North Carolina

FAQs for Earning a GED in North Carolina

Top Policies

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

You must be 18 years old to test in North Carolina; however, a waiver to test at 16 or 17 may be granted if the student meets the following requirements.

If you are 16 or 17 years old, North Carolina requires approval for an exception. Contact your local North Carolina Basic Skills Education program for the appropriate form(s)

 

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • Minimum age for testing Online in North Carolina is 18. 
  • 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, in North Carolina you’re not required to be a resident, but you must take and pass the last test in your battery in North Carolina to be awarded a diploma from North Carolina.

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, North Carolina 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. 

Price & Payment

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

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

 

What is my cost if I test Online?

  • North Carolina 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 North Carolina, there is no waiting period for your first two retakes. After taking a test subject 3 times, you'll have to wait 60 days each time 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.
    *North Carolina does not charge for retakes.

For those testing on the Online Exam:  

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

Transcripts & Diploma

North Carolina has partnered with DiplomaSender.com  for fulfillment of requests for GED® transcripts and diplomas.

After passing the GED® test, you need to register with DiplomaSender.com to create a tester account and request your free North Carolina credentials: one official transcript and one diploma.

You must take action to receive your NC credentials.

You can request your transcript and diploma here.

In North Carolina, the credential is called the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges High School Equivalency Diploma.

Other Policies

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center:

  • Yes, in North Carolina you can take all test subjects on 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 North Carolina 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.

Jenifer Bean
Director of CCR Assessment and the High School Equivalency Office
North Carolina Community College System Office
200 W. Jones Street, Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 807-7214

How to Get a GED® in North Carolina

Embarking on a journey of personal growth and educational achievement is a transformative decision that has the power to shape your future. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, improve your career prospects, or pursue higher education, obtaining a GED® in North Carolina is a significant step toward reaching your goals. Did you know you can choose how you earn your GED? You can earn your GED® online in North Carolina for added flexibility and convenience, or you can choose traditional in-person classes for a more structured learning environment.

Creating Your Online Account

Did you know you can get a jump start on earning your GED® by creating a free GED.com account? Your account provides abundant resources and benefits. Signing up for a new account is easy. Your free account will help you find online and in-person classes and testing centers. It also offers access to resources like study materials and North Carolina GED® practice tests. Plus, you can track your GED® progress and goals! To create an account, you will need to provide:
  • A valid email address and password
  • Your first and last name and birth date
  • Your mailing address
  • Your up-to-date contact info
Simply input your information and follow the online instructions; you’ll be set up in no time and ready to get started.

Classes and Testing Centers Near You

Prefer to start your journey to a GED® with in-person GED® courses and testing centers? In-person GED® classes offer a range of benefits that make them a valuable option for individuals pursuing their GED® credential. Here are some key advantages of attending in-person GED® classes:
  • Direct Interaction: One of the most significant advantages of in-person GED® classes is the opportunity for direct interaction with teachers and peers. In traditional learning environments, you can ask questions, engage in real-time discussions, and receive immediate feedback.
  • Structured Learning Environment: In-person GED® classes provide a structured and organized learning environment. With a designated schedule, you have a consistent routine that promotes discipline and focus.
  • Motivational Environment: Attending in-person GED® classes creates a motivational environment. The presence of instructors and classmates who share the same goal can inspire and encourage you throughout your GED® journey.
You can find GED® classes and testing centers using our locator and your GED.com. Narrow your search by city and state or zip code. Once you’ve found your preferred testing location or class, you can quickly access location and contact information.

Online Classes

Attending GED® classes online in North Carolina offers a range of advantages that make it an appealing option for those pursuing their GED® credential. Here are some key benefits of online GED® classes:
  • Flexibility: Online GED® classes provide unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and schedule. You have the freedom to choose when and where you want to learn, making it easier to balance your GED® preparation with other commitments such as work, family, or personal responsibilities.
  • Convenience: With online classes, you can access course materials and lectures from the comfort of your own home or any location with an internet connection. This eliminates the need for commuting to a physical location, saving you time, energy, and transportation costs.
  • Self-Paced Learning: Online GED® classes often offer self-paced learning options, allowing you to progress through the material at a speed that suits you best. You can spend more time on challenging subjects and move faster through ones you’re more familiar with, tailoring the learning experience to your individual needs.

GED® Tests Online in North Carolina

Did you know you can take the North Carolina GED® practice test and the official GED® test online? To take the official test online after your GED® class, you will need:
  • A quiet, private workspace
  • A dependable webcam, computer, and internet connection
  • An unexpired government-issued ID
  • A green GED Ready® Score
After you’ve scheduled your test, make sure you log in to your account at least 30 minutes prior to test time to verify your computer and identity..

Ready to Earn Your GED in North Carolina?

Take the first step to a brighter future by starting your journey toward earning your GED® in North Carolina today! Find local GED® classes or schedule your official GED® test now.