Overview of General Education Diploma (GED®)

The General Educational Development (GED®) test is an internationally recognised alternative to traditional high school diplomas. Accepted by many universities and colleges in South Africa and globally, it demonstrates high school-level academic skills and knowledge, opening doors to further education and career opportunities.

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Key Advantages of GED®

  • Flexibility: Students can study at their own pace and take exams when ready, starting at age 17.
  • Affordability: The GED® is a cost-effective option compared to traditional schooling.
  • Wide Acceptance: Many institutions in South Africa and internationally accept the GED® for admission.
  • No Afrikaans Requirement: Ideal for English-speaking students who want to avoid Afrikaans language requirements.
  • GED with Honours: Achieving a score of 165 or higher on any subject test qualifies you for the GED with Honours, indicating college readiness and potential for earning college credits. Read More about GED Scoring

Read More About Advantages

Key Disadvantages of GED®

  • Age Restriction: Students can register a GED profile at 16 but can only take exams after turning 17, which may delay progress if studies are completed early.
  • Additional Qualifications Needed: Some fields of study, like Medicine or Engineering, may require extra qualifications.
  • Language Barrier: GED® is only available in English, which might be challenging for non-native speakers.
  • University Exemption Requirements: South African universities may require additional qualifications for GED holders to meet admission standards.
  • Read More About Disadvantages

Subjects Offered

The GED® program covers four main subjects, each designed to test essential academic skills and knowledge:

  1. Mathematical Reasoning – Basic math, Geometry, Basic Algebra, Graphs & Functions.
  2. English – Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)- Reading for Meaning, Identifying & Creating Arguments, Grammar & Language.
  3. Social Studies – World History & Geography, Political Science & Economics.
  4. Science – Biology, Chemistry & Physics.
  5.  

Read More About the GED® Syllabus

Where Your Child Can Study with a GED®

Enhancing your GED® for University Admission

Achieving your GED® is a significant first step toward further education and career advancement. In South Africa, GED® holders have several options to enhance their credentials, improving their eligibility for university programs and broadening their educational opportunities.

1. Achieving a GED with Honors

  • What It Means: Scoring between 165 and 174 on any of the GED® subject tests not only demonstrates high school equivalency but also college readiness. This level, known as “GED® with Honours,” indicates that you possess the skills and knowledge to succeed in higher-level academic work.
  • Benefits: A GED® with Honours may provide opportunities for college credit, giving you a head start in your higher education journey. This distinction can make you a more attractive candidate for admissions and scholarships, signalling your readiness for rigorous academic challenges.

2. Pursuing Bridging Courses

  1. Purpose: Bridging courses are designed to build upon your existing knowledge, preparing you for specific university degree programs. These courses are especially beneficial if you need to meet particular prerequisites or want to strengthen your understanding of subjects relevant to your intended field of study.
  2. Benefits: Completing bridging courses can enhance your academic profile, provide deeper subject matter expertise, and ensure you are well-prepared for the demands of university-level courses. They can significantly improve your chances of acceptance into competitive programs.

Read More About Enhancing your GED®

Choosing Between GED® and AHSD

When deciding whether to pursue the GED® or the American High School Diploma (AHSD), it’s important to consider how each credential aligns with your child’s future academic and career goals.

GED®:

  • Flexibility and Speed: The GED® can be completed in a shorter time frame, typically within 6-12 months, making it ideal for students who wish to accelerate their education.
  • Enhancing for Further Studies: While the GED® is equivalent to a high school diploma and is widely accepted, some specialised or advanced degree programs might require additional qualifications. To meet specific program prerequisites, GED® holders might need to take supplemental courses, particularly in key subjects like mathematics or science, achieve satisfactory scores on standardised tests such as the SAT or ACT, or participate in bridging programs offered by some colleges. These steps ensure they are well-prepared for rigorous academic demands.

American High School Diploma (AHSD):

  • Comprehensive Education: Spanning 3.5 to 4 years, the AHSD offers a more traditional high school education, which includes a broader range of subjects and extracurricular opportunities.
  • Widely Recognised: This diploma is generally recognized and accepted for further studies, providing a solid foundation for entry into most university programs without the need for additional qualifications.

Considerations:

  • Age and Timing: For younger students, particularly those starting around age 13 or 14, the AHSD is typically the more viable option due to age restriction of 17 years, associated with the GED® tests.
  • Future Academic Goals: The choice might depend on the intended field of study. For example, if a student is aiming for a career in a field that requires extensive subject-specific knowledge or hands-on experiences, such as sciences or engineering, the AHSD might be more advantageous.
  • Cost: The AHSD typically involves more significant expenses compared to the GED® due to its longer duration and comprehensive curriculum. Families should consider their budget and potential financial aid options when deciding between these educational pathways.

