West Virginia officially discontinued the HiSET exam on August 1, 2024. The GED is now the only state-approved high school equivalency test in West Virginia. If you previously started HiSET testing but did not finish all subtests, you can combine your partial HiSET scores with GED scores via DiplomaSender
| Exam | Status in West Virginia |
| GED | ACTIVE — the only state-approved HSE exam since August 1, 2024. Free for eligible test-takers through state funding. |
| HiSET | ENDED August 1, 2024. Partial HiSET scores (subjects passed before 8/1/2024) can be combined indefinitely with GED scores via DiplomaSender. Contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833. |
| TASC | Ended previously. TASC scores from the 2014 series can also be combined indefinitely with GED scores via DiplomaSender’s Total Transcript program. |
If you are searching for a ‘West Virginia HiSET alternative,’ the answer is the GED. The WVDE has formally notified all test-takers via ETS that the HiSET is no longer offered. Existing myHiSET Test Taker Portal accounts remain accessible until further notice. All questions about the transition should be directed to the WVDE at (833) 627-2833.
Partial HiSET or TASC Scores: DiplomaSender Score Combination
| CRITICAL: Partial HiSET/TASC Scores CAN Be Combined with GED — Indefinitely
West Virginia allows students who passed some — but not all — HiSET or TASC subtests before those programs ended to combine their passing scores with GED subject scores via DiplomaSender’s Total Transcript program. This combination is available indefinitely. Once you have passed all subjects across the two exams combined, contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 to have your diploma issued. |
How Score Combination Works
- Identify which HiSET or TASC subjects you passed (check your myHiSET portal or contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833).
- Take the remaining subjects via the GED exam at a West Virginia adult education center. The free GED testing program applies to these remaining subjects.
- Once all subjects are covered between your HiSET/TASC scores and your new GED scores, contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 to initiate the diploma issuance process.
- Set up a DiplomaSender account at DiplomaSender.com (or call 1-855-313-5799) to receive your diploma and official transcript.
| HiSET-to-GED Subject Mapping
The HiSET has five subtests (Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies). The GED has four subjects (RLA combines Reading and Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies). If you passed HiSET Reading and/or Writing, those passing scores count toward your credential. Your WVDE coordinator and DiplomaSender will guide the exact mapping for your specific situation. Contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 for personalized guidance. |
What Is the West Virginia GED?
The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), Division of Adult & Technical Education, administers the GED program in West Virginia. The state has provided funding to cover the full cost of GED testing — making West Virginia one of only approximately four states nationally where GED testing is completely free for qualifying test-takers.
The credential — the State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma — is issued through DiplomaSender and mailed to you at no cost.
WVDE notes: ‘the issuance of the State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma provides [West Virginians] with the opportunity to demonstrate academic skills at a high school level of competency.’
West Virginia GED At-a-Glance
| Fact | Detail |
| Official credential name | State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma |
| Administered by | WV Department of Education (WVDE), Division of Adult & Technical Education |
| HSE Coordinator | Ellen Killion, Option Pathway/HSE Coordinator | (304) 558-2389 | Fax (304) 558-4874 | 1900 Kanawha Blvd., East Building 6, Suite 825, Charleston, WV 25305-0330 |
| Adult Education Director | Mendy Marshall | wvde.us/adult-education/ |
| WVAdultEd Hotline | 1-800-642-2670 — find your nearest adult learning center or get program questions answered |
| WVDE GED/HiSET Hotline | (833) 627-2833 — for HiSET transition questions and diploma issuance for score combination |
| Cost | FREE — state-funded; zero cost to test-taker for all four GED subjects |
| Free testing requirement | Must go to an Adult Education classroom, take and PASS the GED Official Practice Test (GED Ready) at an approved adult education or Option Pathway program |
| Enrollment required | REQUIRED — must enroll in adult education or Option Pathway program before scheduling. Adult Education instructor must assist with registration and scheduling. |
| Online GED testing | NOT AVAILABLE in West Virginia — in-person only at approved test centers |
| Residency required? | NO — no residency requirement to test in WV. Diploma issued as WV diploma if tested here. Distance education DOES require WV residency. |
| Standard minimum age | 19 years old; 16-18 with specific requirements; Option Pathway for students still enrolled in school |
| Languages | English and Spanish; can combine to earn credential |
| HiSET ended | August 1, 2024 — GED is now the only approved exam |
| Diploma/transcript delivery | DiplomaSender.com or 1-855-313-5799 — first diploma and transcript mailed free; replacements for a fee |
West Virginia’s FREE GED Testing Program
| West Virginia: One of ~4 States with Completely Free GED Testing
West Virginia state funding covers the full cost of GED testing for all qualifying test-takers. There is no cost to the test-taker for any of the four GED subjects. This makes West Virginia one of only approximately four states nationally offering truly free GED testing. The key requirement: you must first pass the GED Official Practice Test (GED Ready) at an approved Adult Education or Option Pathway program — practice test scores from home or outside an approved program are NOT accepted. |
Requirements to Access Free GED Testing
- Find your nearest Adult Education program: visit wvde.us/adult-education/ or call the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670.
