Over the next few weeks, the state is offering free GED testing to eligible Kentucky residents .
The GED Testing Service hasn’t updated the high school equivalency exam in nearly a decade. Beginning in January 2014, the new test will be more closely aligned with the common core standards many states have already adopted. The testing fee will also double to $120.In Kentucky, nearly 16,000 residents have started but not completed the GED test, which includes five separate parts. Anyone who hasn’t completed the exam by Dec. 18 will have to take the entire test over when it changes next year.In Jefferson County, since WFPL last checked with the state in November, 523 people have completed the GED, but there are still 2,028 who have started but not yet completed the test.The Kentucky Adult Education agency is paying the fee--$60 for paper and pencil test, $120 for online--through the end of July for those eligible to take the test in an attempt to increase educational attainment in the commonwealth.Passage rate in the state is at 80 percent, which is higher than the national average of 72 percent. State officials say it’s likely due to the requirement that all test takers complete a practice exam first.The free GED testing is good through July 31. To see more information, click here.
