What exactly is the GED and how is it different from matric?
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The GED (General Educational Development) is an American high school equivalency test.
SAQA evaluates it as NQF Level 4, same as matric, but it's considered matric WITHOUT exemption.
This means you cannot go directly to SA public universities. GED tests 4 subjects in one-time exams,
while matric requires 3 years of continuous assessment plus final exams in 7 subjects.
What are the new 2024 GED requirements?
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Since January 15, 2024: You MUST pass the GED Ready® practice test with a score of 145+
before you can book the official test. This costs R150 per subject (R600 total for all 4).
You must book your official test within 60 days of passing the practice test.
We recommend taking the official test within 2 weeks while content is fresh.
What is the total cost of getting a GED?
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Test fees:
• GED Ready practice tests: R150 × 4 = R600
• Official GED tests: $85 USD × 4 = $340 USD (≈R6,500)
• Total testing: ≈R7,100
Preparation costs:
• ExceptionalResults MobyMax: R495-R995/month (3-6 months typical)
• Total investment: R10,000-R15,000 including all preparation and tests
Can I go to university with a GED in South Africa?
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Not directly to public universities. Since 2020, USAf no longer grants exemptions for GED.
Your options are:
• Private universities (Boston, Stadio, Varsity College)
• Complete a 1-year Higher Certificate first, then apply for degree
• International/online universities (97% of US universities accept GED)
• If 23+, apply for mature age exemption (case-by-case)
How long does it take to complete the GED?
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Typically 6-12 months total:
• 3-6 months: MobyMax foundation work (filling Grade 1-8 gaps)
• 2-3 months: GED-specific preparation
• 1-2 months: Taking the 4 tests
Students with strong foundations can complete faster. Those with significant gaps may need longer.
The actual tests take 7.5 hours total but can be spread over several weeks.
What happens if I fail a GED test?
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• First & second retake: No waiting period, retake immediately
• Third retake: Must wait 60 days
• Cost: $85 USD per retake
• No new GED Ready required if you already passed it
• Maximum 3 attempts per subject per year
Our MobyMax preparation significantly reduces failure risk by ensuring you're fully ready before attempting.
Why do I need MobyMax before attempting GED?
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GED assumes you have Grade 8-level foundations. Most SA students have gaps from as early as Grade 3-4.
MobyMax identifies and fills EVERY gap from Grade 1-8, ensuring you have the foundation needed.
Without fixing these gaps first, GED becomes nearly impossible. Students who skip foundation work typically
fail multiple times, costing more in retakes than proper preparation would have cost.
Where do I write the GED tests in South Africa?
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GED tests are written at Boston City Campus test centres across South Africa.
There are 40+ locations including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, and smaller cities.
Tests are computer-based and scheduled individually. You can take different subjects at different centres if needed.
Online testing is NOT available for South African residents.
