New Mexico

Deciding to get your GED® in New Mexico is a huge step, and you’re doing it. As you make a plan and carry out the steps, you can take the reins of your life and create more opportunities for your future. Change is never easy, and you probably have lots of questions. You’ve come to the right place; we are the official site of the GED® and will walk you through every step. Your journey begins today. Take advantage of flexible schedules, accessible study plans, and plenty of support. With the proper tools, you can access more stable employment and advanced education opportunities.

FAQs for Earning a GED in New Mexico

Top Policies

How old do I need to be to take the test?

You must be 18 years old to test in New Mexico.

You can be 16 or 17 years old and take the GED® test if you submit a permission form with consent from your  local school district, as well as from your parents or guardians.

 

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • A parent or guardian must be present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize the underage tester to be recorded during testing. If the parent or guardian is not present, the exam session will be revoked.

No, there is no residency requirement to take the test in New Mexico.

Some states allow people who don’t live there to take the GED® test and others don’t. You’ll need to check the residency requirement for the state that you’re interested to test in.

No, New Mexico doesn’t require you to prepare for the GED® test in an adult education classroom.

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center: 

  • No, you’re not required to take the GED Ready® practice test before taking the official GED® test. 

For those testing on the Online Exam: 

  • Yes, you are required to take the GED Ready® practice test before taking the official GED® test online. 

No, there is no time limit to complete all modules.

Price & Payment

What is my cost if I test at a Test Center?

  • Starting July 1, 2023: New Mexico charges $26 per subject for the GED® test at a Test Center.

 

What is my cost if I test Online?

  • New Mexico charges $36 per subject for the GED® test taken online

You will pay for the test online with a debit or credit card when you schedule your test.

Test Retake Policies

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center 

  • In New Mexico, there is no waiting period if you do not pass a subject area test the first time. After taking a test subject 3 times, you'll have to wait 60 days before retesting. There's no limit to how many times you can test in a year.

For those testing on the Online Exam: 

  • The Online Proctored Exam allows for one retake before a 60 day waiting period. After taking a test subject two times online, you’ll have to wait 60 days before retesting.  

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center: 

  • You currently receive 2 discounted retakes for every GED® test subject purchased but don’t pass. You have 365 days after your full price test to use these retakes.
  • Starting July 1, 2023: You will receive one discounted* retake for every GED® test subject you purchase but don’t pass. You have 365 days after your full price test to use this retake. This retake offer (1 full price:1 discount) repeats until you pass the test. GED Testing Service waives its $26 testing fee, however additional testing fees may still apply in your state.
*In New Mexico, there is no test center fee for GED® test retakes.

 

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • The Online Proctored Exam costs $36 for a retake in New Mexico. Discounted retakes are not offered on the Online Proctored Exam. 

Transcripts & Diploma

You can request a duplicate transcript or diploma through Diploma Sender. You will need a credit or debit card to complete your order online. If after visiting Diploma Sender's website you continue to have questions please contact your state's official at (505) 827-6507.

You can request a duplicate transcript or diploma through Diploma Sender. You will need a credit or debit card to complete your order online.

In New Mexico, the credential is called the New Mexico High School Diploma.

Other

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center:

  • Yes, in New Mexico you can take all test subjects in the same day if you can find a testing center with hours that accommodate it.

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • No, you must schedule your test appointments separately, one at a time. After you complete one online exam you may schedule another, based on appointment availability.

Yes, in New Mexico you can test in English or Spanish and you can combine tests from different languages to earn your credential.

It depends on whether or not that state has a residency requirement.  Check the residency requirements in that state and don’t hesitate to contact the GED Administrator in that state with questions.

Katya Backhaus (she/her/hers)

State High School Equivalency and Data Administrator, Adult Education Division
2044 Galisteo Street, Suite 4,
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Katya.Backhaus@state.nm.us
(505) 660 -8824

How to Earn a GED® in New Mexico

Are you ready? Let’s begin this exciting process!

Create a Free Account

If you haven’t already, you must sign up for an account with us. Follow these step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the setup process. If you’ve already set up your account, log in now to continue.

Make Sure You Qualify

Do you meet the qualifications for the GED? Verify that you’re:
  • Officially withdrawn from high school
  • Not a recipient of a high school diploma
  • 18 years of age or older
If you’re at least 16, you may qualify for the GED® exam if you submit a permission form with parental consent and approval from your local school district. You do not have to be an official resident of New Mexico to take the GED® test.

Properly Prepare

Most students take two to three months to study for this exam. Enroll in prep classes to give yourself every advantage. Even though they’re not required, courses prepare you by thoroughly reviewing the subjects on the exam.

Budget for the Test

In New Mexico, it costs $80 to take the computer-based test at a local testing center. If you prefer to take the online exam on your own, the cost is $172.

Consider In-Person Classes

If you’re preparing to start classes, it’s worth comparing online and in-person options. Our in-person courses may be your best fit if you do better in a more traditional learning environment. Other benefits of taking these classes include:
  • Supportive staff
  • Experienced teachers
  • Flexible schedules
  • Diverse curriculum
  • Participation in study groups
  • Thorough preparation
  • Encouragement
  • Employment counselors
  • College counselors
  • Quizzes
  • Practice tests and reviews
These centers also provide secure and quiet spaces to take the GED® test. Contact one near you for more information.

GED® Exam Online in New Mexico

Do you thrive learning in an online format? Does your busy schedule limit the time you can spend traveling for in-person course attendance? No problem—we have a flexible option for earning your GED® in New Mexico. Prepare online by studying the materials at your own pace, reviewing, and taking the New Mexico GED Ready® practice test from the comfort of your home. Once you pass the practice test, you can take the official GED® exam online anywhere. Just ensure you have a stable internet connection and a computer with a webcam. You don’t have to disrupt any family obligations or full-time work schedules. Our online programs, with flexible and accommodating schedules, allow you to achieve this important goal when it works for you.

Begin This Journey Today

You’ve made the decision, so let’s get started. Locate GED® classes near you and schedule your GED® test now.