The GED tests cover math, reading, writing, science and social studies at a secondary school level. Passing the GED will give you a greater advantage when you are searching for a job, and open up new possibilities in continuing education. Receiving a high school diploma in Canada is not as difficult as you may think.
Information on Where and How to Take the GED
Visit the American Council on Education (ACE) website and choose your region to find out the provincial standards. There is a fee to take the test, but that fee varies in each province. There is also a minimum age requirement, but that also varies between provinces. Make sure you are eligible to take the test before investing time and money.
Take practice tests to help prepare and become familiar with the types of questions that will be on the official test. The ACE website provides sample test questions that will tell you if you are correct when you choose an answer. The questions that will be on the official tests range from multiple choice to essay style. The test categories are:
- Language Arts, Reading
- Language Arts, Writing, Part I
- Language Arts, Writing, Part II (Essay)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
Study Resources
You can find study guides online and in bookstores. You can also visit a local high school to obtain course material. Refer to the sample questions on the ACE website and learn the testing structure to study accordingly.
Consider other study options. If you have trouble focusing at home, there are education centres that can help. These centres can provide teachers and helpful study hints. There is also a Facebook group dedicated to helping those preparing for the tests. Don't be afraid to ask for help, it is extremely important that you learn and are comfortable with the material. No matter where you are in the country, you need to score a 450 to pass the test.
Taking the Test
Locate the official provincial testing centre closest to you and make an appointment. Once you feel comfortable with the material, book the test. The GED test cannot be taken online. It will take about 7 hours to complete the series of tests, but how that is broken up varies between provinces. If you fail the GED test on your first attempt, don't stress too much, you can take it again.
Tips
- Learn key test-taking strategies that best suit your needs.
- Use practice tests to prepare.
- When taking the test, take your time and read the instructions carefully for each section.
- Leave time to review your answers.
Jennifer Berube - I am a freelance writer based in Victoria, B.C. I graduated from the Humber College Journalism program and have worked as a reporter for a ...
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