- Enroll in the adult education program. You are required to enroll before you can schedule testing.
- Take the GED Official Practice Test (GED Ready) at the adult education center or Option Pathway program. Your Adult Education instructor will administer the practice test. Scores from home or outside an approved program are NOT accepted for WV’s free testing.
- Pass the GED Ready practice test with a qualifying score in each subject area.
- Your Adult Education instructor or Option Pathway instructor will assist you with the online registration and scheduling process. Do NOT complete online registration without passing GED Ready AND without the assistance of an Adult Education or Option Pathway instructor.
- Attend your in-person test at an approved WV test center. No online testing option.
| Critical Warning: Do Not Register Online Without Your Instructor’s Help
WVDE explicitly states: ‘Do not complete the online registration process without passing the GED official practice test or without the assistance of an Adult Education or Option Pathway Instructor.’ Attempting to register on your own before completing these steps can cause eligibility problems. Always work through your adult education program for registration. |
What if I Cannot Attend an Adult Education Classroom?
West Virginia’s adult distance education program provides flexible online preparation for WV residents who need to prepare for the GED or who want to brush up on academic skills. Distance education is available in limited areas.
To participate, you must be a WV resident and be able to attend an on-site class for the initial assessment and enrollment. Software programs include healthcare occupations, information technology, Accuplacer preparation, and English as a Second Language courses.
Contact the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670 to find the nearest center offering distance education.
West Virginia GED Eligibility Requirements
Adults 19 and Older — Standard Requirements
- Must be at least 19 years old
- Must not currently be enrolled in high school (unless in the Option Pathway program)
- Must not already hold a high school diploma or equivalent credential
- No WV residency requirement to test — but diploma will be issued as a WV diploma if tested in WV
- Must enroll in an adult education program before scheduling
- Must take and pass the GED Ready at an approved adult education center (NOT at home)
- Adult Education instructor must assist with online registration and scheduling
Students Age 16, 17, or 18
| 16-18 Year-Olds: Parental Consent + School Board Permission
16, 17, and 18-year-old applicants are only eligible for the GED when they meet additional requirements, including parental or guardian consent and permission from their school board. Contact your local adult learning center for guidance on completing the specific documentation required in your county. |
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Parental or guardian consent required
- School board permission required
- Contact your local adult learning center for the specific documentation process: 1-800-642-2670
Option Pathway: For Students Still Enrolled in School
| Option Pathway: Take the GED While Still in School
The Option Pathway program enables students 16-18 who are still enrolled in school to take the GED as part of their program of study — without having to withdraw from school first. This is a major distinction from nearly all other states in this guide series, where students must leave school before testing. Students must meet Option Pathway program guidelines and be formally referred by a teacher, counselor, or school administrator. |
- Students still enrolled in high school who have been referred to Option Pathway by a teacher, counselor, or school administrator
- Students remain enrolled in school while taking GED as part of the Option Pathway curriculum
- Students must meet program guidelines set by their program
- Option Pathway students take GED Ready through their Option Pathway program — NOT at a general adult education center
- Option Pathway instructor assists with registration and scheduling
- Contact your home high school to learn about Option Pathway availability
West Virginia GED Cost: Everything is FREE
| $0 — West Virginia Covers All GED Testing Costs
The state of West Virginia has provided funding for all qualifying individuals to take the GED exam for free. There is no cost to the test-taker for any subject. This applies to all four GED subjects and any retakes needed. The only prerequisite is passing the GED Ready at an approved adult education center. |
| Fee Item | Amount |
| Per subject — In-Person | FREE — state-funded; $0 to the test-taker |
| Full battery (all 4 subjects) | FREE — $0 to the test-taker |
| GED Ready practice test | FREE — administered at adult education center; scores from home NOT accepted |
