Imagine unlocking a world of opportunities with just one decision. Whether you’re aiming for a better job, higher earnings, or a sense of personal achievement, earning your GED can be the key to transforming your future. A GED is a valuable credential that can open many doors, especially if you didn’t complete high school. It’s never too late to pursue an education.
What is a GED?
GED stands for General Education Development. A GED is a credential that can be used to substitute for a high school diploma if you didn’t earn one. A GED can be a diploma or a certificate depending on the state you live in. This is achieved by measuring your academic knowledge against that of the average high school senior. The test is designed for people not currently enrolled in high school. The test covers four subjects:
- Math
- Language Arts
- Social Studies
- Science
Each state has its own specific rules. Here’s where you can find out information on Texas’ rules.
Why Should You Earn a GED?
If you’re an adult, you might think that earning a GED is only for younger individuals. The minimum age for test takes is 16 years old while the majority of those who obtain a GED are well over the minimum age.
The decision to return to education later in life can be daunting, but it can also be empowering. Choosing to pursue an education at any level, including a GED, can help you gain a sense of control over your life while unlocking new opportunities for yourself.
Economic Benefits and Career Advancement
Probably the most compelling and practical reason to earn your GED is the improved employment opportunities that can be unlocked. Many employers require a high school diploma equivalent for even the most entry-level positions. Without this credential, you may find yourself with extremely limited job opportunities and little to no room for career advancement. If you don’t have a high school diploma or GED, you may already be experiencing this in your life. Earning a GED can unlock better job opportunities and lead you to earning a higher wage.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent earn significantly more than those without. In 2023, the median weekly earnings for full-time workers with a high school diploma were $781, compared to $619 for those without. This difference in earnings can translate to thousands of dollars annually.
Personal Growth and Fulfillment
In addition to gaining a higher paying job, earning a GED can help enhance your life in many other ways. Completing the GED exam requires dedication, perseverance, and hard work. Like achieving any goal, earning your GED can be a source of pride. Accomplishing this milestone has the ability to assist in validating your capability to learn new things and overcome additional life challenges.
Earning your GED can also be empowering. Most GED seekers have endured and overcome a number of barriers. No matter what barriers you may face, obtaining your GED can provide a sense of self determination resulting in proof that you, too, can overcome life’s challenges
How to Get your GED
Requirements
If you’re a resident of the state of Texas over the age of 18 who hasn’t graduated from high school or if you’re not enrolled in high school, you’re eligible to take high school equivalency tests. You’ll need to meet a few requirements before you can register.
First, you’ll need to have a valid, government-issued photo ID. This could include the following:
- A Driver’s License or Learner Permit
- A Department of Public Safety ID card
- Military ID
- Passport or U.S. passport
- Matrícula consular card
You won’t be able to use the following:
- Student IDs
- Library Cards
- Photocopies of IDs
- Digital Photos of IDs
- Digital IDs
- Parent or Guardian’s ID
- Expired IDs
You will also need to prove that you’re a Texas resident. You could do this by:
- Texas Driver’s License, DPS ID, or a Student ID
- Utility bills showing a Texas address.
- Bank statements, paycheck stubs, tax returns, or government mail with a Texas address.
While you must be over the age of 18, there are some age exceptions if applicable to you. You will need a parent or guardian’s permission.
A 17 year old can take the test if:
- You meet the ID and residency requirements above.
- Are not currently enrolled in school (unless enrolled in a High School Equivalency Program)
- Do not have a high school diploma.
- And if you have parent or guardian permission
A 16 year old can take the test if:
- If they meet the requirements above for a 17 year old
- AND are in one of the following:
- Under the care of a state agency.
- Under a court order issued under Family Code 65.103 (a) (3);
- Enrolled in a Job Corps training program, or
- Enrolled in the Texas Challenge Academy
For more details, check out the Texas Education Agency’s website for more information.
Preparation
It isn’t mandatory to attend any prep classes, however we would strongly recommend it. Participation in a GED preparation course can help instill a sense of confidence to not only take the test but to earn a passing score. Career and Recovery Resources can help you get the preparation that you need for the test. Our Employment Services offer GED classes to help you get ready for your test.
Our Schedule:
- Walk-in Assessments with an intake Specialist: Mon-Fri 9AM – 4:45AM
- Computer Lab: Mon-Fri 9AM – 4:45AM
- GED Classes: Wed and Thurs 5:30PM – 7:30 PM
Contact our GED instructor for more information
- Charles Jackson III, GED Instructor: chuckjackson718@gmail.com
Taking the Tests
When it comes to taking the test, you can take all 4 subjects together or one at a time. If you decide to do each subject, be prepared. Taking all 4 subjects at once can take a few hours, with breaks.
In Texas, you can take the GED online or at an official testing center. If you choose to take the test online, you’ll need the following:
- A computer, webcam, and internet. Run a system test ahead of time to make sure your computer meets the requirements.
- A private workspace.
- Government-issued ID.
- A ‘Green’ GED Ready Score. You will need to take a practice test within the last 60 days for each subject when you test.
If you don’t have the option to take the test online, you’ll need to go to an official testing center.
After your test, you’ll receive your score. Scores range from 100-200 points. Each of the subjects, language arts, math, science, and social studies, are scored individually. To pass, you’ll have to make a 145 for each subject individually.
Common Concerns
It’s common that if you are an older adult considering getting a GED that you may think you could struggle with being in an academic learning environment. If you haven’t been in school in a while, it’s normal to feel this way. However, GED classes and adult education classes in general are designed to support learners of all ages, abilities, and stages of life. Adult education classes are built to provide you with the tools and resources needed to succeed.
Others might not be worried about the learning environment but are worried about a perceived stigma associated with getting their GED. It’s easy to fall into that way of thinking, but the value of an education lies in the knowledge and skills that you acquire. There is no right or wrong way to obtain an education and there is no specific path you must follow to get to your goals.
In Closing
Earning your GED is more than just obtaining a piece of paper—it’s a step towards a brighter future filled with opportunities. You have the power to open new doors for better employment, higher wages, and personal growth. Don’t let doubts or past challenges hold you back. By choosing to pursue your GED, you demonstrate resilience and a commitment to self-improvement. Take advantage of the resources available to you, prepare thoroughly, and believe in your ability to succeed.
How Career and Recovery Resources Can Help
Ready to learn more about how Career and Recovery Resources can help you reach your goals? Check out our Employment Services page to learn more about how you’ll be assessed at intake or what other classes we offer.
Our principles for employment are based on fairness, justice, protection of human rights, and respect for the dignity of individuals. Every person needs the chance to earn an income in gainful employment for which they are qualified. We help individuals create an employment plan to meet their needs. We provide tools, skill-building opportunities, and support to help people become employed. Those seeking additional training can enroll in certification programs to gain other skills for specialized positions.
