Classes

General Education Development (GED®) tests are administered to approximately 700,000 people each year. This assessment provides adults who did not complete a formal high school program the opportunity to certify their attainment of high school-level academic knowledge and skills.

The assessment consists of four content area tests:

  • Reasoning Through Language Arts
  • Social Studies
  • Science
  • Mathematical Reasoning

The purpose of our GED program is to assist adult learners in obtaining skills that make them more successful and confident in the workplace and in society.Our classes are specifically designed for adults with different needs, backgrounds, and skills. For this reason, a flexible program has been created to meet each student’s needs.

GED instruction includes beginning reading, writing, and math all the way to high school completion through the General Educational Development (GED) Program.

 

The following GED services are offered at no cost:

  • Assessment of skills
  • Personal attention from students and tutors
  • Use of textbooks and computers
  • Individualized instruction
  • A comprehensive educational plan for each student
  • Life skills instruction
  • Materials to utilize while studying at home

 

English Literacy classes for non-English speakers are also a part of the curriculum. Besides the above GED services, additional support is offered for English Literacy classes at no cost:

  • Classes for all levels of learners
  • Awareness of the responsibilities and rights of citizens
  • Improved speaking, writing, and listening skills
  • Pronunciation and usage of the English language

For more information on our English classes, click here.

 

By taking the step to continue studying with us, you can:

  • Set your own goals
  • Have a schedule that fits your needs
  • Study in a location close to home or work
  • Receive instruction from experienced instructors
  • Use textbooks, computers, and software that are provided for your study.

 

To get started, call Adult Literacy Barrow at (770) 531-3361.

 

Locations and Hours

GED Classes in Auburn, GA:
Perry-Rainey Center
16 College Street
Auburn, GA 30011

GED Instruction:
Tuesday and Thursday
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

For more information on English instruction, please contact Adult Literacy Barrow at (770) 531-3361.

Home country identification accepted – call 770-531-3363



Free Spanish GED Classes – Clases gratuitas de GED en español
Adult Literacy Barrow @ Wimberly Center
163 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 531-3361

Spanish GED Instruction:
Tuesday
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Thursday
6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

For more information on English instruction, please contact Adult Literacy Barrow at (770) 531-3361.

Home country identification accepted – call 770-531-3363

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I qualify to take the GED® exam?

First, you must take GED classroom instruction and master four areas:  math reasoning, social studies, science reasoning, and language arts. There is no charge for the GED classroom instruction.

Am I eligible to take GED classroom instruction?

For ages 16-17, you must have a valid ID and a withdrawal form from the last high school you attended; if you are 18 or older, you must have a valid ID (Home Country ID is accepted).

How do I register for GED classroom instruction? 

Everyone is welcome. To register, go to www.laniertech.educ and click on the ‘Adult Education’ tab at the top. Then, click on the blue ‘I’m ready’ button at the bottom of the screen. Answer the questions, and attach the documents. You will then be contacted to schedule an assessment test.

What can I expect at the Assessment Test?

You will be assessed in math, social studies, science, and language arts to determine your skill level. After the assessment, it may be determined that you only need instruction in one area (such as math). If that is the case, your focus will be in that area.

How much do classes and assessments cost?

There is no charge for the classes we offer. They are provided to students free of charge by Adult Literacy Barrow, Lanier Technical College, the state of Georgia, and private donations.

There is a fee of $184 for the actual GED® exam (or $46 per section). However, there are scholarships available to assist in funding this cost.

Is an orientation necessary in order to take the GED® Test?

No, but an orientation is strongly recommended before registration for the GED® Test. This orientation includes items such as taking the diagnostic assessment test, watching a video about the use of the calculator on the GED® Test, and writing a brief essay on why you want a GED®.

How soon can I take the actual GED® test?

The answer to this question depends on several variables:

  • On what level you begin
  • How much time you spend studying
  • At what speed you learn

Is the GED® accepted just like a diploma across the nation?

The GED® Test is acknowledged across the nation. It is best to check with the college of your choice to determine its entrance requirements so that you can meet the necessary prerequisites.

Can I test at one location and study at another?

Yes, this happens quite frequently. Your instructor will assist you with needed information to make such decisions.

Why do I need to take the TABE test or register for classes?

Lanier Technical College strongly recommends an assessment be taken prior to registration for the GED® Test. The TABE assessment test pinpoints a potential and current student’s academic strengths and weaknesses. It assists the teacher in making recommendations about a course of study with the idea of saving the student’s time and money.

If I fail the GED®, do I have to take the whole thing over?

