Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a certain age to take the test?

YES. You must be at least 17 years old in order to take the GED. If you are not yet 17, please discuss your options with your school counselor and the Re-Engagement Specialist for Dropout Intervention. 

Where do I take the GED Test?

The Douglas County School District GED Testing Center is housed with the DC Student Assistance Department located at: 373 Inverness Pkwy, Suite 201, Englewood, CO 80112. 

Do I get a diploma if I take the GED?  

YES! GED testing services sends a link for you to receive a free diploma and a copy of your transcripts stating you are a high school completer. You can find more information here.

Will community colleges accept a GED? 

YES!  The scores you receive on your GED matter!

• 145-150 is considered a Passing Score.

• 165-Passing plus College Ready (Ready to take college level classes)

• 175-Passing, College Ready PLUS credit (Qualify for up to 10 college credits)

Read more about this from GED.com: About GED Scores 

Will my future opportunities be affected by going the GED direction?

No! Students in Colorado that pass the GED have a lot of options for applying to community colleges, trade schools, and other career opportunities. If you're interested in a four-year college, you may have to start at a community college, but there are some four-year schools that accept the GED. 

If you're interested in the military, we recommend that you meet with a military recruiter for the branch that you're looking into to determine their eligibility requirements. 

How much does it cost for me to pursue the GED?

• $43.50 per GED test subject ($174 Total) - covered by DCSD if you test at our DCSD GED Center

• $21.25 retake cost per GED test subject

• $6.99 GED Ready Official Practice Test and Diagnostic per subject (not required but recommended)

How long does the test take?

Length of tests varies: 

• Science (90 minutes)

• Mathematics (120 minutes) Part 1 – calculator not allowed; Part 2 – calculator allowed

• Social Studies (75 minutes)

• Reasoning through Language Arts (155 minutes)

What do I need to bring with me the day of the test(s)?

• You must have a valid, government-issued picture ID with date of birth and signature.  When you register with GED Testing Service®, enter your name exactly as it appears on your ID. 

• Water & Snacks

Please note:  You are required to bring your ID to each testing appointment. If you do not have your ID, you will not be allowed to test. 

What are the GED Testing dates?

• Testing occurs by appointment only.

• The DCSD GED Center follows the DCSD Calendar for holidays, breaks and closures, which can be found here.

• Please call 303-387-9675 to schedule your appointments. 

What happens if I don't pass one of the tests the first time?

GED Testing Service® has implemented a discounted re-test program.  Every student is eligible for two discounted retakes for each GED® subject taken. The discounted retakes ($21.25) are valid for twelve months after the initial test attempt. Students can test three times on the same subject with no wait time between appointments.  Then there is a 60-day waiting period before your next attempt on that subject. 

We recommend that you attend the free tutoring center to study for the test before you re-take it.

Can I take the GED if I have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)? 

Possibly! Please discuss your interest in the GED with your IEP Case Manager and School Counselor to see if it is a realistic option for you.