GED Prep & Testing
Getting the New Mexico High School Diploma, by taking the General Education Development (GED) examination, can be an important step in your life. This diploma can open doors to college and to employment as well as giving a sense of accomplishment and completion.
A visit to the Office of Adult Basic Education will help you get started. At the office you can:
- take the GED pre-tests to become familiar with the format of the examination
- identify weak areas that need review
- take classes or tutoring as necessary
- find out the dates for the official GED examination
- watch the instructional math video
- take English as a Second Language classes
The GED battery of tests consists of five exams: Writing, Social Studies, Science, Literature, and Math. It is usually taken over a series of three Fridays. The results of the Writing test take several weeks to be processed because the essay is read and scored by at least two readers. All tests are scored by the Oklahoma Scoring Service.
The cost of signing up for the GED is $50, which covers all five exams. Retakes are $10 each. There is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before retaking a test. There is a $3 no show fee. Copies of GED transcripts will be available from the Advising Office in Student Services approximately four days after you receive your scores/copy in the mail.
If you plan to attend college at NMSU-Alamogordo, or another college, and are interested in financial aid, you should apply immediately because it can take up to 12 weeks to find out if you are eligible for financial aid. You do not need to have completed your GED examination to apply for financial aid.
“Financial Aid” includes grants (such as pell grants, which do not need to be repaid), loans (which must be repaid), and work study positions. A grant for someone who is full eligible will usually cover tuition, books, and fees. You do not need to attend full time to receive federal financial aid. However, if you are eligible for the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship, you will need to complete 12 credits (i.e., be full-time) the first semester after you complete your GED. (Foreign students are not eligible for financial aid.)
Advisors are available in the Advising Office in Student Services on a walk-in basis from 8:30 - 5:30, Monday through Thursday. They would be glad to talk to you about getting started on your college education.
Telephone: 439-3720
Email: advisor@nmsua.nmsu.edu
The Adult Basic Education Office is located in the Tays Special Events Center. For more information call the ABE Office at 439-3812.
