With advancements in technology, the GED test can now be taken online from the comfort of your home. This option offers flexibility and convenience, making it easier for individuals to pursue their educational goals without needing to travel to a test center.
However, there are specific requirements and guidelines to ensure the integrity and security of the test. Understanding the eligibility criteria, technical requirements, and procedures for taking the GED test online is essential for a smooth and successful experience.
Can I Take My GED Test Online At Home?
Yes, with the Online Proctored GED test, students can take the GED test from the comfort of your home while being securely monitored by an online proctor. Despite conflicting information online, it’s important to know that taking the GED test at home is possible.
However, eligibility depends on your state of residence. No matter where you take the test, it must be administered by an official GED testing service and supervised by an online proctor to be valid.
Can You Take the GED Test Online?
Yes, it is possible to take the GED test online in many states and jurisdictions. The GED exam has been adapted for online administration, allowing test-takers the flexibility to complete the four subject tests from the comfort of their own homes or other approved testing locations.
The Online Proctored GED Test was launched in May 2020 and is available in select states and U.S. territories. Before this, students could only take the GED test at approved test centers. The online testing option was introduced to help students continue their testing amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as many test centers were closed or had limited appointments.
Currently, this option is not available internationally. However, it’s important to note that the online GED testing option may have specific requirements, such as using a compatible device, having a stable internet connection, and meeting identity verification protocols.
Interested individuals should check with their local GED testing center or the GED Testing Service website to understand the available online testing options and any necessary prerequisites in their area.
About Online Proctored GED (OP) Test
The Online Proctored Test allows students to take the GED exam from the comfort of their own home or a private, distraction-free location. This option provides flexibility and convenience for students who may have difficulty attending an in-person testing center.
To take the OP test, students must meet certain technical requirements, including a compatible computer, stable internet connection, and a private testing space. They are required to complete a system test and exam simulation before their scheduled appointment to ensure compatibility and familiarize themselves with the testing process.
On exam day, students must present valid identification that meets the requirements outlined by Pearson VUE, the company administering the OP test. They will be monitored throughout the exam by a proctor who can communicate with them via chat if needed.
The proctor ensures that students follow all rules and regulations, including maintaining a private testing environment and avoiding prohibited items. While the OP test offers many benefits, it also comes with some challenges.
Students may struggle with using the online whiteboard for math calculations, which can be more time-consuming than using a physical whiteboard in an in-person setting. Additionally, students with disabilities may need to complete additional forms or accommodations to ensure they can access the test effectively.
To prepare for the online GED test, students are encouraged to thoroughly review the tutorials and resources available on the GED website. They can also practice using the online GED test prep resources and become familiar with the testing format to minimize any issues on exam day.
What Circumstances May Affect Where You Should Take the GED Test?
Here are the key points on circumstances that may affect where you should take the GED test, including considerations for a busy schedule and job commitments:
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Job and Other Commitments
If you have a full-time job or other significant time commitments, an online GED test may be more convenient than traveling to a testing center. The flexibility of testing at home can help you fit the exam into your schedule.
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Distance From a GED Testing Center
Consider the convenience and accessibility of the testing center location. Look at factors like parking, traffic, and safety when choosing a center, especially if you have a busy schedule.
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Access to Secure and Reliable Internet Connection
If taking the test online, ensure you have a stable and secure internet connection. Poor internet could disrupt your testing experience, which is especially problematic if you have limited time to take the exam.
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What Time You Schedule Your Test
Try to schedule your test in the late morning or early afternoon to avoid issues like traffic jams or lunch rushes that could make you late, especially if you need to work around a job or other commitments.
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Home Environment
When testing at home, choose a quiet, clean, and distraction-free space with good lighting. Avoid areas with noise, clutter, or other disruptions that could impact your focus, especially if you have a busy household or work schedule.
First Step: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
The first step in taking the GED test from home is to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements can vary by state, but generally include:
- Age: Most states require you to be at least 18 years old to take the GED test, though some may allow 16 or 17-year-olds with additional requirements. Check your state’s specific age guidelines.
- Education Status: You must not currently be enrolled in high school and must not have already earned a high school diploma or equivalency credential. The GED is intended for those who did not complete their traditional high school education.