Conclusion

Both the GED® and AHSD offer valid pathways to higher education and career advancement, but the best choice depends on individual circumstances, including educational goals, age, how quickly the student wishes to progress through their educational journey, and financial considerations. Enhancing a GED® credential can bridge gaps for specific university programs, ensuring students are equipped to meet their long-term academic and professional objectives.

 

GED® Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The GED® (General Educational Development) test is a high school Grade 12 equivalency credential. It is an internationally recognized alternative to traditional high school diplomas, comparable to the National Senior Certificate (NSC) in South Africa. Developed in the early 1940s for veterans returning to the USA after World War II, it has been written by more than 17 million students globally.

No, GED® is considered to be a Grade 12 equivalent. The nearest compatible qualification is the National Senior Certificate.

Yes. GED® is the ONLY higher secondary certificate available in over 85 countries and accepted by nearly all universities in the USA and many other universities across the world.

Yes. The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), has evaluated GED® and found the National Senior Certificate as its closest comparable qualification. Students with a GED® credential may be eligible to apply for a Certificate of Evaluation from SAQA , which states that the closest compatible qualification in South Africa is the National Senior Certificate or and NQF Level 4 qualification.

Confirmation of this is available on the SAQA website, under the heading “INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY”

The General Educational Development (GED®) test is an alternative to a high school diploma and is recognised in many countries, including South Africa. The acceptance of GED® for admission into higher education institutions in South Africa varies and is generally more common among private colleges and certain public universities with flexible admissions policies.

Different faculties of different institutions may have their own entrance criteria, so it is ALWAYS best to check with your institution of choice. However, in general, GED® credentials are recognized as being equivalent to Grade 12.

Yes. 

  • GED® graduates may apply to overseas universities and international online universities.
  • GED® graduates may qualify for admission to higher certificate and diploma courses in a wide range of fields at South African colleges and universities.
  • To study towards a degree at a South African university, a GED® graduate must first meet the requirements set by USAF for exemption.
  • Exemption is NOT required for admission to DIPLOMA and HIGER CERTIFICATE courses at South African universities. It will still be possible to qualify with a GED®.

Yes, if you meet the respective requirements for one of these options:

  • Foreign Conditional Exemption
  • Senatorial Discretion
  • Mature Age Exemption – If you are 23 or older you may qualify for exemption.
  • Tertiary Qualifications – If you pass a course the equivalent of first year university level at college, offline or online university, then you can apply to Universities SA to grant you university exemption.
  •  Academic and Professional Certificate at NQF Level 5 or higher, or the equivalent of a minimum of 120 credits.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning – All higher education institutions in South African must have a policy and procedure to assess prospective students’ RPL to see if they can enter the courses with a reasonable chance of success. RPL provides a way for the university to acknowledge your knowledge and skills gained via non-formal education and/or work experience, in order to obtain admission towards a qualification. It may also include candidates lacking the minimum requirements for entry into a formal learning program (e.g. matriculation endorsement).

 

As with any other matric option, there is no guarantee that a GED® graduate will be issued with exemption from USAF, nor that a university will accept his/her application.
PLEASE NOTE: You MUST check with the universities and specific faculty of your choice that they will accept these foreign qualifications with one of the categories of exemption. Many degrees and courses have additional requirements which you will also have to fulfil, no matter what Grade 12 credential you have.

Yes. International online universities offer many benefits such as:

  • No exemption requirements from USAF.
  • GED is recognised and widely accepted.
  • Added flexibility and self paced learning. Perfect for those advancing their education while working.
  • Reduced cost – Savings on accommodation, commuting, and saving thousands on textbooks and course materials.
  • More free time. Your schedule isn’t dictated by classes. No time lost to commuting.
  • Increased course variety. Online courses allow you to earn essentially the same range of different degrees that can be learned from a traditional educational environment. This includes learning certificates and professional certifications to master’s degrees or doctoral degrees.
  • Better time management. Employers often appreciate the time management skills needed to complete an online degree program and view these skills as a valuable asset in potential employees.
  • ……….. and so much more!!!

Completion of grade 8 at least, but keep in mind that exams can ONLY be wriiten once the student turns 17 years old. Our FREE assessment will determine if a student is ready. If they are not ready we can recommend a course of action to fill in any learning gaps quickly and efficiently.

  • Laptop  / Desk top PC / Tablet with keyboard.
  • Monitor resolution:1280x 768 or higher.
  • Speakers or headphones
  • Internet connection and Chrome broweser
  • Note book for each subject

Students who have completed our Mobymax syllabus are well-prepared for the GED. Typically, it takes between 3 to 12 months to study for and complete the GED, depending on the student’s regular study habits and personal circumstances. Our online materials are self-paced, allowing each student to progress according to their own learning speed.

