How to Get My GED Through the Mail

Many accredited GED programs are offered online.

The General Education Development (GED) test is designed to help adults and other nontraditional students to obtain their high school equivalency certificate. While you can take GED courses online, The American Council on Education does not currently allow the GED test to be taken through the mail or online. All tests must be taken on-site at certified testing centers.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Paper
• Pen

Instructions

1. Locate practice materials for the GED online. Many websites have free courses or free tests. These courses or tests will not be as intensive or as thorough as paid courses, but they will get you started.

2. Identify your areas for improvement. If you had the greatest difficulty on the math section of the test, for instance, you may need to pay for a GED math course either online or through a local community college.

3. Continue working through the lessons until you are satisfied with your score on the practice tests. The GED has five components, each of which have a maximum of 800 points and an average of 500 points. To pass the GED, you must score at least 450 points on all five sections.

4. Call your local community college or high school and sign up to take the GED test. Be sure to ask what form of identification and materials you should take with you for the test and which items are prohibited.

5. Continue studying up until the exam date to ensure that the information stays fresh in your mind.

Tips & Warnings

• When you study, spend more time on the areas where you need more work.

• Any program that promises a GED by mail is fraudulent. The resulting certificate that you will receive will not be valid.

References

• American Education Network: Find Out about Obtaining Your GED
• Education Portal: GED by Mail Programs Overview
• Florida Literacy Coalition: Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

• American Council on Education: ACE GED Testing Service