- Residency: Many states require you to be a resident of that state for a certain period of time, often 30 days or more, before you can take the GED test there.
In addition to these basic requirements, some states may have other eligibility criteria, such as passing a practice test or attending a preparation program before taking the full GED exam.
How Can I Check If I Can Take the GED Test from Home?
First, check if your state offers the online GED test. The online exam is not available in Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Some states also have specific eligibility requirements, such as age or the completion of a prep course before testing.
When you log in to your GED account, you will see a message about online testing and your eligibility. Be sure to thoroughly check the GED requirements for all the states that offer online GED testing.
Keep in mind that you need “green” GED Ready scores obtained within the past 60 days to schedule an online GED test. Without these scores, you cannot schedule the test online.
When taking the GED exam online, the number of attempts to achieve a passing score is limited compared to taking the test in person at a test center. If you fail a subject test twice, you must wait 60 days before retaking that subtest online. However, with proper preparation and regular study, the GED test can be manageable. Stay motivated and focused on earning your GED.
Second Step: Take the GED Ready Practice Test
Within 60 days of your scheduled online GED exam, you must take the GED Ready practice test and achieve a “Green” (Likely to Pass) score for each subject area you plan to test in. The GED Ready tests can be purchased on the GED.com website for $6.99 per subject.
The GED Ready practice test is designed to closely mimic the actual GED exam, with questions that are very similar in structure and content. Taking the GED Ready test will help you become familiar with the test format and identify any areas where you need to focus your studying.
The GED Ready test will provide you with a score that indicates how likely you are to pass the real GED exam. If you score in the “Green” range, it means you are likely to pass the GED test and can schedule your exam.
If you score in the “Yellow” range, it means you are close but may need some additional preparation. And if you score in the “Red” range, it indicates you are not yet ready and should spend more time studying before attempting the GED test.
Third Step: Schedule Your GED Exam Online
To schedule your GED exam online, follow these steps:
- Create a GED account: If you don’t have one yet, create a free account by providing some basic information about yourself. To create a GED account, first go to GED.com and click “Sign Up“. Enter your email address and create a password, then provide your personal information such as name, contact details, and where you plan to take the GED test. If you require testing accommodations, you can apply for them through the account creation process.
- Choose online GED testing: Decide whether you want to take the GED test online or at an in-person test center. If choosing online testing, make sure you meet all the technical requirements, including a compatible computer, webcam, and reliable internet connection. Run a system test to ensure your setup is compatible.
- Subject selection: Select the GED subject tests you want to take, such as Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science. You can take one at a time.
- Select date and time: Find an available appointment by selecting a date and time that works for your schedule. Consider how long you want to study and when you’re fully available to take the test.
- Payment: Agree to the testing policies and enter your payment information to complete the checkout process. Prices vary depending on your location. Make sure to check the cost of GED in your state.
- Email confirmation: Once your order is submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Be sure to log in 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment to launch your online exam.
Fourth Step: Prepare for your GED Test from Home
The GED exam measures skills and knowledge at the same level expected of graduating high school seniors. The passing standards for the four GED sub-exams are set so that approximately forty percent of high school graduates would not pass on their first try, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared!
In many areas, there is no requirement to take preparatory classes or practice tests before the real exam, but it is strongly recommended to be thoroughly prepared. You can attend a physical class or study with prep books from a community library or local bookstore.
Today, there are also well-structured online courses, such as Prepsaret’s online GED prep course. Prepsaret offers a premium course that helps you prepare for the challenging GED exam quickly and affordably.
Whether you register for a physical classroom or sign up for a comprehensive GED online prep course, make sure to get fully prepared and pass the four GED subtests one at a time, if you prefer. Keep reading for ideas on how to study, prepare, and schedule your test using online tools. Here are some of the best ways to prepare for GED at home:
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Enroll in an Online GED Preparation Course
Once you’ve taken some practice tests online and know what you need to study, an online GED preparation course can help you better understand the material. These courses typically offer comprehensive study materials, practice test questions, and personalized learning paths tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.
Online GED test prep courses also provide a structured learning environment, which can be particularly helpful for students who struggle with self-motivation or need additional support. Many courses offer real-time instructor support, allowing you to ask questions and get immediate feedback.
