Success On The GED Test Now Just Clicks Away In Texas

Adults expected to benefit from new computerized testing

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Mar 25, 2013, 12:15 ET

AUSTIN, Texas, March 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In striving to offer more adults without a high school diploma an opportunity to obtain a high school credential as well as basic technology skills, Texas recently partnered with GED Testing Service to offer the GED test on computer. Testing began on March 6, 2013, and online registration and scheduling is now available to test-takers.

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"The GED test on computer provides a more flexible and efficient testing experience for adult learners who often need to move very quickly into jobs or training programs," said Randy Trask, president of GED Testing Service. "Over the past year we've found that adults who test on computer score higher and finish the exam faster, and we're excited that this offering is now available in a wide variety of locations across Texas."

Texas joins 39 states that have begun offering the GED test on computer since early 2012. Adult learners across the country have taken advantage of the new benefits, such as online scheduling and registration, instant unofficial score reports, and increased testing flexibility. GED Testing Service studied results from more than 40,000 computerized GED tests given in 2012 and found significantly positive results for test-takers. GED Testing Service's findings included:

Adults who tested on computer had an 88 percent pass rate compared to 71 percent for those who tested on paper.
Adults who tested on computer completed their exams in approximately 5.5 hours compared to 8 on paper.
Adults who tested on computer were also 59 percent more likely to retake a failed test instead of giving up and dropping out of the testing program.

"Testing on the computer is a lot easier," said Logan Huffman, one of the first test-takers to take advantage of the computer-based GED test in Texas. "I really liked that the computer test had a tutorial before you started answering your questions."

The launch also allows adults in Texas to take advantage of a new GED Testing Service offer in more than 30 locations. Through May 31, 2013, adults in Texas who begin their GED test on computer will receive one free retake if they fail. To view full details of the new offer visit, GEDtestingservice.com/secondshot.

"Computer-based GED testing gives me more time to advise and encourage candidates to finish their GED test before the series closeout," said Karen Armstead, GED test administrator at Texas State Technical College. "I'm so excited to be able to provide this new service to our candidates."

The GED test on computer is the same test currently offered in the paper and pencil format. Whether a candidate takes the test on paper or computer, it must be taken in person at an official GED testing center. The GED test is never offered online. States currently offering the GED test on computer are preparing for the new 2014 GED test, which will only be available on computer.

For adults interested in taking or learning more about the GED test on computer please visit, www.GEDcomputer.com.

About GED Testing Service
The GED test has opened doors to better jobs and college programs for more than 18 million graduates since 1942. Last year nearly 800,000 adults sat for the GED test, which is accepted by virtually all U.S. colleges and employers. As the creator of the one official GED test, GED Testing Service has a responsibility to ensure that the program continues to be a reliable and valuable pathway to a better life for the millions of adults without a high school diploma.

About Computerized GED Testing in Correctional Facilities
GED Testing Service is working with Texas to implement a Temporary Waiver Program that may delay the start of computerized testing in some correction facilities due beyond January 2014.

SOURCE GED Testing Service