED 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.

Prepsaret is the only home study course fully approved by the GED Testing Service. That’s why thousands of people have used our GED study guide to earn their GED Credential. It’s fast, easy, and accessible on your mobile phone. 

Check out: Free GED Classes Online

Virginia GED Practice Tests

Preparing for the Virginia GED test is crucial for students seeking to earn their high school equivalency diploma. One of the most effective ways to prepare is by utilizing online GED practice tests, which provide a convenient and flexible study option.

These Virginia GED practice test online simulate the actual exam experience, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the format and types of questions they will encounter. The availability of a GED practice test Virginia can be especially beneficial for those who may be hesitant to invest in paid resources before assessing their readiness.

By taking these GED practice test Virginia, candidates can identify their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to focus their study efforts more effectively. The Virginia GED practice test online covers all four subjects: Mathematics, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies.

Each subject is designed to assess the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the official GED exam in Virginia. It is highly recommendable to prepare for the GED Virginia test using these online GED practice tests, as they provide immediate feedback and explanations for each question.

Prepsaret offers comprehensive Virginia GED practice test resources for all four subjects:

• GED Social Studies Practice Test
• GED math practice test
• GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Practice Test
• GED Science Practice Test

These practice tests are particularly suitable for people with limited time for study, as they provide recently updated questions along with well-explained answers. The practice tests simulate the actual testing experience, allowing students to identify areas where they may need additional review or support.

GED Transcripts VA

Adults who have taken the GED test can request their Virginia GED transcripts and official GED certificates through the GED Credentialing™ website. As of January 1, 2014, the Virginia Department of Education no longer provides transcripts directly, so all requests must be made online.

The cost for ordering duplicate transcripts or official certificates is $15 per item. For those who took the GED test while in the military, different procedures apply depending on the date of the test, with specific instructions available through the GED Credentialing™ website.

For individuals needing to verify GED test results, such as state correctional facilities, a consent form must be faxed to the appropriate office. If you have questions about obtaining your GED credentials or need assistance, you can contact the Office of Adult Education & Literacy or the Virginia Adult Learning Resource Center’s toll-free helpline.

Virginia GED Fees

When taken at a physical testing center in Virginia, the full 4-subject GED exam costs $144 total, with each subject test costing $36. If taking the GED test online in Virginia, the total cost is also $144 ($36 per subject test).

To be eligible to take the online GED test, you must first pass the GED Ready practice test, which costs $6.99 per subject test (so $28 total for the 4 subject tests). This brings the total cost for the online GED test in Virginia to $172 ($144 for the exam + $28 for the GED Ready practice tests).

You can pay for the GED test online with a debit or credit card when you schedule your test. If you don’t have a credit or debit card, you can use American Express Bluebird as an alternative payment method.

Read on: Pay for GED Without Taking the Test

Virginia GED Testing Sites

To find GED testing sites in Virginia, you can:

1. Visit the official GED.com website and use the “Find a Test Center” tool. This will allow you to search for testing centers by city, zip code, or address.
2. Check the list of GED testing sites provided in the search results, which includes the following locations and addresses:

Here are some of the GED testing centers in Virginia:

• Abingdon: Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, 1 Partnership Circle, Abingdon, VA 24210
• Alberta: Southside Virginia Community College, 109 Campus Dr, Alberta, VA 23821
• Alexandria: Alexandria Adult Education Center, 1340 Braddock Pl, 7th Fl, Alexandria, VA 23214
• Annandale: Evergreen Academy, 7700 Little River Tpk, Annandale, VA 22003
• Appalachia: Appalachia Center for Workforce & Innovation, 3965 Kent Junction Rd, Appalachia, VA 24216
• Ashburn: Testing-Proctoring Center, 44075 Pipeline Plaza (Ste 115), Ashburn, VA 20147
• Bristol: Bristol Public Library, 701 Goode St, Bristol, VA 24201
• Cedar Bluff: Southwest Virginia Community College, 724 Community College Rd, Cedar Bluff, VA 24609
• Chantilly: Global Institute of Technology, 4100 Lafayette Ctr Dr (Ste 115B), Chantilly, VA 20151
• Charlottesville: Piedmont Virginia Community College, 501 College Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22902
• Chesapeake: Chesapeake Department of Adult Education, 369 S Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23322

Prepare for your GED exam test with our easy-to-access online GED prep notes. Get access to discounted practice tests, study notes, and prep tips, all available whenever and wherever you need them. 

Whether you’re taking your test at a testing center or online, our resources will help you feel confident and ready to succeed. 

Virginia GED Retesting Policies 

 If you do not pass the GED test on your initial attempt, you can retake the test to get a score above 145 points.

Waiting Period and Number of Retakes

For tests taken at a testing center:

• There is no waiting period for your first two retakes of a subject test.
• After taking a subject test 3 times, you must wait 60 days before retaking that subject again.
• You may retake each subject test up to 3 times per calendar year (January to December).
• After the third attempt, you must wait 60 days before your next attempt, allowing up to 8 testing opportunities per year.

For tests taken online:

• The retake policies for the online GED exam in Virginia are the same as the in-person testing center policies.
• You must wait 60 days after your second attempt on a subject before retaking it.

Regardless of testing format, you are only required to retake the subject tests you did not successfully pass. The passing score for each subject test is 145 or higher. There is no limit to the total number of retakes you can attempt.

Proper preparation will help you to avoid failing the test on your first attempt. You can easily pass your GED test in your first attempt if you study with us. Choose the smarter and faster path to getting your GED certificate with Prepsaret. 

Retake Cost 

Starting July 1, 2023, for in-person testing at a GED Testing Center, you will receive one discounted retake for each GED test subject you purchase but don’t pass.  You have 365 days after your full-price test to use this discounted retake, and this offer repeats until you pass the test.

The GED Testing Service waives its $26 testing fee, but a $10 test center fee applies for GED retakes in Virginia. Additionally, the limited-time offer of up to two discounted retakes for exams taken in test centers has been extended, provided both retakes are completed by June 30, 2024.

For online testing with the GED Online Proctored Exam, each retake costs $36 in Virginia. Unfortunately, discounted retakes are not offered for the online exam.

Virginia GED Transcripts

After passing the GED test, you will automatically receive one free electronic diploma and one free electronic transcript. However, to receive a free printed diploma, you will need to take additional steps.

Electronic Diploma and Transcript

Once you have passed all GED® test subjects and earned your diploma, download links for your electronic diploma and transcript will be emailed to the address associated with your GED® account. 

These links are only available for a limited time, so download your electronic documents right away. Follow the instructions in the email to access your PDF documents. These electronic credentials are valuable and can be forwarded to employers and colleges that accept them. 

The PDF documents are verified by GED Testing Service/Parchment each time they are opened using Blue Ribbon Security. The blue ribbon symbol in the PDF assures the authenticity of the digital credential.

Printed Diploma

You can order your printed diploma through your GED® account at GED.com. After logging in, go to “My Scores” and select “Order Duplicates.” Choose the “Diploma” option and then select the “Printed Diploma – Free” option.

Next, provide the recipient’s name and mailing address for the diploma. The free diploma link is available only until it is used and can be used only once. Carefully follow the instructions provided during the ordering process.

You can request your GED transcript and diploma through this link 

Virginia GED® Test Accommodations

Test accommodations are tailored to each individual and evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The GED Testing Service offers comprehensive information for both test takers and diagnosing professionals. 

If you have a disability, you can apply for accommodations to help you successfully complete the GED test. To do so, visit the GED test’s accommodations page and follow the instructions to submit your request.

FAQs

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