New GED Test Format Fosters High Success Rates

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
PRESS OFFICE
(850) 245-0413

NEW GED TEST FORMAT FOSTERS HIGH SUCCESS RATES
– Computer-based test leads to higher test scores –

Tallahassee, Fla., February 14, 2013 – Adults who take the GED test on computer are passing at higher rates and finishing faster according to the GED Testing Service. This is good news for Floridians trying to earn their high school diploma by passing the GED tests. The transition to the computer-based test began last year as part of a plan to help more adult learners earn a GED credential.

“Earning a GED credential is a springboard for adults who want to enter the workforce or attain better paying jobs,” said Commissioner of Education Dr. Tony Bennett. “The computer-based test gives them an opportunity to earn their GED credential in a user-friendly format.”

As an incentive to encourage test takers to try the test on computer, the GED Testing Service is offering a free retake on any GED test subject. Through May 31, 2013, adults who choose to begin their GED test on computer will receive one free retake if they fail. The computer-based test is now offered at 17 locations throughout Florida.

According to the GED Testing Service analysis, users are comfortable with testing on a computer and as a result, scores are higher. The analysis also indicates the failure rate of adults taking the test on computer is about half of those taking the test on paper, and that nearly two-thirds of test takers were more likely to retake a failed test than give up or drop out of the program.

“As an experienced teacher, I can say that I am extremely pleased with the computer test,” said Dr. Linda McClelland, professor of the Pathways High School Equivalency Program at Florida State College at Jacksonville. “Last term I sent almost all of my students to test on the computer, and the scores were unbelievable. These are some of the highest scores I have seen in my 20 years of teaching in adult education. Thank you for this new method of testing. Many of my students are now in college!”

A new version of the GED test will launch January 2, 2014. The new test will be offered only on computer and Floridians taking the current GED test series must complete all the subtests before the deadline. Test scores for the current series will not be combined with the new test and candidates who do not complete their tests by the deadline must meet the requirements of the new test.

“As we move to the new GED test next year, it is important for adult learners to know about the new test format,” said Career and Adult Education Chancellor Rod Duckworth. “The GED credential opens the doors of opportunity for adults to enroll in college and career training programs that allow them to better support themselves and their families.”

Individuals wishing to register to take the GED test should visit GED Testing Service to find the testing centers in their area and select a testing date and time that works best for them. The online registration process provides many benefits to test takers such as 24-hour/seven-days-a-week online registration and scheduling, instant unofficial score reports, and a more self-paced testing experience.

For more information about the new computer-based GED tests, including official testing sites and the online registration process, visit GED Testing.

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About the Florida Department of Education: The department’s mission is to increase the proficiency of all students within one seamless, efficient education system by providing them the chance to expand their knowledge and skills through world-class learning opportunities. Serving more than 3.5 million students, 4,200 public schools, 28 colleges, 188,000 teachers, 47,000 college professors and administrators, and 318,000 individuals who work in education throughout the state, the department enhances the economic self-sufficiency of Floridians through programs and services geared toward college, workforce education, job-specific skills, and career development. Florida ranks first in the nation for teacher quality, first in the nation in advanced placement participation, and first in the southern region for graduation rate and degrees awarded by the Florida College System. For more information, visit www.fldoe.org.

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