| Retakes | FREE — retakes also covered; must re-pass GED Ready through program for each retake set |
| Online GED testing | NOT AVAILABLE in WV — no online option; in-person only |
| First diploma + transcript from DiplomaSender | FREE — mailed to you at no cost upon account creation and address verification |
| Replacement diploma/transcript (DiplomaSender) | Fee charged by DiplomaSender — contact DiplomaSender.com or 1-855-313-5799 |
| Adult education classes | FREE — educational services at no cost to adult learners; wvde.us states ‘educational services are available at no cost to adult learners’ |
West Virginia GED Subjects, Format, and Score Levels
| Subject | Time Limit | Content and Format |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 min (10-min break) | Reading comprehension (informational and literary), grammar, writing including Extended Response essay. Essay is 20% of RLA score. Passages 75% informational, 25% literary. |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Basic math, geometry, algebra; real-world applications; formula sheet provided; on-screen calculator for Part 2 |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life, physical, earth science; data interpretation |
| Social Studies | 70 minutes | Historical events, civics, economics, geography; data interpretation |
Score Levels
| Score Level | Score Range and Meaning |
| Below Passing | 100–144 per subject — retake free through WV program; re-pass GED Ready at adult education center first |
| Passing (High School Equivalency) | 145–164 per subject — earns State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma |
| GED College Ready | 165–174 — career and college readiness; may qualify for placement test waivers at WV colleges |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175–200 — may earn college credits at participating institutions through ACE CREDIT program |
HiSET vs. GED West Virginia
| Feature | GED (WV — current) | HiSET (WV — ENDED 8/1/2024) |
| Available in WV now? | YES — only option | NO — ended August 1, 2024 |
| Number of subjects | 4 | 5 (Reading and Writing as separate subtests) |
| Cost in WV | FREE — state-funded | Was free when available (state-subsidized) |
| Online testing | NOT available in WV (in-person only) | Was not available online in WV |
| Score combination | GED scores combine with old HiSET/TASC scores via DiplomaSender | Old HiSET scores combine with GED via DiplomaSender — indefinitely |
| Practice test required | YES — GED Ready at approved adult ed center | Was required (OPT at adult ed center) |
| Passing score | 145 per subject | Score of 8/20 per subtest; essay 2/6; 45 combined |
| Credential issued | State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma (via DiplomaSender) | Was the same diploma; DiplomaSender for score combination |
West Virginia GED Testing Centers
| No Online Testing — In-Person Only at WV Test Centers
West Virginia does not offer the GED online proctored exam. All testing is in-person at approved WV test centers. Most test centers are adult education centers, career and technical education centers, and high school facilities throughout the state. Find your nearest center by calling 1-800-642-2670 or visiting wvde.us/adult-education/. |
| City / Area | Testing Center and Contact |
| Charleston (WVDE) | WVDE contact (not a test center): Ellen Killion, Option Pathway/HSE Coordinator | (304) 558-2389 | 1900 Kanawha Blvd., East Building 6, Suite 825, Charleston, WV 25305-0330 |
| Stollings (Logan County) | Ralph R. Willis Career & Technical Center — 144 Vocational Rd, Stollings, WV 25601 | (304) 752-4687 |
| Sutton (Braxton County) | Braxton County High School — 105 Jerry Burton Dr, Sutton, WV 26601 | (304) 765-7331 or (304) 466-1423 |
| St. Marys (Pleasants County) | Mid-Ohio Valley Technical Institute — 2134 N Pleasants Hwy, St. Marys, WV 26170 | (304) 869-3526 |
| Upperglade (Webster County) | Webster County High School — 1 Highlander Dr, Upperglade, WV 26266 | (304) 847-5638 |
| Welch (McDowell County) | McDowell Co. Tech Center — 1 Stadium Dr, Welch, WV 24801 | (304) 549-8100 or (304) 436-6580 | Contact: Chasity Kennedy |
| Wellsburg (Brooke County) | Bruin Bridge School — 1447 Main St, Wellsburg, WV 26070 | (304) 737-6804 |
| West Union (Doddridge County) | Doddridge County High School — 79 Bulldog Dr, West Union, WV 26456 | (304) 873-2521 |
| Weston (Lewis County) | Lewis County Center — 205 Minuteman Dr, Weston, WV 26452 | (304) 269-8315 |
| Wheeling (Ohio County) | WV Northern Community College — Wheeling, WV | See wvncc.edu or contact WVAdultEd Hotline |
For the complete, current list of all West Virginia adult learning centers and test sites, call the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670 or visit wvde.us/adult-education/. Your adult education instructor will arrange testing at an approved site.