As of 15 January 2024, students will be required to pass the GED® Ready test with a minimum score of 145 before being able to schedule the GED® test. 

If a student takes a GED Ready and scores a “green” then that student must schedule their GED test within the next 60 days for that subject. If the student fails that GED subject test, they are not required to take another GED Ready before scheduling another GED test.  

We recommend that students take their GED subject test within 2 weeks of taking the GED Ready for that subject. Keeping information fresh in mind will help increase the chances of passing. 

This is a half-length test, created by the GED Testing Service® as a practice test. It is in the same format as the official GED® test, so it will give you a good idea of what to expect. You can write this test at home on your own computer and it will give you a score out of 200 and tell you if you are likely to pass.

This result will confirm that you are test-ready and boost your confidence.

Click on the link below for instructions to buy a GED Ready® Test online and steps to take the GED Ready® test. The cost of the test is R130.

Steps to take the GED Ready® Test

“The GED Ready is the official GED practice test. The GED Ready test serves as an indicator of how likely a student is to pass the GED test. Upon completion of the GED Ready, students will receive their own targeted study plan based on the skills that require additional work, including specific guidance on what to study.”

How many times can I take it? 

There is no limit to the number of GED Ready practice tests that you can purchase. Please note that each purchase provides one GED Ready practice test for you to take. below

There are 38 GED® test centres in South Africa at Boston VUE Testing Centres. When you book your exam online you will be given the option of choosing the test centre closest to you. You can choose from available dates and time slots and book a test date and time that is convenient for you.

Students must book their exams online at the official GED® Testing Service website. A fee of US$80 per test must be paid online using a credit/debit card. The GED® Ready Test can also be booked on this page.

The exams consist of four subjects, which can be booked to write on different days.

  1. – Reasoning through Language Arts – 150 minutes (includes a 10 minute break)
  2. – Mathematical Reasoning – 90 minutes
  3. – Science – 90 minutes
  4. – Social Studies – 90 minutes

Each exam is scored on a scale from 100 to 200. You must achieve a minimum of 145 for each subject to pass, which equals 60-65%. You must pass ALL four subjects to achieve a GED® pass.

No. There are no outside electronic devices allowed in the testing room. However, for the portions of the exam where a calculator is allowed, it is available on-screen, within the test. We recommend this tutorial to familiarise yourself with the online calculator.  https://ged.com/practice-test/en/calculator/

No, you may not take anything into the testing venue. You are provided with an on-screen calculator for any calculations required.

Yes. A student is allowed three attempts. If a student still doesn’t pass, the exam may only be rewritten again 60 days later. Each attempt incurs the standard booking cost.

Yes. GED® is  committed to providing students with full access to the GED® exams for anyone with disabilities and support the intention of the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended (ADAAA). Test accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis and include things such as extra testing time, extra breaks, and a separate testing room. 

More information is available HERE and they can be contacted on 011 – 083 6433.

Types of supported disabilities include:-

  • Learning & Cognitive Disorders (LCD)
  • Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Psychological & Psychiatric Disorders (EPP)
  • Physical Disabilities & Chronic Health Conditions (PCH)

Yes. You may only begin studying GED® once you have turned 16 years old, and you may only write the GED® exam once you have turned 17 years old.

When you have written and passed all FOUR exams you will receive an electronic version of your GED® High School Equivalency Credential, issue by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education in Washington, DC. You will receive two emails from “Parchment”, which will be sent to the email address registered in your profile. Each email will have a link to a copy of your electronic Diploma and Transcript. It is important that you download these documents immediately and keep them in a safe place, as the links will expire.

To achieve a passing score on the GED® test, you must score at least 145 on each of the four subject tests. This score demonstrates that you have met high school-level competency. 

Scoring 165 or higher on any of the GED® subject tests qualifies for a GED® Honours pass, also referred to as “GED® College Ready + Credit.” This level of achievement indicates a higher mastery of high school subjects and readiness for college-level coursework.

A GED® Honours pass can make you eligible for college credits at certain higher education institutions, allowing you to potentially bypass introductory courses. This can save both time and tuition costs. Additionally, a GED® Honours pass can strengthen your applications for college admissions and improve employment prospects by demonstrating superior academic performance.

Yes, you are allowed to retake the GED® test to improve your scores. This option is beneficial if you are targeting a higher score for specific academic or professional goals or if you need to pass a section that you did not clear in your initial attempt.

You can find study guides, practice tests, and other preparation resources at the official GED® Testing Service website, GED.com. These resources provide valuable information and tools to help you effectively prepare for the test.

The testing centre will log a case with Pearson VUE. They will email you with the approval to re-sit the test. You will then need to contact Pearson VUE directly on +27 11 083 8844 / +44 161 855 7440 to re-book your test.