Thinking about earning your GED in Indiana? Great decision. Before you get started, it’s important to understand the Indiana GED Requirements so you can move forward with confidence. The GED offers a second chance to earn a credential that’s widely accepted by employers and colleges across Indiana and beyond.
How to get a GED in Indiana isn’t complicated once you know what to expect. This guide covers every requirement—age, residency, cost, and more. And here’s a tip: using trusted study tools like those from Prepsaret can boost your chances of passing the GED test Indiana on your first
General Indiana GED Eligibility Requirements
Before diving into the specifics, let’s cover the basic Indiana GED Requirements that all test-takers must meet:
- Not enrolled in high school – You cannot be currently enrolled in an accredited high school
- Not a high school graduate – You must not have already earned a high school diploma
- Age requirements – You must meet specific age criteria (detailed in the next section)
- Residency – You must be an Indiana resident
- Identification – Valid, government-issued photo ID required
- Pre-testing – Some testing centers may require pre-testing
Understanding these GED test Indiana requirements is essential before you begin the process. The state has established these Indiana GED eligibility guidelines to ensure that the credential maintains its value and recognition.
Indiana GED requirements for adults are generally straightforward – if you’re 18 or older, you simply need to meet the basic eligibility criteria listed above.
Adults have more flexibility regarding some of the requirements, particularly those related to age restrictions and mandatory education withdrawal periods.
Indiana GED Age Requirements
To get a GED in Indiana, age is one of the most important factors determining eligibility. The state has set specific guidelines about who can take the test based on their age:
Indiana GED Requirements for Adults(18 years and older):
- No additional documentation required beyond standard identification
- No mandatory waiting period after leaving school
- Full eligibility to test immediately
Indiana GED Requirements For minors (16-17 years old):
- Must be officially withdrawn from school
- Require signed consent from a parent or guardian
- Need an exit interview with school officials
- Must obtain a formal exit interview form signed by the principal
- May need to wait a minimum time period after withdrawing from school (typically 60 days)
- Must submit additional documentation to the testing center
These GED eligibility Indiana rules are strictly enforced at all testing centers throughout the state. For 16 and 17-year-olds, the process is more involved because the state aims to ensure that young people don’t leave the traditional education system prematurely without careful consideration.
If you’re under 18, you’ll need to work with your local school district to complete the proper withdrawal procedures. This typically involves meeting with school counselors who will explain the implications of leaving school and discuss alternative options that might be available to you before you commit to the GED path.
Check Out: How to Drop out of High-School Stress-Free
Some exceptional circumstances may allow for these requirements to be waived, such as if you’re:
- Emancipated minor with court documentation
- Under court order to obtain your GED
- In a state-approved alternative education program
Remember that even after meeting these age requirements, you’ll still need to satisfy all other eligibility criteria before you can register for the test.
Indiana GED Residency Requirement
Another crucial component of the Indiana GED Requirements is proof of residency. To take the GED test in Indiana, you must be a resident of the state.
To prove your Indiana residency, you’ll need to provide at least one of the following documents:
- Indiana driver’s license or state ID
- Utility bill in your name with an Indiana address
- Indiana voter registration card
- Military documents showing Indiana as your home of record
- Indiana tax return from the previous year
- Mortgage, lease, or rental agreement for an Indiana property
- Bank statement with an Indiana address (issued within the last 60 days)
The residency requirement ensures that individuals receive their credentials from the state where they live and prevents certificate seekers from “shopping around” for states with potentially easier standards.
States bordering Indiana, including Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky, have similar residency requirements for their own GED programs. If you live near a state border or have recently moved to Indiana, make sure you’re registering in the correct state based on your current permanent address.
In rare cases, temporary residents like military personnel stationed in Indiana or college students attending Indiana institutions may be granted exceptions to the standard residency requirement.
These situations are handled on a case-by-case basis, and you should contact the GED testing service directly if you believe you qualify for an exception.
How to Get a GED in Indiana
Once you’ve confirmed that you meet all the Indiana GED Requirements, the process of obtaining your credential involves several straightforward steps:
- Create an account – Register on the official GED website
- Study and prepare – Use official study materials or Prepsaret resources
- Take practice tests – Assess your readiness before paying for the official exam
- Schedule your tests – Select your preferred testing center and dates
- Pay the test fees – Indiana GED test costs $30 per subject for in-person testing, and $36 per subject if you choose the online option
- Take and pass the tests – Score at least 145 out of 200 on each subject
- Receive your credential – Access your certificate online or receive by mail
The GED test consists of four separate subject tests:
- Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes)
- Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes)
- Social Studies (70 minutes)
- Science (90 minutes)
You don’t need to take all four subjects at once – you can space them out according to your preparation level and comfort.
To pass, you’ll need to score at least 145 out of 200 on each subject test. If you don’t pass a subject, you can retake it, though there may be waiting periods and additional fees for retakes.
In Indiana, your GED credential is issued by the Indiana Department of Education and is officially recognized as equivalent to a high school diploma by employers, colleges, and universities throughout the state and across the country.
Indiana GED Study Materials and Preparation
Proper preparation is crucial to successfully pass the Indiana GED test. The GED is a challenging assessment that tests your knowledge and skills at a level comparable to that of graduating high school seniors.