Additionally, these courses often include features like progress tracking, which helps you stay on top of your studies and identify areas where you need more practice. By enrolling in an online GED preparation course, you can gain a deeper understanding of the material and feel more confident when taking the actual test.
Before selecting a course, consider factors like the course’s reputation, the quality of its materials, and the level of support offered. By choosing the right course, you can set yourself up for success and achieve your goal of passing the GED test.
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Take Online Practice Tests
Online practice tests are an important way to identify your strengths and weaknesses as you prepare for the GED exam. These practice tests will help you to:
- know what areas you need to focus on in your studies and get you familiar with the GED testing process.
- feel more confident and prepared on testing day.
It’s recommended to try taking more than one online practice test to measure your progress over time. As your practice test scores continue to improve, you’ll know that your study habits and preparation are effective. We offer practice test for all the GED subjects:
- GED Science Practice Test
- GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Practice Test
- GED Social Studies Practice Test
- GED Math Practice Test
Access thousands of interactive questions that mirror the real test, complete with instant, step-by-step explanations to help you understand each answer. You can study anytime and anywhere with easy access from any device.
Focus on the specific skills you need to pass by practicing for just a few minutes at a time. Seeing your scores increase can be highly motivating and help you stay on track towards passing the GED.
Fifth Step: Set Up Your Testing Environment
For online testing, you’ll need a computer with a webcam, microphone, and reliable internet connection. Your testing space must be private, quiet, and free of any prohibited items like phones or calculators (an on-screen calculator is provided). Before scheduling and paying for the test, it’s important to run a system check to be sure that your computer meets the requirements.
The technical and system requirements for taking the GED test online are as follows:
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Computer and Webcam Requirements
To take the GED test online, you will need a computer (desktop or laptop) with a webcam and microphone. Chromebooks and mobile devices are not allowed.
The computer must meet the minimum technical specifications, including a 24-inch or larger monitor, a dedicated GPU, and a wired Ethernet connection. An external keyboard and mouse are also required, especially for candidates with font accommodations.
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Stable Internet Connection
A reliable high-speed internet connection is essential. A stable and high-speed internet connection is required to support the continuous video streaming necessary for online proctoring.
The minimum requirement is a 100 Mbps wired Ethernet connection, but a 1 Gbps connection is recommended. Wireless networks and mobile internet connections (3G/4G/5G) are strictly prohibited.
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Software and Security
Before taking the online GED test, you must download and install proctoring software that monitors your computer’s desktop, webcam, and audio. The Windows account used to install and run the software must have administrative rights. Anti-virus software must also be installed and kept up-to-date on all workstations.
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Testing Environment
The room should be well-lit, and your desk or workspace must be clear of any prohibited items, such as notes, books, or electronic devices not used for testing. During the test, the proctor will conduct a room scan using your webcam to ensure compliance with these requirements.
You will be required to verify your identity using a government-issued ID during the check-in process. Additionally, you must have taken and passed the GED Ready practice test within the last 60 days for each subject you wish to test online.
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System Check
There are specific technical checks and preparatory steps you need to complete before the test day. The GED Testing Service provides a system check tool on their website that allows you to verify that your computer meets all technical requirements.
You will also need to download and install the ProctorU extension for the Chrome browser, which facilitates the online proctoring process. Completing these checks well in advance ensures that you can address any potential issues before the day of your test, thereby reducing stress and allowing you to focus on performing your best.
Final Step: Take the GED Exam from Home
On test day, it’s important to be prepared and ready to go. Start by logging into your GED.com account at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This will give you enough time to go through the check-in process, which includes verifying your identity and ensuring your workspace meets the necessary requirements.
Once you’ve been cleared to begin the exam, the real work begins. The GED test is administered online and will be monitored by a proctor who will be watching you throughout the duration of the exam. This means you’ll need to remain vigilant and focused, following all the instructions provided to you. It’s crucial that you’ve thoroughly prepared and studied the material.
By staying calm, focused, and following the proctor’s guidance, you’ll be well on your way to successfully completing the GED exam from the comfort of your own home.
Is Calculator Required when Taking the GED Test at Home?