Free GED Preparation in West Virginia
West Virginia Adult Education Programs
West Virginia adult education programs provide completely free educational services to adult learners. The WVDE states explicitly that ‘educational services are available at no cost to adult learners.’ Programs are available across the state and serve special populations including homeless individuals and incarcerated persons. English Language Acquisition programs also serve non-native English speakers.
| Free GED Prep, Free GED Ready, Free Testing — Everything Is Free
In West Virginia, the entire GED pathway is free for qualifying adults: free adult education instruction, free GED Ready practice test at the adult education center, free GED official testing (all four subjects, state-funded), and a free first diploma and transcript from DiplomaSender. No other fee should be charged at any step. |
How to Find Your Nearest Adult Learning Center
- WVAdultEd Hotline: 1-800-642-2670 — fastest way to find the nearest adult learning center
- Online: wvde.us/adult-education/ — full list of adult education providers by county
- Contact WVDE directly: Ellen Killion | (304) 558-2389 | wvde.us
What Adult Education Programs Offer
| Service | Details |
| GED Preparation Classes | Free instruction in all four GED subject areas — Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, Social Studies. Aligned with College and Career Readiness Standards. |
| GED Ready Practice Test | Administered free at all approved adult education programs. All adult education programs are authorized to give the GED Official Practice Test. Required before official GED scheduling. |
| English Language Acquisition (ELA) | Addresses needs of adult English Language Learners, immigrants, temporary residents, and citizens whose native language is not English. |
| Integrated English Language and Civics Education | Available for English Language Learners seeking civic knowledge and English proficiency. |
| Improve Reading Skills | Programs for adults with low-level reading and communication skills, in addition to GED prep. |
| Distance Education (limited areas) | Online prep for WV residents in limited areas. Includes healthcare occupations, IT, Accuplacer prep, ESL. Must go on-site first for enrollment assessment. Call 1-800-642-2670. |
| Special Populations | Services for homeless individuals, incarcerated persons, and other special populations. Contact 1-800-642-2670. |
Free Online Prep Resources
| Resource | Details |
| GED Free Test Previews | ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html — free sample questions for all four subjects |
| GED Official Practice Questions | ged.com/study/practice-questions.html — free practice questions |
| GED Mobile App | Free iOS and Android — study tools and practice questions |
| Prepesaret.com | Free and premium test prep resources and video lessons for all GED subject areas |
| WV Public Libraries | Many WV public libraries offer LearningExpress Library with GED practice tests |
| WV Adult Education Distance Programs | Online prep software available in limited areas through adult education programs (approved programs only) |
How to Get Your GED in West Virginia
- Call the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670 or visit wvde.us/adult-education/ to find your nearest adult learning center. No residency requirement, but note that the diploma will be issued as a WV diploma if you test here.
- If you are 16-18 and not enrolled in school: contact your local adult learning center for guidance on parental consent and school board permission documentation. If you are still enrolled in school: ask your teacher, counselor, or school administrator about the Option Pathway program at your school.
