If you’re ready to take control of your future, earning a GED® could be the first step toward opening up new opportunities in education and your career. At VLACS, we offer flexible, online GED® preparation courses to help you prepare for the GED® exam. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments, our courses provide the tools and support you need to succeed on your own schedule.
What is the GED®?
The GED® (General Educational Development) exam is one of the most recognized high school equivalency tests, accepted by almost all colleges and employers across the country. For individuals who didn’t complete their high school diploma, the GED® provides an opportunity to earn a credential that can open doors to higher education, better job prospects, and career advancement.
The GED® exam measures knowledge in four key areas: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA). Successfully passing the exam demonstrates that a student has the same academic abilities as a high school graduate. The GED® offers flexibility—you can take all four sections at once or one at a time, making it a suitable option for people with busy schedules or varying levels of readiness in different subject areas.
Why Earn Your GED®?
Earning your GED® credential can be a life-changing step. Here are a few reasons why earning your GED® can be beneficial:
- Career Advancement: Many jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. By earning a GED®, you meet this requirement, which can help you secure higher-paying jobs or promotions within your current role.
- Higher Education: Nearly all colleges and universities accept the GED® as equivalent to a high school diploma. Whether you’re interested in community college, trade school, or a four-year university, a GED® can pave the way for your next steps in education.
- Personal Achievement: Earning a GED® is not just about the credential—it’s also about the confidence and sense of accomplishment that comes with completing an important academic milestone. For many, obtaining a GED® represents overcoming challenges and setting the stage for future success.
Who Can Take the GED® Test?
The GED® test is available to individuals who have not graduated high school. In most states, you must be at least 16 years old to take the exam, though eligibility requirements such as age limits or residency requirements vary by state. Adult learners and high school students seeking an alternative route to a diploma may all be eligible to take the GED® test.
What Does the GED® Test Cover?
The GED® exam is composed of four subject areas designed to evaluate a student’s academic knowledge and critical thinking skills. Here’s a breakdown of the subjects:
- Mathematics: This section covers quantitative and algebraic problem-solving skills. Topics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The exam tests the ability to apply mathematical reasoning to real-world scenarios.
- Science: The science section tests your knowledge of physical science, life science, and Earth/space science. You’ll be required to interpret scientific data, analyze experiments, and draw conclusions based on scientific reasoning.
- Social Studies: In this section, you’ll cover a broad range of topics, including U.S. history, civics and government, economics, and geography. The goal is to assess your ability to understand and analyze social and historical issues.
- Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA): The RLA section focuses on reading comprehension, writing, and editing skills. You’ll read passages, answer questions, and write essays that demonstrate your ability to analyze and communicate effectively.
Each of these subjects plays a crucial role in determining your readiness to earn a high school equivalency credential.
How VLACS Prepares You for the GED®
VLACS offers GED® preparation courses in all four subject areas: Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts. These courses are designed to help you build the skills and confidence needed to pass the GED® exam. Whether you are a high school student seeking an alternative route to graduation or an adult learner looking to go back to school, VLACS provides flexible online learning to support your success.
Here’s how VLACS GED® prep courses are structured to help you achieve your goals:
- Structured Modules: Each VLACS GED® prep course is divided into modules that align with the core content areas of the GED® test. You’ll begin with a pretest to assess your strengths and identify areas for improvement. As you progress through each module, you’ll engage with interactive lessons, practice activities, and assessments to build mastery.
- Guided Learning: In each module, you’ll work through lessons that are specifically designed to explain challenging concepts in a clear and concise way. Lessons include “Learn It” sections that introduce new topics, followed by “Try It” sections where you can practice applying the skills you’ve learned.
- Targeted Feedback from Instructors: VLACS instructors provide personalized feedback to help you understand the material and improve your performance. You’ll receive detailed guidance on what areas need improvement and how you can boost your readiness for the GED® exam.
- Flexible Scheduling: VLACS understands that every student has different needs and schedules. Our online courses allow you to study at your own pace, making it easier to balance your preparation with other responsibilities like work or family commitments.
GED® Accommodations and Test-Taking Details
The GED® offers various accommodations to support students, including extended time, additional breaks, the use of assistive technology, and the option to take the test in Spanish. If you require accommodations, you must request them before scheduling your test. The approval process typically involves providing documentation and ensuring that the accommodations will be in place on your test day.
When it comes to taking the GED® test, there are a few key details to keep in mind:
- Eligibility: Requirements vary by state, so you’ll need to check the specific rules for where you plan to take the test.
- Test Centers: The GED® exam must be taken at an official testing center or via an online proctoring service. You’ll need to schedule your test in advance.
- Retesting: If you don’t pass a section, you can retake it. Some states offer discounted retakes, while others may require you to wait a specific amount of time before trying again.
Why Choose VLACS for GED® Prep?
- Expert Support: VLACS instructors are experienced teachers who provide personalized feedback and guidance throughout your GED® preparation journey.
- Tailored Learning: Our courses adapt to your specific needs, allowing you to focus on the areas where you need the most help.
- Flexibility: With VLACS, you can study whenever it works best for you, whether you’re a high school student balancing other responsibilities or an adult learner managing a job and family.
- Interactive Content: Our courses are designed to be engaging, with videos, practice exercises, and feedback that keeps you motivated and on track.
Next Steps: How to Enroll in VLACS HiSET® Preparation Courses
VLACS offers GED® preparation courses to two main groups:
- High School Students: High school students who live in New Hampshire can take VLACS’s GED® prep courses for free. Students residing outside of New Hampshire can take courses on a tuition basis. This is an excellent option for students who are ready to pursue their high school equivalency while still in high school or who may not be on track for traditional graduation. To enroll, create a VLACS account and request courses. A step-by-step guide on the enrollment process can be found here.
- Adult Learners: Adults over the age of 21 can also take VLACS’s GED® prep courses on a tuition basis. These courses are designed to meet the needs of adults returning to education to complete their high school equivalency. To enroll, visit the VLACS course catalog, choose the course you’d like to take, and select the “Enroll Now” button in the course description. You will be redirected to a page where you can sign up for your course and pay tuition.
By choosing VLACS for your GED® preparation, you’ll receive the resources and support you need to confidently pursue your high school equivalency credential and take the next step toward your future.