Here are some of the best resources for your GED preparation:
- Official GED Practice Tests
- Prepsaret Study Materials – Comprehensive resources tailored specifically for the Indiana GED (Check out our Free GED+ practice questions)
- Indiana GED study guide resources – State-specific preparation materials
- Indiana GED practice test opportunities – Simulated exam experience
- Indiana adult education centers – In-person support and guidance
- Ivy Tech GED classes online free – Community college resources
While free resources are available, they often have limitations:
- Limited practice questions
- Minimal explanations for answers
- Few full-length practice tests
- Inconsistent quality of materials
- Less structured learning path
- General rather than personalized guidance
Advantages of Prepsaret Materials:
- Comprehensive content coverage for all subjects
- Detailed explanations for every question
- Multiple full-length practice exams
- Targeted review of weak areas
- Step-by-step learning paths
- Subject-specific subscriptions available
With Prepsaret, you can now subscribe and prepare for the specific GED subject that you’re studying for, allowing you to focus your time and resources on the areas where you need the most help.
Choose the GED subject you want to prepare for:
Our materials are designed specifically to align with the Indiana GED test format.
Many successful test-takers find that combining free community resources with quality paid materials like those from Prepsaret gives them the best chance of passing on their first attempt.
Find Out: Top 5 Best Resources for GED Preparation
Where Can You Take the GED Test in Indiana
Once you’ve prepared using quality study materials, the next step is knowing where to take the GED in Indiana. The state offers several testing options to fit your needs.
GED Indiana Testing Centers
You can take the GED test at official testing centers located across Indiana. These include:
- Adult education centers
- Community colleges (especially Ivy Tech campuses)
- Public libraries with testing services
- Workforce development offices
To find the closest location, visit the official GED website and enter your zip code. Note that all centers require advance registration and payment—walk-ins are not allowed.
Indiana GED Online Test
If you prefer not to test at a physical location, you may be wondering: “Can I take the GED test online?” The answer is yes! Indiana GED online test options are available through the official GED testing service with their Online Proctored (OP) GED test.
This option allows you to take the test from home, but you must meet specific technical requirements and pass a verification process.
For the online option, you’ll need:
- A computer with webcam and microphone (What Kind of Computer Do I Need to Take the GED Test Online)
- Stable internet connection
- Private, quiet testing space
- To pass an identity verification check
- To complete a room scan before testing
After completing your test, you can request Indiana GED verification through the official GED website. This service allows you to share your credentials electronically with employers or educational institutions.
Indiana GED vs. High School Diploma: Key Differences
Indiana GED vs high school diploma comparisons typically focus on these key differences:
Aspect | GED Certificate | High School Diploma |
Time to complete | Can be obtained in weeks or months | Typically takes four years |
Cost | Approximately $120 total test fee | Free public education |
Learning environment | Self-directed or classroom options | Traditional classroom setting |
Coursework breadth | Focuses on core academic subjects | Includes electives, arts, physical education |
Recognition | Widely accepted but sometimes with caveats | Universally recognized |
Military options | Accepted but may limit some specialties | Full range of military options |
College admissions | Accepted but may require additional testing or scores | Standard acceptance pro |
The Indiana GED certificate is officially recognized as a high school equivalency credential and is accepted by approximately 97% of colleges and employers. However, some highly selective colleges or specialized military programs may have additional requirements for GED holders.
This doesn’t mean that a GED is less valuable – many successful professionals have used their GED as a stepping stone to higher education and rewarding careers. The key is to understand the specific requirements of your intended path and plan accordingly.
Continue Reading: Top Most Paying Jobs With A GED
Indiana GED Requirements FAQs
What Is the GED Called Now in Indiana?
In Indiana, the credential is officially called the "Indiana HSE" (High School Equivalency) diploma, but it's still widely referred to as the GED since the state uses the GED test as its assessment instrument.
Can I Get My GED Without Taking a Test?
No, there is no way to get a GED credential in Indiana without taking and passing all four subject tests. There are no exemptions or alternatives to the testing requirement.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Your GED in Indiana?
The cost is $30 per subject test, totaling $120 for all four required subjects. Some financial assistance may be available through local adult education centers.
What Is the Fastest I Can Get My GED?
Technically, you could complete all four GED subject tests in as little as 1-2 days if you're well-prepared. However, most students take several weeks or months to prepare properly before testing.
Can You Take the GED Online in Indiana?
Yes, Indiana offers the option to take the GED test online with remote proctoring, allowing you to test from home if you meet the technical requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Get a GED in Indiana?
The time required varies depending on your starting knowledge level and study habits. Some complete the process in weeks, while others may take several months. Check out how to pass the GED test in 8 weeks for an efficient study plan.
Is the GED Free in Indiana?
No, the GED test itself costs $30 per subject. However, preparation resources may be available for free through adult education centers and online resources. Some centers also offer GED prep classes in Indiana that are free or low-cost.
Indiana GED Requirements Conclusion
With a clear understanding of the Indiana GED Requirements and a strong preparation plan, you’ll be well-equipped to earn this respected credential. Earning your GED is more than a test—it’s a gateway to better job opportunities, higher education, and a more secure future.
The key to success lies in using the right resources. Study programs like Prepsaret are designed to help you pass the GED test on your first try—saving you time, reducing stress, and building your confidence. Don’t wait to take control of your future. Start your GED journey today with Prepsaret and move confidently toward your goals.