- Enroll in the adult education program. This is required before you can schedule testing.
- Take the GED Official Practice Test (GED Ready) at your adult education center or Option Pathway program. Your instructor will administer the test. Scores from home are NOT accepted for WV’s free testing program.
- Pass the GED Ready in all subject areas you need. Your instructor will review the results with you and clear you for official testing.
- Your Adult Education instructor will assist you with the online registration at GED.com and scheduling. Do NOT complete online registration on your own before passing GED Ready AND getting instructor assistance.
- Attend your in-person GED test at the approved WV test center your instructor designates. Bring a current, valid, original government-issued photo ID with your name and signature. If your ID does not have an address, or is a foreign passport, the examiner may require additional identification.
- After passing all four subjects: create a DiplomaSender account at DiplomaSender.com (or call 1-855-313-5799; have your HiSET or GED ID number available). Your first diploma and transcript are mailed to you free. Use Chrome, Firefox, or Edge — not a phone. Allow pop-ups.
How to Pass the West Virginia GED Fast
Study Blueprint for West Virginia
| Phase | Focus and Activities |
| Phase 1: Enroll and assess | Call 1-800-642-2670 and find your adult learning center. Enroll. Your instructor will assess your current skill levels and build a study plan targeting your weakest areas. Take advantage of free GED prep classes — everything is free. |
| Phase 2: Target weaknesses | Focus on Mathematical Reasoning (most commonly failed GED subject). Study algebra, linear equations, graphs, data interpretation, and geometry. For RLA, practice the Extended Response essay — it counts as 20% of your RLA score. Use your adult education instructor’s guidance. |
| Phase 3: Practice tests | Use free GED.com test previews, Khan Academy, and practice questions with your instructor. Timed practice is essential — the actual tests have strict time limits. Your instructor will monitor your progress. |
| Phase 4: GED Ready + scheduling | Take the GED Ready at your adult education center (free). Pass each subject. Your instructor will confirm your eligibility and assist with registration at GED.com. Schedule your in-person test. Remember: no online option in WV. |
West Virginia-Specific Tips
Never Register Online Without Your Instructor
This is unique to West Virginia in this guide series: WVDE explicitly states you must NOT complete the online GED.com registration process without passing the GED Ready at an approved program AND without instructor assistance.
Skipping this step can create account and scheduling problems that are difficult to resolve. Your instructor is your guide through the entire registration and scheduling process.
The Extended Response Essay Is 20% of Your RLA Score
West Virginia’s WVDE specifically notes this fact. Unlike most states that mention the essay in passing, West Virginia highlights that the Extended Response (essay) comprises 20% of your Reasoning Through Language Arts score.
Investing practice time in essay writing — clear thesis, text evidence, organized argument — has an outsized impact on your RLA score. Practice writing 4-paragraph argumentative essays, aim for 300+ words, and allow 5 minutes for outlining before writing.
If You Have Partial HiSET Scores: Use DiplomaSender
If you passed some HiSET subjects before August 1, 2024, those scores are still valid and can be combined with GED scores via DiplomaSender’s Total Transcript program. Contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 to discuss your specific situation before taking any GED subjects. This may save you from retaking subjects you already passed.
Day-of-Test Checklist
- Bring current, valid, original government-issued photo ID — must include your legal name and signature; if ID lacks address or is a foreign passport, bring supplemental identification
- No phone, notes, food, or drinks in the testing room
- Everything is in-person — no online testing option in WV
- Arrive on time — confirm test center hours with your instructor
- Spend 5 minutes outlining the Extended Response essay before writing (it is 20% of the RLA score)
- Retakes are also free in West Virginia — but you will need to re-pass GED Ready through your program before scheduling each retake set
West Virginia Diploma and Transcripts: DiplomaSender
| All Diplomas and Transcripts Go Through DiplomaSender
West Virginia uses DiplomaSender as its exclusive vendor for all High School Equivalency Diploma and transcript requests — for GED, HiSET, and TASC (Total Transcript program). Official scores are kept by DiplomaSender. Your first diploma and transcript are mailed free. Replacements carry a fee. |
How to Get Your West Virginia HSE Diploma
- After passing all four GED subjects (or combining with HiSET/TASC scores), create a DiplomaSender account.
