The clock is ticking for SCC students working toward obtaining their GED as the current test will expire at the end of this year and will be replaced with a new exam on January 2, 2014. Those who have taken the current test, but have not passed all five parts, have until the end of 2013 to complete them or they will have to start over from the beginning in 2014.

“This is a nation-wide initiative for all GED test takers,” says Candace Taylor, director of Butler Basic Skills at Sampson Community College. “We want to make students aware of the looming deadline and stress the importance of completing the GED test now because a lot of changes are headed our way,” adds Taylor. One of these modifications includes condensing the current five testing subjects: writing, social studies, science, reading and math into four content areas: math reasoning, science, social studies and language arts. Another change is a huge spike in testing fees. The current cost of $35 could increase to as much as $100 or more.

Additionally, starting in 2014, the new GED test on computer will be offered only at authorized testing centers and will not be available online. “The new test will require people to integrate themselves with keyboarding skills – something that test takers may not be accustomed to,” comments Taylor. “However, our faculty and staff are committed to incorporating these skills in our classrooms as well as mentoring students to ease their anxiety.”

The GED was originally developed by the American Council on Education in 1942 as a way to demonstrate high school equivalency for World War II veterans. Since its inception, more than 18 million people have passed the GED test, and more than 250 pass the exam each year at SCC.

“The GED test opens doors to college, better jobs and the respect and satisfaction of earning a high school credential,” adds Donnette Pope, chief GED examiner at SCC. “Support is available for our adult learners as there is still time to begin and complete all five parts of the GED if they act now.”

To find out more about the GED program at SCC, visit Butler Basic Skills Monday through Thursday from 8am-5pm and Friday from 8am-12pm. All classes and study materials are free to students. For more information, visit www.sampsoncc.edu or call Nydia Gonzalez or Candy Taylor at 592-7176.