No, you only take the parts you fail. There is a $20.00 fee for each test that you retake.

What can I do to get ready on my own to take the GED®?

Online classes are available at Lanier Technical College for Adult Education in combination with attending classes. These classes are called hybrid classes.

Do you have materials I can check out to take home in order to study on my own?

The amount of materials available for check out varies from center to center. Please check with the instructor for availability. Generally, there are limited supplies for taking home. You may ask your instructor for the titles of items that may be purchased from local stores. All centers are able to provide online instruction from any computer connected to the Internet.

Do I have to register for classes, or can I just sign up to take the GED® Test?

All centers at Lanier Technical College strongly recommend a registration or orientation to the Adult Education Program. However, you can go to ged.com to schedule and pay for a GED test.

How long will it take to get my GED® test results?

In most cases, scores will be available in just a few minutes, although it may take 24 – 48 hours. All scores can be seen on your account on www.ged.com. Your official scores and your Diploma will arrive by mail in about 4 to 5 weeks.

What forms of identification are acceptable to register for the GED® test?

You will need an official government issued picture ID, such as drivers’ license, state ID card, or passport to register for the GED® test. You do not have to have an American ID. Home country ID’s are accepted.

If I have already taken the TABE, do I have to take it again?

The TABE is a diagnostic tool that is administered much as a physician administers a physical exam – to have a picture of a person’s needs and strengths and to measure a person’s progress. The TABE is given when a student enters the program so that the instructor may know what needs the student has. The survey form of the TABE is given quarterly to measure the student’s progress. If the student has been absent from the program for more than six months, the full TABE should be re-administered.

In an adult education program, what does the term under-age youth mean?

The term underage-youth refers to a student who is 16 or 17 years of age. State permission is required to allow these students to test for the GED®.

Can I sign up for the GED® Test as soon as I am 16 years old?

No. Please refer to the question below for the procedure regarding testing as an under-age youth.

If I am an under-age youth, what process do I need to follow to sign up for the GED® Test?

The following forms are required for all 16- and 17-year-olds in order to register for the GED® Test:

  • Parental permission
  • Letter of Withdrawal (This form must contain original signatures and a raised school seal.) It is advised that signatures be in blue ink.
  • A copy of the student’s state or federal identification (i.e., driver’s license, passport, or pedestrian ID)

If I am 17 years or younger, do I need a withdrawal letter if I have been home schooled?

Yes. You can obtain a form from the county board of education stating you are not enrolled in a school in the county. This form must have an original signature and an official raised seal.

Can I take the GED® test online?

The GED® test is available on computer at approved GED® testing centers. Go to www.ged.com to register and select the location where you’d like to test.

Is getting the GED® quicker and easier than finishing high school?

There is no easy way to get high school or GED® credentials. The High School Graduation Test and the GED® Test are difficult examinations. It is possible to finish the learning objectives for secondary school earlier by intensive preparation for the GED® Test even though this option is not for everyone.

Can I obtain my driver’s license while studying for the GED®?

The student would need to complete a form which is supplied by the Adult Education instructor and that has original signatures by the instructor and program director. The student submits this form to the Department of Driver Services (formerly Department of Motor and Vehicle Safety) as stated on the form.

How much time do I have to come to class in order to keep my driver’s license?

The instructor will work with each student to determine an attendance and performance contract to which the student signs, agreeing on the expected days and hours of attendance as well as other requirements for being in the program. The student must meet the prerequisite requirement of attending 5 classes and not being absent more than 10 consecutive days for unexcused absences as well as achieving a level completion.

Does Lanier Technical College offer online courses for the GED® Test?

It is important to note that the GED® Test is not offered online anywhere in the nation. The GED® Test must be taken at a nationally approved testing center. Any other test is not legitimate.

Our college does offer hybrid courses. In these courses students work in combination with an instructor in a center as well as at home. Lanier Technical College offers students in hybrid courses a web site and a password to access an extensive database of lessons which are self-paced. Please call a center for more specific information regarding our hybrid courses.

There are many groups in the community offering Adult Education classes, how do I know which groups are legitimate?

There are many groups out in the community that claim to offer Adult Education classes. There are two major rules of thumb regarding the legitimacy of these sites: the organization offering the program and the cost of the program. Organizations that are part of a technical college or school system are legitimate. There are a few other exceptions, but those exclusions are not found in the Lanier Technical college area. The other most important fact is whether the classes cost money. Classes should be free.

