Fast Ways to Get a GED

Completing your GED quickly helps give you a competitive edge in the work place.

In a tough job market, you want as much of an edge on another job applicant as you can get. If you did not finish high school, obtaining a GED diploma is another way to give yourself this competitive edge. GED diplomas are also widely accepted in lieu of a high school diploma in college admissions, according to the 2007 Annual Survey of Colleges. If you're in the market to get your GED diploma, speed may be a factor for you, and there are some fast ways to go about earning one.

Take the Test Right Away

The fastest way to get your GED diploma is to take the test without any preparation. While it is better to prepare yourself in some way for the test beforehand, you can take the test by simply contacting your local GED testing center and arranging a test time. The test is not offered online, so you must contact your local testing center to take the exam.

Do Some Preparation: At Home

The GED exam tests you in five different areas: writing, social studies, science, reading and mathematics. It is usually a good idea to brush up on these areas before taking the test to save yourself the trouble of taking it again if you don't pass. The American Council on Education (ACE) suggests utilizing the television and video opportunities available to prepare beforehand from home.

Do Some Preparation: In Class

Some students feel that they learn better in the classroom led by an instructor. There are various opportunities through your local adult education center near you, located on the ACE website (see Resources), to prepare for the test through an instructor.

Do Some Preparation: Online

Prepare yourself to take the GED exam by using the online resources also offered by ACE on its website. Resource materials with sample test questions and other resources on how to prepare yourself for the test are also available online.

Take Practice Tests

Taking the time to make sure you are ready for the real test may be the fastest way to obtain your GED. Take half- and full-length practice exams available at GEDpractice.com. Knowing what to expect during the test in terms of questions and difficulty may save you time in the long run by only having to take the real test once.

References

• National Center for Policy Analysis: College Graduates Earn More

Resources

• American Council on Education: Official Web Site for GED Testing