Frequently Asked Questions about the GED Test
What does it cost to take the GED?
Each test or re-test costs $20, which must be paid at the cashier's office in advance of testing. Some scholarships are available through the SFCC Grow Foundation office. You should check with that office about scholarships.
How do I register to take the test?
Registration for exams given on Wenesday is on a first-come, first-served same-day basis. Registrations are accepted on the day of the test between 8:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Registration for exams given on Monday is on a pre-registration basis. Registrations are accepted anytime before the day of the test during regular center hours until 1:30 p.m. on test day. Candidates who pre-register then fail to show for a scheduled exam will be subject to a $20 rescheduling fee.
What should I do in advance of taking the test?
The smartest thing you can do before taking the test is be absolutely sure you are ready. SFCC's Adult Basic Education department offers free GED preparation courses and can give you a "pre-test" to see where your skills are in each of the five main subject areas: writing, reading, mathematics, social studies and science.
What do I have to have to take the test?
If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must obtain from the Testing Center an "Underage Permission Form" to get signed by your parent/guardian AND by the Superintendent of the Public Schools. You must present this form with all its signatures to the Examiner on the day of the test. If you do not have this form, you will not be allowed to test according to NM state GED rules. The Testing Center cannot waive this requirement for anyone.
You must also bring with you to registration and to the test a current government-issued photo ID that indicates name, address, date of birth and signature. The best form of ID is driver's license or state identification card. You can also use a passport or a military ID card. School IDs will not be accepted as a primary form of ID, according to state and federal GED rules. The Testing Center cannot waive this requirement for anyone.
When are the GED tests offered?
The SFCC Testing Center offers GED tests in sequences of two or three tests every Wednesday and every other Monday.
Click here for our Fall 2009 GED® Testing Schedule in English.
Click here for our Fall 2009 GED® Testing Schedule in Spanish.
What is the room like where I take the test?
We try to keep a constant temperature in the room, but weather changes outside affect the atmosphere inside. It's always a good idea to dress in layers for any testing environment. You can add or peel a layer according to your own comfort level.
What should I NOT bring with me?
Backpacks, large purses, preparation guides, etc should not be brought into the Testing Center. No electronic devices of any kind, including cell phones, are allowed in the testing rooms. All personal items must go into secured lockers in the reception area. Finally, you cannot bring food and drink into the Testing Center.
What happens during the test?
You will be given instructions for each test, and you should listen carefully to the Examiner at all times. You should know that bathroom breaks during a test session are not allowed, so take care of all business before testing!
How long does it take to get scores?
The Testing Center has to send all answer sheets to the Oklahoma Scoring Service to be graded. On average, it will take two weeks for you to receive a score report in the mail. This report is sent to the address you provide when you fill out your paperwork, so if your information changes at any time, you must let the Testing Center know immediately. You don't want to be wondering where your scores are!
What happens if I don't pass a test?
Each of the five tests (in English or Spanish) requires a minimum of 410 to pass, and all five tests must average a 450. If you do not make the minimum requirement or your overall average is not high enough, you will have to retest. There is a waiting period for retesting, according to NM state GED rules. If you have finished all five tests and only need to retake one of the five, the waiting period is 31 calendar days. If you need to retake more than one, you must wait 61 calendar days. The Testing Center cannot waive this requirement, and if you forget and test too early, the new score will not count.
What if I need special accommodations to take a test?
The GED® does allow special testing accommodations for those examinees who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Permission for accommodations must be given from the New Mexico State GED® Administrator, but the process for receiving accommodations begins with the local Testing Center. Accommodations requests can take considerable time to process, so students should begin the request process at least two months before they intend to test. Please speak with one of the GED® examiners in the SFCC Testing Center for more information.
For more information, please contact CJ Phillips or Rowena Sherman, (505) 428-1532, rsherman@sfcc.edu.


