GED Preparation

Do you want to pass the GED? The GED (General Educational Development) Preparation program helps students gain the essential skills needed for the GED. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills in each area of the test: Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, and Science. Separate classes for each of the subject areas are designed to give you the specific skills you need to pass each section. However, everything you learn will also prepare you for the next step on your educational or career path.

Earning your GED pays! In 2020, full-time workers without a high school diploma had median weekly earnings of $619, compared with $781 for high school graduates. That is a 26% increase in pay! (United States Bureau of Labor Statistics) By earning your GED, you qualify for many more jobs and potential employers will see you have the foundational skills they are looking for.

Students who reach competencies may advance to develop skills for the workplace and to prepare for future educational opportunities.

Complete at least two courses and earn a Certificate of Competency, GED Preparation.

DEGREES & CERTIFICATES

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GED/HiSET Preparation – Certificate of Competency (C-COMPE)

View all LBCC’s Programs of Study and Curriculum Guides.
(New students need to refer to the current academic year for the most up-to-date info) 

Receiving a Degree/Certificate

Class Schedule

Make an Appointment

CAREER INFO

The following is a sampling from the list of innumerable potential jobs requiring a High School Degree or less.

Earning your GED by preparing through the program opens the door to a vast number of potential jobs and can expose you to many career options. It also provides the essential skills you need to advance to higher learning in college and for success in any field. After earning your GED, there are many certificate and degree programs students can explore at LBCC, which can lead to high-paying jobs and rewarding careers. 

To explore potential jobs in this field of study, we strongly urge you to visit LBCC Career Center. Working with a career counselor, we will assess your strengths, skills, interests, and accomplishments to help you identify internship opportunities and career goals that match your educational and professional needs.

FAQ

(click questions below to reveal the answer)

What is the format of the class?

When you take our GED courses, you will meet with an instructor once per week in real time. You will also access the class website on Canvas where you will find all the materials and information about the class. Your instructor will assign due dates, but since much of the work is completed online you can do so easily and conveniently. It is a good idea to complete all your assignments before your weekly meeting with the instructor, so that you can ask questions about any material that you did not understand.

Are there any material or book fees?

No, all materials are provided in the course by your instructor.

Do you have to be an LBCC student to take the class?

Yes. To register in the course, you must first enroll at the College. There are several steps you must complete. Please follow the steps described on page 11 of the LBCC Non-credit Catalog.

Is attendance mandatory?

Yes. Students are required to attend class sessions to successfully complete the course.

What do I need to prepare for the class?

Currently, you will need regular access to a computer or laptop and Wi-Fi access. Read Computer or Internet Support if you need help accessing the Internet.

If I pass both classes, where/how do I get my certificate?

Your instructor will provide information on how to apply for your official LBCC certificate.

Where can I take the test?

You can take the test online from home or at one of the following GED testing centers.

Is there financial assistance to pay for the GED test?

Depending on available funds, we may be able to offer testing fee assistance. Contact your instructor to find out if there are any funds currently available.

Where can I get more information about the GED test?

The company that produces the GED test has a website. You can browse the GED test site for the latest GED information.

What if I already passed some of the GED subject tests?

You can get transcripts of having passed tests here. Only take the preparation classes you need to pass the remaining sections.

How do I know if I passed?

Scores are typically posted within 24 hours of taking your GED® test or GED Ready® practice test. However, sometimes it can take up to 2 to 3 business days. You will receive an email once your scores have been posted. Your scores can be found on the ‘My Scores’ page after logging in.

If I passed, where/how do I get my certificate/transcripts/diploma?

You can get transcripts of having passed tests here.

Is there a fee for preparation?

No. Our courses are non-credit and therefore have no tuition. Other sites may charge fees.

What score do I need to get to pass?

You will need to score at least 145 on each subject to pass the GED test. However, if you score higher it may help you, as some colleges use GED scores for placement.

Can I get testing accommodations if I am disabled?

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. If you need a testing accommodation, you can request one prior to scheduling your test.

Can I use a calculator during the test?

Yes. The TI-30XS is allowed.

Will I be able to take all the tests all at once?

You can schedule your tests one at a time or take up to all four at once. You can space them out however it suits you and go at your own pace. The four tests range from 70 to 150 minutes each.

What age do I have to be?

In California, you must be 18 years old or within 60 days of your 18th birthday. There are some additional exceptions for 17-year-olds who meet certain other criteria.

How many tries or retakes do I get?

If you did not pass one of your GED subject tests, you are given two subsequent retests, with no restrictions between retakes. If you fail the third or any subsequent retest, you must wait 60 days for your next attempt.

Is there a charge to retake a subject test?

Yes, there is a $15 retake fee.

What is the difference between HISET vs GED?

Both tests can earn you a California High School Equivalency Diploma. There are a few differences:

• GED test is offered on computer only. HiSET is offered both computer and pencil-and-paper.
• GED has four subject tests. The HiSET has five.
• The HiSET question formats are multiple choice and essay questions. The GED question format includes extended response, fill-in-the blank, drag and drop, drop down, hot spot, multiple choice, and short answer. 
• The GED is 7 hours 25 minutes long and the HiSET is 7 hours 5 minutes long.
• The HiSET is $160 for all subject tests and the GED is $140.

Do I have to pass all subject tests?

You must pass all tests in order to get your GED, but you do not need to pass them all at once.

If I start the test at one location, can I finish at another? Is there a cost to do this?

Yes. Each part of the test is paid for separately. Most locations only require you to pay for the test, but check for any additional fees with the specific testing location. Other states, however, may have different rules.

Can I take the test online?

Yes, you can, provided your computer meets certain criteria and you make arrangements ahead of time. If you find out you are not prepared on the day of the test, you will lose your testing fee.

What languages is the GED offered in?

The GED is offered in both English and Spanish. LBCC offers GED preparation in both languages.

What do I do after I finish my GED?

Upon completing your GED, you can add this distinction to your resume and any job applications you complete. You can also explore further educational and career opportunities here at LBCC and elsewhere. We encourage you to go as far as you can!

Whom can I contact for more information?

Emily Yasutomi 
Job Title: Faculty Instructional Specialist
Office Location: EE-206, Pacific Coast Campus
Phone Number: 562-938-3980
Email: eyasutomi@lbcc.edu