South Carolina GED Requirements

So, you’re thinking about taking the GED in South Carolina—great choice! Whether you’re chasing a college dream, looking to land a better job, or just want to finish what you started, getting your South Carolina GED certificate can open a whole new world of opportunities.

In South Carolina, the GED is a second chance at success. It stands for General Educational Development and is a high school equivalency test. Pass it, and you’ll have the same academic credentials as someone who earned a traditional high school diploma.

Before you dive in, there are a few things you’ll need to know: Who can take the GED? How old do you need to be? What paperwork do you need? And of course, what will it cost?

Prepsaret got all the answers, laid out in plain English—no jargon, no stress. Ready to get started? Let’s break it down so you can start prepping for your future today.

Eligibility Criteria for Taking the GED in South Carolina

Let’s start with the basics. To take the GED in South Carolina, you need to meet a few general rules set by the South Carolina Department of Education.

You qualify if:

You do not have a high school diploma from any accredited U.S. school
You are not currently enrolled in a K–12 school program

So, if you’re an adult or a teen who has left high school behind, this might be your perfect next step. You can begin by exploring free online GED classes in South Carolina, which are a great way to get started without spending a dime.

If you’re still in high school—even if you’re not attending regularly—you can’t just sign up for the GED. You’ll need to formally withdraw from school first. We’ll talk more about that below.

Continue reading: Do I Have To Take Classes To Get My GED?

Who Can Take the GED Without a High School Diploma?

If you never finished high school, don’t worry—you’re exactly who the GED was designed for.

You must be officially withdrawn from any high school before you can register for the GED in South Carolina. That means getting a withdrawal form from your old school or school district.

Already enrolled in an adult education program? Good news! You can still take the GED as long as you meet all other requirements. Many adult education centers also provide a South Carolina GED study guide and practice materials to help you prepare.

The bottom line: If you’re no longer in high school and you’re ready to move forward—you’re good to go.

Age Requirements for the South Carolina GED Test

In South Carolina, the minimum age to take the GED is 16—but there are some extra steps for younger test-takers. These are part of the GED age requirements in South Carolina that help ensure readiness and parental support.

There’s no maximum age limit. If you’re 30, 50, or 65, it’s never too late.

However, your age does affect how you register and what approvals you may need. If you’re 18 or older, you can usually sign up with just a valid ID. But if you’re under 18, keep reading.

GED Rules for 16- and 17-Year-Olds in South Carolina

If you’re 16 or 17, South Carolina says you can take the GED, but only if you follow a few extra steps.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Proof you officially withdrew from high school
Signed permission from a parent or legal guardian
Approval from the South Carolina Department of Education

The state wants to make sure you’re making an informed decision—and that your family and former school are involved.

The process isn’t hard. It just takes a little paperwork. Once you’re approved, you’re ready to test. And don’t forget—there are free GED requirements in South Carolina that may help cover the cost or provide support services.

Related blog post: Indiana GED Requirements

Residency Requirements for GED Testing in South Carolina

Here’s some good news: You do NOT have to be a South Carolina resident to take the GED in South Carolina.

Whether you just moved here or you’re planning to test while visiting, you can register—as long as you meet the other requirements.

However, if you plan to take the GED online SC (South Carolina’s online GED option), you must live in South Carolina and provide proof of residency.

That can include:

A driver’s license or state ID with a South Carolina address
A utility bill or lease with your name and SC address

Always double-check with the testing service to make sure your documents qualify.

Required Documents and Identification for South Carolina GED Candidates

When test day comes, you don’t want to be turned away at the door—so make sure you have the right ID and documents ready to go.

To register for the GED, you’ll need:

A valid, government-issued photo ID
Your school withdrawal form (if under 18)
Consent paperwork and state approval (if under 18)

Acceptable Forms of ID for GED Testing in South Carolina

Your ID must be:

Current and not expired
Include your full name, photo, and date of birth

Accepted IDs include:

South Carolina driver’s license
State photo ID card
Passport
Military ID
U.S. Permanent Resident Card

If your name on your ID doesn’t match your GED account—maybe you got married or changed your name—bring official name change documents like a marriage certificate.

If your ID is missing or expired, you won’t be allowed to test, so be sure to double-check everything before test day.

Read on: GED in South Carolina

South Carolina GED Testing Fees and Payment Policies

Let’s start with the money stuff — because we know that matters.

