Wisconsin

FAQs for Earning a GED in Wisconsin

Top Policies

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

You must be 18.5 years old to test in Wisconsin.

In Wisconsin, you can be 17 and take the GED® test if you have a s.118.15 contract from your local high school, a juvenile correctional facility, or the Challenge Academy.

Learn more about this at your state’s website.

 

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.

Yes, in Wisconsin you’re required to be a resident for 10 days or more. You can prove your residency at the testing center with a valid driver’s license or other proof of residency.

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.

Yes, in Wisconsin you are required to pass a 100 question civics test. To learn more about that requirement, please check with your test center or find additional information here.

No, Wisconsin doesn’t require you to prepare for the GED® test in an adult education classroom. However, prior to testing, you are required to complete a counseling session or sessions provided by a high school, TCS district, community-based organization, college, university, psychologist licensed by the department or the department of safety and professional services, or a school counselor licensed by the department. The sessions shall include all of the following:

(a) Assessment of the person's reading level and career interests and aptitudes.

(b) Discussion of the options available to the individual regarding completion of high school, the high school equivalency diploma, and the certificate of general educational development, and the requirements, expectations, benefits and limitations of each option.

(c) Development of a plan for completion of one of the options discussed, and subsequent activities necessary to work toward an identified goal, career or occupation.

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: Wisconsin charges $39.75 per subject for the GED® test at a Test Center

 

 

What is my cost if I test Online?

  • Wisconsin charges $39.75 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 Wisconsin, you’re required to wait 10 days before taking the test again after failing 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: 

  • 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 Wisconsin, 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 $39.75 for a retake in Wisconsin. Discounted retakes are not offered on the Online Proctored Exam. 

Transcripts & Diploma

There may be additional requirements that you need to meet. We recommend contacting your state’s office.

You can request a copy of your Wisconsin transcript or diploma here.

In Wisconsin the credential is called the Certificate of GED® or High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED).

Other

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center:

  • Yes, in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin, you can take the GED® Test in English or Spanish and you can combine the two 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.

Sherry Holly
GED Administrator
Department of Public Instruction
125 S. Webster Street
P.O. Box 7841
Madison, WI 53707-7841
Phone: (608) 267-1062
Fax: (608) 267-9275

How to Get a GED® in Wisconsin

Earning your GED® in Wisconsin is a significant accomplishment that can provide many opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you want to enhance your skills and knowledge, further your education, or improve your career prospects, obtaining a GED® can be a valuable step toward achieving your goals. Explore your learning options and review the advantages of earning your GED® online in Wisconsin versus taking in-person classes. With a comprehensive understanding of all available learning options, you can embark on your educational journey feeling equipped for the steps ahead.

Creating Your Online Account

If you don’t have a GED.com account yet, creating one is easy and free. The process will only take a few minutes to complete, and you can begin exploring the online resources immediately. Be prepared to provide personal information, such as:
  • Your email address and password for your account
  • Your full name
  • Your date of birth
  • Your contact information
  • Your mailing address

Classes and Testing Centers Near You

For those who thrive in a physical classroom setting, in-person GED® classes offer a range of benefits that can enhance the learning process and progress toward earning a GED® in Wisconsin. Here are some of the key benefits of taking GED® classes in person:
  • Direct Interaction: In-person courses provide the opportunity for direct interaction, real-time discussions, and immediate feedback with instructors and classmates.
  • Structured Learning Environment: In-person classes offer a structured learning environment with a designated schedule and consistent routine.
  • Motivational Environment: Attending in-person courses may provide a more motivational environment. Classmates who share the same goals can inspire and encourage each other, offer positive reinforcement, and work together to prepare for the exam.
We make it easy to find classes in your area. To see testing centers and in-person courses near you, enter your ZIP code or city and state. You can view location and contact details to enroll in classes. Or, you can use your GED.com to schedule the GED® test at a testing center.

Online Classes

In today’s digital era, online classes have emerged as a flexible and accessible option for those working toward earning a GED. Virtual learning environments let you tailor your education to your schedule, making them especially popular among people who value flexibility and convenience. Taking GED® classes online in Wisconsin will provide easy access to coursework, online resources, Wisconsin GED® practice tests, and other tools to help you succeed. Some of the most significant advantages of taking online classes include:
  • Greater Flexibility: Online GED® classes offer unparalleled flexibility and allow you to create your own study schedule, balancing your GED® preparation with other commitments.
  • Self-Paced Learning: Since online classes offer a self-paced learning environment, you can progress through coursework at the speed that suits you best, spending more time on particularly challenging topics.
  • Unmatched Convenience: Online classes eliminate geographical barriers and commutes. You can access coursework and resources from the comfort of your home or any location with reliable internet access.
You can easily sign up for GED® online classes in Wisconsin through your free GED.com account.

GED® Tests Online in Wisconsin

Did you know you can complete your GED® test online in Wisconsin? After completing an online class and earning a “green” or passing score on the Wisconsin GED® practice test, you can schedule your official GED® test online. To schedule the test, you will need:
  • A valid government-issued ID
  • A “green” score on the GED Ready® practice test
  • Access to a private workspace with a reliable internet connection and a computer with a webcam
Once you’ve scheduled your test, you must log into your GED.com account at least 30 minutes before test time to verify your workspace, computer, and ID. Click the “launch” button on the appointment card on your account homepage and follow the instructions for verification.

Ready to Earn Your GED® in Wisconsin?

When you’re ready to work toward your personal and professional goals and earn your GED® in Wisconsin, start with GED.com. You can explore GED® classes in Wisconsin or find a testing center near you.