Most states do not require GED test-takers to first attend a prep course or take and pass a GED practice test before sitting for the official exams.  In South Carolina, you can schedule and take the GED without taking classes first. However, the GED test is quite challenging, and proper preparation is crucial! If you need us, we offer preparation classes and we are here to help!  

Classes are free.  We work with partners to obtain grant funding so that your only focus is to finish your education!

The length of time it takes an individual to study for and successfully take all GED subtests varies.   Your  teacher will use your TABE assessment results to identify your strengths and weaknesses in order to individualize your study plan. Each student's plan varies depending on how much you have retained, how much time you're willing to spend working on the curriculum outside of class,  and how much you actively participate while in class.  Our most successful students commit 40 hours per semester and set aside regular study time outside of class time.

Students in South Carolina may engage in unlimited tutoring sessions (in English AND Spanish) to meet their academic goals via  SC Discus, South Carolina's Virtual Library. When students complete the information to connect with a live tutor, for the “Grade” option,  select “Adult.” Creating an account is optional and not required to connect with a tutor. However, it is highly recommended that you create an account because this FREE service will unlock options to: mobile app for iPod Touch, iPhone, and iPad;  allow you to return to your favorite tutor; store assignments, class notes, projects, and more, online; and review and share saved sessions.  

You must be 19 years old to test in South Carolina.  If you are underage, you will need special permission. Click here for the link to the Verification of Withdrawal from South Carolina Schools form.

In South Carolina, you can be 16*, 17 or 18 and take the GED® test if you have a South Carolina Verification of School Withdrawal form completed by the principal or attendance supervisor of the last school you attended. 

• If you are 16 years old, you must be under the jurisdiction of DJJ or court order letter must be sent into the state GED® office in Columbia.

Yes, any subtests taken prior to 2014 are invalid because the GED was revised in 2014.

Yes, you must provide proof of SC residency as well as valid/current identification. This can be accomplished by using one of the following two methods.

1. Present a valid/current SC driver’s license or a valid/current SC identification card (issued by the SCDMV).  This one piece of identification satisfies both identification and residency proof requirements.

or

2. Present one approved form of proof of residency AND one approved form of identification.

The approved forms of proof of residency are:

• Utility bill (electric, gas, water, sewer)

• Utility bill in another person’s name, with dated affidavit from that person stating the candidate lives at that address.

• Property tax bill (for home or land, copy)

• Property Tax bill in another person’s name, with dated affidavit from that person stating the candidate lives at that address.

• Lease (copy)

• Lease in another person’s name, with dated affidavit from that person stating the candidate lives at that address.

The approved forms of identification are:

• • • Out of State License/ID*

    • Military ID

    • Passport (U.S. or other country)*

    • U.S. Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

    • Permanent Resident/Green Card

    • U.S. Visa

*The out of state driver’s license/ID and the passport require documentation of the state / country of origin.

There is a fee for GED testing.  South Carolina charges $37.50 per module for the GED® test.  With your help, however, we will work to obtain grant funding on your behalf. If you wish to take the test without our teacher referral, you will pay for the test online with a debit or credit card when you schedule your test.  If you need to retake a subject, South Carolina allows 2 discounted retakes at $17.50 per subject.

The High School Equivalency and Replacement Diploma Office of the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is responsible for the archiving of student permanent records of former and alumni SCDE students.  SCDE is now offering a convenient and secure website for former students and corporations to request transcripts and student records online.  Please note, if you have withdrawn at any time during the current school year, contact the last school attended for copies of records.  

If the student is 18 years of age or older, school records will not be released to a parent, guardian, or responsible person without the student’s written consent.  Click here for more information on how to make an Online Records Request. 

Students in South Carolina may engage in unlimited tutoring sessions (in English AND Spanish) to meet their academic goals via  SC Discus, South Carolina's Virtual Library. When students complete the information to connect with a live tutor, for the “Grade” option,  select “Adult.” Creating an account is optional and not required to connect with a tutor. However, it is highly recommended that you create an account because this FREE service will unlock options to: mobile app for iPod Touch, iPhone, and iPad;  allow you to return to your favorite tutor; store assignments, class notes, projects, and more, online; and review and share saved sessions.  

Charleston Adult Education offers online and hybrid classes for the following programs:

• GED Preparation

• High School Diploma Completion

• English as a Second Language

It is possible for you to attend our GED preparation class sessions using an internet-connected smartphone, tablet, or other handheld device.  Depending on the size of the screen you use, you may experience challenges that would be more readily overcome with access to a device with a larger screen and keyboard. Students will be able to make appointments to access computers at SC Works.

Students of the High School Diploma program, however, must have access to a desktop or laptop computer to complete course assignments. 

The total learning experience is different online than in face-to-face classes. While you will cover the same material as students in a traditional classroom setting, you may find that your learning experience will rely heavily on your willingness to accept the uniqueness of the online classroom environment.

Online learning places a tremendous amount of responsibility on the student. If you thrive in an environment of personal responsibility, can stay organized, and can juggle multiple assignments at once, then online learning might be a great fit.

• Ability to work independently. 

• Strong time management skills.

• Ability to self-reflect.

• Being a thorough and comprehensive reader. 

• Commitment. 

• Knowing when to take breaks. 

• Willingness to take advantage of available support services. 

• Willingness to ask questions.

Students in South Carolina may engage in unlimited tutoring sessions (in English AND Spanish) to meet their academic goals via  SC Discus, South Carolina's Virtual Library. When students complete the information to connect with a live tutor, for the “Grade” option,  select “Adult.” Creating an account is optional and not required to connect with a tutor. However, it is highly recommended that you create an account because this FREE service will unlock options to: mobile app for iPod Touch, iPhone, and iPad;  allow you to return to your favorite tutor; store assignments, class notes, projects, and more, online; and review and share saved sessions.