- Use Chrome, Firefox, or Edge browser — do NOT use a phone to place the order. Allow pop-ups.
- If you combined HiSET/TASC scores with GED: contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 first so they can initiate the diploma issuance process before you order from DiplomaSender.
- Have your GED ID number (or HiSET ID if applicable) available when creating your account.
- Your first diploma and transcript are mailed to you at no cost. Verify your mailing address carefully.
- For replacements, additional transcripts, or employer/college verification: DiplomaSender.com or 1-855-313-5799 | support
- Tip: When ordering multiple documents to be sent to the same location, you can place a single order.
Requesting Replacement Documents
| Document | How to Obtain |
| First diploma + transcript (automatic) | FREE — create DiplomaSender account, verify address. First diploma and transcript mailed at no cost. |
| Replacement diploma | DiplomaSender.com or 1-855-313-5799 — fee charged. Use Chrome/Firefox/Edge; not phone. |
| Additional transcript | DiplomaSender.com or 1-855-313-5799. Colleges, universities, and employers can request official transcripts through DiplomaSender. |
| HiSET/TASC + GED score combination diploma | Contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 first, then use DiplomaSender for diploma delivery. |
| WVDE contact | Ellen Killion | (304) 558-2389 | 1900 Kanawha Blvd., Building 6, Suite 825, Charleston, WV | WVAdultEd Hotline: 1-800-642-2670 |
What Can You Do With a West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma?
| Legal Equivalence in West Virginia
The State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma is recognized by all West Virginia employers, all WV colleges and universities, all U.S. military branches, and federal employment programs as equivalent to a high school diploma. WVDE confirms it is ‘recognized and accepted by virtually all American employers, government agencies, and institutions of higher education.’ |
| Opportunity | Details |
| Employment | Energy sector (coal, natural gas, chemical), healthcare, manufacturing, construction, retail, state government — most WV positions requiring a HS diploma accept the WV HSE Diploma |
| Military service | All U.S. Armed Forces branches accept the WV HSE Diploma |
| West Virginia community and technical colleges | BridgeValley CTC, Pierpont CC, Eastern WV CTC, Mountwest CTC, New River CTC, and all WV CTCs accept the diploma |
| West Virginia universities | West Virginia University, WVU Institute of Technology, Marshall University, Concord University, Fairmont State, Shepherd University, Glenville State, and all WV public universities accept the diploma |
| West Virginia Northern Community College | Full acceptance of WV HSE Diploma for admission to all programs |
| College credits (GED 175+) | College Ready + Credit scores may earn college credits through ACE CREDIT program at participating WV institutions |
| Federal employment in WV | VA Medical Centers, National Energy Technology Lab, USDA, EPA, and other WV federal facilities accept the WV HSE Diploma |
| Further education | Use GED College Ready scores (165+) to potentially waive placement tests at WV colleges and universities |
Washington HiSET Alternative: FAQs
Is the HiSET still available in West Virginia?
No. West Virginia officially ended the HiSET exam on August 1, 2024. The GED is now the only state-approved high school equivalency test in West Virginia. ETS (the HiSET developer) has confirmed this on hiset.org/west-virginia.
If you started HiSET testing before August 1, 2024, your passing HiSET scores are still valid and can be combined with GED scores to earn your diploma — contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833.
I passed some HiSET subjects before August 2024. Do I have to start over?
No. Your passing HiSET scores are valid indefinitely and can be combined with GED subject scores via DiplomaSender’s Total Transcript program.
You only need to take the GED for the subjects you did not pass on the HiSET. Once you have passed all subjects between HiSET and GED combined, contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 to have your diploma issued. The same applies to TASC scores from the 2014 series.
Is GED testing really free in West Virginia?
Yes — completely free. West Virginia state funding covers all GED testing costs. WVDE states there is ‘no cost to the test taker for taking the GED test in West Virginia.’ The requirement is that you must first pass the GED Official Practice Test (GED Ready) at an approved adult education center (not at home).