The money to run classes at Lanier Technical College comes from state and federal money and from private non-profit groups. It is a waste of resources to pay money for Adult Education classes. Paying money does not make the classes any more effective. No one has been in the Adult Education business longer or more successfully than Adult Education programs served by technical colleges and public school systems. No one has more dedicated or successful instructors than those serving our college. The best part is that the classes are absolutely free.

If I would like to volunteer, how do I go about letting Lanier Technical College know?

Lanier Technical College’s Adult Education program simply could not operate without the assistance of community volunteers. There are numerous ways to participate in our program: serving on local advisory boards, teaching classes, and/or working individually with students. To learn more about volunteer opportunities in your area, please contact your local center or call the main office for Adult Education at 770-531-3356.

I want to continue my education after I get my GED®. Can you help me?

Yes, we have transition counselors available to help you with the process of entering post secondary education.

In fact you don’t have to wait until you receive your GED®. You can take college courses at Lanier Technical College while completing your GED® through the Accelerating Opportunities (AO) dual enrollment program. For more information and eligibility requirements, view details about our program listed under the Adult Education section of our website.

GED® Testing Information

What are the GED® tests?
Lanier Technical College is an official GED Testing Center. Successful completion of the GED Test qualifies an individual for a state of Georgia High School Equivalency Diploma. GED credentials are accredited by industry, government, licensing boards, technical schools, colleges, universities, and employers as the equivalent to a high school diploma.

Computer based GED testing is available at Lanier Tech. Go to www.GED.com to register and schedule your test. Pick a test time and location that is convenient for you. Test scores are available within just a few days via your online account. Test centers are available in Commerce, Cumming, Dawsonville, Dahlonega, Gainesville, Homer, Oakwood, and Winder.

 

What subjects are on the GED tests?

 

GED Tests

Time Limits

Reasoning Through Language Arts

  • Section 1 (35 minutes*) tests all content
  • Section 2 (45 minutes) is the Extended Response portion of the test
  • Student break (10 minutes)
  • Section 3 (60 minutes*) tests all content

*The time allotted for sections 1 and 3 may vary slightly, but the total test time will always be 150 minutes.

150 minutes

Social Studies

  • Section 1 (65 minutes) tests all content
  • Section 2 (25 minutes) is the Extended Response portion of the test

90 minutes

Science

  • There are two Short Answer questions included on the test, but they are not timed separately. Students are expected to manage their time and spend about 10 minutes on each of the Short Answer questions.

90 minutes

Mathematical Reasoning

  • Part 1 (first 5 questions) calculators not allowed
  • Part 2 (remaining 41 test questions) calculators allowed
  • Students must submit their answers to the first five questions before moving on to the rest of the test. These parts are not timed separately.

115 minutes

 

What do the GED tests measure?
The Tests of General Educational Development (GED Tests) consist of four tests which measure achievement in subject areas generally associated with a high school program of study.
The four tests, and their relative content emphases, are:

 

1. Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)
The RLA test focuses on three grouping of skills:

  • The ability to read closely
  • The ability to write clearly
  • The ability to edit and understand the use of standard written English in context

2. Social Studies
The Social Studies Test will also focus on four major content domains:

  • Civics and government (50%)
  • United States history (20%)
  • Economics (15%)
  • Geography and the world (15%)

3. Science
The Science Test focuses on three major content domains:

  • Life Science (40%)
  • Physical Science (40%)
  • Earth and Space Science (20%)

4. Mathematics
The Mathematical Reasoning Test focuses on two major content domains:

  • Quantitative problem solving (45%)
  • Algebraic problem solving (55%)

 

Passing Scores:
The GED test will have a passing score of 144 on each test part. Therefore, you will need to reach a score of at least 145 on each part and a total score of 600 across the four-part battery in order to receive your GED test credential.

You may also earn an “Honors” score if you receive a score of 170 on a test part. Learn more about the honors score.

 

  • Below Passing: 100144
  • Passing Score: 145 – 169
  • Honors Passing Score: 170200

 

Costs:
The fee for GED Test full battery is $160.00. Each portion may be taken separately at a cost of $40.00 each. Retakes are only $20.00 per subject area at this time. Missing a scheduled test date will require signing up and paying again.

 

Georgia residents who earn a GED diploma are also awarded a $500 voucher from the HOPE Grant Program which can be applied towards some post-secondary educational costs.

 

Adult Literacy Barrow now offers child care and transportation for students.

We stand ready to help you in reaching your dreams and capturing your future.

Desmond Vaird
Statewide 2016 EAGLE Award winner from Lanier Tech’s Adult Education program.
2019 Literacy Ball
Heather Bagwell, Guest Speaker and GED graduate.