Current GED Test Costs in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the GED is made up of four subject tests:

Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)
Mathematical Reasoning
Science
Social Studies

Each subject test costs $37.50, which means the full South Carolina GED cost totals $150 if you take all four. Not too bad for a ticket to better opportunities, right?

Do Retakes Cost More?

Good news. Your first two retakes for each subject are free if you complete them within 12 months of your original test date. After that, you’ll pay $37.50 per subject again.

Keep in mind: Some SC GED testing centers may charge a small fee (around $6) for in-person retakes, even when the GED test fee is waived. Always double-check when you schedule.

How to Pay for Your GED Test

Paying is easy and secure. Here’s how:

Log in at GED.com
Choose your test subjects
Pick your testing method (in-person or online)
Pay with a credit or debit card

Once you’ve paid, you’re officially on your way to earning your South Carolina high school equivalency credential.

Fee Waivers and Discounts Available in South Carolina

If the cost of the test is stressing you out, don’t worry — there’s help available.

Who Qualifies for a Fee Waiver?

You may qualify for free or discounted GED testing in SC if you:

Are enrolled in an adult education program in South Carolina
Meet income eligibility guidelines
Receive government benefits like SNAP or TANF
Are unemployed or facing financial hardship

How to Apply for a Waiver

To apply:

Contact your local adult education center
Provide any required documentation (such as proof of income or government assistance)
If you qualify, you’ll receive a voucher or code to use when you schedule your test on GED.com

Community Support and Local Programs

Many GED eligibility South Carolina applicants receive financial support through local programs. Check with:

Your local school district’s adult education office
Community learning centers
Libraries that offer GED prep classes

These programs often also provide tutoring, study materials, and help with registration.

Learn more: The Financial Aid For GED

How to Register for the GED in South Carolina

Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to get a GED in South Carolina — it’s quick and easy.

Step-by-Step GED Registration Process

Go to GED.com
Create a free account with your personal details
Choose South Carolina as your testing state
Select the subjects you want to take
Choose your test method (online or in-person)
Pick a date and time that works for you
Pay for your test and confirm your appointment

That’s it — you’re officially on the path to earning your GED in South Carolina.

GED Preparation Resources in South Carolina

Not quite ready to take the test? No problem. There are plenty of resources across the state to help you prepare and feel confident on test day.

Free GED Prep Classes

Most adult education centers in South Carolina offer free GED prep classes. These classes are taught by experienced instructors and are open to adults preparing for the GED at their own pace.

You can find a class by visiting the South Carolina Department of Adult Education website or contacting your local school district.

Online GED Study Tools

If you’d rather study from home, there are great online options too. Check out:

GED.com’s official practice materials and study plans
Prepsaret GED Prep Course
Khan Academy and Prepsaret for math and science concepts
YouTube videos and flashcard apps like Quizlet

Online prep gives you the flexibility to study when and where it works for you.

Find out: How Can I Get My GED Online for Free?

Adult Education Centers

Your local adult education center can be a one-stop shop for GED success. They offer:

In-person and online classes
Tutoring and test-taking tips
Help with scheduling and fee waivers
Practice tests and progress tracking

To find a center near you, search for “Adult Education Center [Your City], SC” online or visit the South Carolina Department of Education website.

Prepare with Practice Tests and Free Resources

Success on the GED starts with preparation. Many adult learners benefit from taking a GED practice test to understand the format and difficulty level. Fortunately, you can find a South Carolina GED practice test free through local programs or online providers.

Additionally, using a South Carolina GED study guide can help you stay focused and organized, especially if you’re studying on your own. These tools are designed to match the official exam structure and give you the best shot at passing.

Where to Take the GED in South Carolina

Whether you prefer an in-person exam or online testing, there are several options for where to take the GED in South Carolina. SC GED testing centers are located in major cities and towns, including Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and more.

You can find a testing location near you by logging into your account on GED.com.

GED Passing Score in South Carolina

To pass the GED in South Carolina, you need a minimum score of 145 on each of the four subject tests. Scores are broken down as follows:

145–164: Passing / High School Equivalency
165–174: GED College Ready
175–200: GED College Ready + Credit

So whether your goal is to get your South Carolina high school equivalency credential or prepare for college, these benchmarks help guide your journey.

Ready to begin? Look for South Carolina GED testing centers near you or explore the GED online SC option if you prefer to take the test from home. Either way, take advantage of free online GED classes in South Carolina to build your skills and confidence.

This is your moment. With the right resources, determination, and guidance, that GED certificate is within reach.