Adult education classes are also free. Your first diploma and transcript from DiplomaSender are also free (mailed at no cost). Only replacement documents from DiplomaSender carry a fee.
Can I take the GED online in West Virginia?
No. Online GED testing is not available in West Virginia. All testing is in-person at approved West Virginia test centers. This is one of the most significant policy differences from most other states in this guide series.
If you are unable to attend an in-person test center, contact the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670 to explore options including distance education programs and the nearest accessible test center.
What is the Option Pathway program?
The Option Pathway program is West Virginia’s program enabling students who are still enrolled in high school to take the GED as part of their school program of study. Unlike most states where students must withdraw from school to take the GED, Option Pathway allows students to remain enrolled.
Students must be formally referred to the program by a teacher, counselor, or school administrator. Option Pathway students take GED Ready through their Option Pathway program (not at a general adult education center) and their instructor handles registration and scheduling.
Does West Virginia require residency for GED testing?
No — West Virginia does not have a residency requirement for taking the GED test. However, if you test in West Virginia, your diploma will be issued as a State of West Virginia High School Equivalency Diploma.
If you are a non-resident and want a diploma from your own state, you should test in your home state (if it has no residency requirement) or in your home state. Note that the distance education program does require WV residency. Contact the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670 for guidance.
Why must I take GED Ready at an adult education center — not at home?
West Virginia’s free GED testing program is tied to enrollment in an approved adult education or Option Pathway program.
The state requires that the GED Official Practice Test (GED Ready) be administered by a program instructor — ensuring the result is a supervised, verified assessment of your readiness. This also ensures that the adult education program can provide appropriate support if you need further preparation.
GED Ready scores taken at home or at unapproved locations are not accepted for WV’s free testing program.
Final Thoughts: GED Your West Virginia HiSET Alternative
West Virginia’s GED program in 2026 has a critical piece of context that makes it unlike any other state in this guide series: it is in transition.
The HiSET ended on August 1, 2024, and the GED is now the sole path — but the state has put in place a generous score combination policy (via DiplomaSender) so that no one who started the HiSET has to start over completely.
For those beginning fresh, West Virginia offers one of the most accessible GED pathways in the country: completely free testing, free adult education classes, free diploma and transcript, and a network of adult learning centers throughout the state.
The key requirements that differ from most other states — mandatory adult education enrollment, mandatory supervised GED Ready practice test, instructor-assisted registration, and in-person-only testing — are the mechanisms that make the free testing program work and that ensure students are genuinely ready before they sit for the official exam.
These requirements are not obstacles; they are the pathway to a free, supported journey toward your diploma.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. If you have partial HiSET or TASC scores: call WVDE at (833) 627-2833 FIRST to discuss score combination before taking any GED subjects 2. Call the WVAdultEd Hotline at 1-800-642-2670 or visit wvde.us/adult-education/ to find your nearest adult learning center — everything is free 3. If 16-18 and not in school: contact your adult learning center for parental consent and school board permission guidance 4. If 16-18 and still in school: ask your teacher, counselor, or school administrator about the Option Pathway program 5. Enroll in your adult education program (required before scheduling) 6. Work with your instructor to prepare, then take the GED Ready at the center (NOT at home — home scores not accepted for WV free testing) 7. Pass the GED Ready in all four subjects; your instructor will help you with GED.com registration and scheduling 8. Take your in-person GED test. Remember: no online option in WV. Bring valid government-issued photo ID. 9. After passing all four subjects: create your DiplomaSender account (DiplomaSender.com or 1-855-313-5799) using Chrome/Firefox/Edge. First diploma and transcript are mailed free. 10. HiSET score combination: contact WVDE at (833) 627-2833 BEFORE ordering from DiplomaSender so they can initiate the diploma issuance WVDE HSE Coordinator (Ellen Killion): (304) 558-2389 | 1900 Kanawha Blvd., Building 6, Suite 825, Charleston, WV 25305-0330 WVAdultEd Hotline: 1-800-642-2670 | wvde.us/adult-education/ WVDE GED/HiSET Transition Hotline: (833) 627-2833 DiplomaSender: DiplomaSender.com | 1-855-313-5799 | [email protected] |