Frequently Asked Questions

General Education Degree (GED) 

What is Kentucky Adult Education (KYAE)?
KYAE is a statewide program that helps adults strengthen academic and workforce skills, prepare for the GED® test, improve English-language skills, and transition to college, training, or employment.

Is JCPS Adult Education part of KYAE?
Yes. JCPS Adult Education is a local provider of Kentucky Adult Education services in Jefferson County.

Who can enroll in GED® preparation classes?
Adults who do not have a U.S. high school diploma may be eligible. Participants who completed school or earned a diploma or degree in another country may also enroll if they need a U.S.-recognized high school equivalency credential.

Are GED® preparation classes free?
Yes. GED® preparation classes offered through JCPS Adult Education are free to eligible participants.

Is the official GED® test free for KYAE students?
Eligible students enrolled and actively participating in a KYAE program may take the official GED® test at no cost after meeting program and testing-readiness requirements. Speak with your instructor before scheduling your test.

Do I have to attend GED® classes before testing?
Kentucky does not require adults to attend preparation classes. However, KYAE classes provide instruction, practice, and support that can help you prepare and may allow eligible students to test at no cost.

Will I take an assessment before beginning classes?
Yes. An initial assessment helps us understand your current skills, learning needs, and the best place for you to begin.

How long will it take to prepare?
Preparation time is different for every student. It depends on your current skills, attendance, study time, and progress.

Can I take classes online?
Online and in-person options may be available. Class schedules and availability can change, so contact JCPS Adult Education for current options.

What support is available after I earn my GED®?
Our staff can help you explore college, career training, industry certifications, employment opportunities, and other educational goals.

For GED® Testers

What subjects are included on the GED® test?
The test includes four separate subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. You may take the subjects separately and at your own pace. GED® Test Subjects

Do I have to take all four tests on the same day?
No. You can take one subject at a time. Kentucky also allows all four in-person tests to be taken on the same day when the testing center’s schedule permits.

What score do I need to pass?
You must earn a score of at least 145 on each of the four subject tests. GED® Score Information

Do I have to take the GED Ready® practice test?
Yes. Kentucky requires testers to pass the GED Ready® practice test for each subject before scheduling the corresponding official test. KYAE students may take the practice test at no cost through their local adult education program.

How old must I be to test in Kentucky?
Adults age 19 or older can test without meeting Kentucky’s underage requirements. Testers who are 17 or 18 must meet additional eligibility and withdrawal requirements.

Can I take the GED® test if I am 18 or younger?
Possibly. Kentucky has specific requirements for 17- and 18-year-old testers. Contact JCPS Adult Education for assistance before registering.

Do I need to be a Kentucky resident?
Yes. Kentucky requires testers to be state residents with a Kentucky mailing address.

Can I take the test in Spanish?
Yes. Kentucky offers the GED® test in English and Spanish. However, you cannot combine tests taken in different languages to earn the credential.

Can I take the GED® test online?
Online testing is available to eligible Kentucky testers. You will need a passing GED Ready® score, a computer with a webcam, reliable internet, a private testing space, and an acceptable government-issued photo ID.

What should I bring to an in-person test?
Bring an acceptable, current government-issued photo ID. Review your appointment confirmation for the testing center’s arrival time and other requirements.

Are testing accommodations available?
Yes. Accommodations may be available for individuals with documented disabilities. Requests must be submitted and approved before the test is scheduled.

What happens if I do not pass a subject?
You may retake that subject. Kentucky’s waiting periods and fees depend on how many attempts you have made and whether you test in person or online.

When will I receive my results?
Test scores are posted to your GED.com account after testing. Processing time may vary.

What credential will I receive?
After passing all four subjects and meeting Kentucky’s requirements, you will receive the Commonwealth of Kentucky High School Equivalency Diploma.

How do I receive my diploma and transcript?
Kentucky automatically provides a free electronic diploma and transcript after you pass. Additional or replacement copies can be ordered through GED.com.

Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment (KPA) 

What does KPA stand for?
KPA stands for Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment.

Who should take the KPA?
The assessment is intended for individuals interested in becoming paraeducators who do not already meet the education requirements through college coursework or a degree.

What is covered on the assessment?
The KPA measures reading, writing, and mathematics skills needed to support classroom instruction.

How many questions are on the KPA?
The assessment includes 60 multiple-choice questions.

What score is required to pass?
You must answer at least 48 of the 60 questions correctly.

Is preparation available?
Yes. Preparation classes help participants review essential skills and become familiar with the assessment format.

Does passing guarantee employment?
No. Passing meets one qualification pathway, but applicants must still complete the school district’s hiring requirements.

How do I register?
Select an available preparation class or testing session and complete the registration form.

English Language Learner / English Second Language (ELL / ESL) 

How much does it cost?

How long does the program take?

Do I need a high school diploma?

Can I participate while working?

What should I bring?

Is assistance available in another language?

What happens after I register?