If you want to earn the Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma (CSSD), you may do so by passing the Pennsylvania GED® examinations. The CSSD is the state’s high school equivalency credential for residents without a high school diploma. Adults and younger students can use it to improve their job opportunities and pursue a college education.
Here’s how you can take GED® classes and tests in Pennsylvania.
In Pennsylvania, the minimum age required to take the GED® Test is 18 years old. If a candidate is 16 or 17, they must have an approved age waiver from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Candidates must submit both of the following to PDE for approval:
Written request from either an employer, college admissions office, military recruiting office, or director of a state institution indicating a GED is required.
For those testing on the Online Exam:
Minimum age for testing Online in Pennsylvania 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.
Yes, in Pennsylvania you’re required to be a resident. You can prove your residency at the testing center with a valid driver’s license or other proof of residency. If you have more questions, please contact the state office at (717) 787-5532.
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.
You will pay for the test online with a debit or credit card when you schedule your test.
Don’t have a credit or debit card? Some students use American Express Bluebird. Register for a free Bluebird card online and add funds with cash at a Walmart location. Learn more about Bluebird.
In Pennsylvania, there is no waiting period for your first two retakes. 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.
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 Pennsylvania, there is a $10 test center fee for GED® test retakes.
Note: We have extended the limited-time offer of up to 2 discounted retakes for exams taken in test centers, as long as both retakes are completed by June 30, 2024.
For those testing on the Online Exam:
The Online Proctored Exam costs $36 for a retake in Pennsylvania. Discounted retakes are not offered on the Online Proctored Exam.
There may be additional requirements that you need to meet. We recommend contacting your state’s office at (717) 787-5532 to find out more about your credential.
In Pennsylvania, the best way to order your first and/or duplicate Diploma or Transcript is to go toDiplomaSender.com. Set up an account and place your document order. Documents can be mailed, emailed, or faxed. Call 855-313-5799 if you prefer to order by phone - Additional fees may apply. Additional questions? Contact: Support@DiplomaSender.com.
Yes, in Pennsylvania 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.
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.
Everyone who wants to earn their GED® credential in Pennsylvania must first create an accountat GED.com. The registration process only takes a few minutes and requires you to submit details, including the following:
Your mailing address
Contact information
Employment and education status
Documented disabilities
After inputting the requested information, the website will direct you to your dashboard. Here you can start searching for GED® classes or testing centers.
Where to Take GED® Classes
Enrolling in GED® classes isn't mandatory for taking the Pennsylvania GED® test. However, we recommend taking them so you can better prepare for the exams.
You have two options for taking GED® classes:
Go to Our Prep Centers
Through the dashboard, you can enroll in one of our test prep centers closest to your location here in Pennsylvania. This option is preferable if you learn better through in-person lessons. You can also meet other students for group study opportunities.
Enroll Online
We also have flexible online classes for students who can’t attend in-person classes due to scheduling conflicts. You may take classes using digital devices, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Recorded materials are available to catch up if you miss a class. Use the free study resources on your GED® account to help prepare for the exam.
Finding a Pennsylvania GED® Testing Center
Once you’re ready to take your GED® exam, schedule it through your dashboard. While scheduling, you must:
Choose a testing site (preferably at a convenient location).
Pick the day and time.
Select the test types you’ll take.
If you stated during the signup process that you have a disability, apply for accommodations before scheduling the test. Your chosen Pennsylvania GED® testing center will help provide the assistance you need, like braille tests or wheelchair access.
Online Examinations Are Also Available
You can take the exam online if you can’t reach a nearby GED® testing center. To take the test, you must:
Have a computer, webcam, and internet connection meeting the minimum requirements.
Score green on your subject’s GED Ready® practice exam within the last 60 days before your scheduled test date.
Have a valid government-issued ID.
Have a quiet, private workspace.
A proctor will monitor you throughout the online test.
Take the Step to Earn Your Pennsylvania GED® Credential
GED® exams are challenging, but you can prepare yourself thoroughly through the GED®prep classes and materials available online and offline.
Feel free to contact us anytime with questions or concerns regarding the tests, or schedule your exam now.