When taking the GED exam online, you are not allowed to use a physical calculator. However, you will have access to an onscreen TI-30XS Multiview Scientific Calculator that is identical to the handheld version. It is crucial to become familiar with this calculator before the exam by practicing with tutorials and reference sheets
When taking the GED exam online, you have access to an onscreen calculator that works the same as the hand-held TI-30XS version, an embedded scratchpad for calculations and note-taking, and an onscreen whiteboard for writing out math problems with your mouse.
You can also chat with a proctor for technical assistance, though they cannot answer content-related questions. These tools are provided by GED Testing Service to ensure a smooth testing experience.
What are the Online GED Testing Policies
- Consent and Consequences: When signing up for the online GED exam, you consent to being recorded and videotaped throughout the testing session. If you are caught cheating, you will face serious consequences, including the revocation of your exam, forfeiture of your payment, and a ban from taking the online GED exam in the future.
- Testing Room Requirements: Your testing room must be a private, walled space with a closed door. During the exam, no one else is allowed to enter the room under any circumstances. You are not permitted to leave the room once the test has begun.
- Prohibited Items and Behaviors: You are not allowed to talk, take physical notes, use a physical calculator, or use scratch paper. Covering your mouth, speaking out loud, or mumbling will result in an official warning. Watches, mobile phones, and personal items must be entirely out of reach. Smoking, chewing gum, and consuming food are strictly prohibited. Headphones and headsets (both Bluetooth and wired) are also not allowed unless you have explicit approval.
- Webcam Positioning: Once your online test session has started, you are not allowed to move your webcam. Any violation of these strict rules will lead to the revocation of your exam, the loss of your payment, and a permanent ban from taking the online GED exam in the future.
FAQs
Can I Prepare for GED from Home?
Yes, you can prepare for the GED exam from home using online resources and programs. Many accredited institutions offer online GED test prep courses, including live classes, study lessons, free practice test questions, and personalized study plans.
They typically include practice test questions to simulate the actual online GED tests. You can access these online GED prep materials on your computer, tablet, or mobile device to study at your own pace.
Advantages of Online GED Prep
- Flexibility to study from home on your own schedule
- Access to a wide range of digital learning resources
- Ability to get personalized feedback and support from instructors
- Opportunity to take practice tests that mimic the real GED exam
In What State Can You Take the GED Test online?
The majority of states now offer the option to take the GED exam online, including: Wisconsin, Washington, Virginia, Vermont, Utah, Texas, Tennessee, South Dakota, South Carolina, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Oklahoma, Ohio, North Carolina, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Nebraska, Montana, Mississippi, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Maryland, Kansas, Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Idaho, Illinois, Georgia, DC, Delaware, Connecticut, Colorado, California, Arizona, Arkansas, Alabama, Alaska
However, some states do not offer online GED testing, including New York, Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
What is the Fastest I Can Get my GED?
The fastest way to get your GED is to ensure you study well before taking the test. You should create your own schedule and ensure you follow. Start by taking a practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses, then enroll in an online program that provides best practice tests and other study materials.
Practice regularly with GED practice tests and quizzes to get comfortable with the exam format and build your confidence. With dedication and the right preparation, it is possible to earn your GED in as little as 2-3 months.
What is the Easiest Way to Pass the GED Test?
The easiest way to pass the GED test is to prepare thoroughly using online GED test prep resources. These resources offer a structured and flexible approach to studying, allowing you to focus on specific areas where you need improvement.
With thousands of interactive questions that mirror the real test, you can practice extensively and become familiar with the test format. Instant, step-by-step explanations help you understand each answer, ensuring that you grasp the concepts and can apply them effectively on test day.
Online courses like Prepsaret’s GED prep course provide comprehensive material that covers all four subtests, making it easier for you to study efficiently and at your own pace. Additionally, online GED test prep resources offer the convenience of studying anytime and anywhere, which is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules.
You can track your progress through practice tests, which help identify your strengths and weaknesses. This targeted approach enables you to focus your efforts on areas that need the most attention, increasing your chances of passing the test.
By consistently using these resources and maintaining a regular study schedule, you can build the confidence and knowledge required to pass the GED test successfully.