GED classes are interactive and use learning techniques suited to adult students; individualized instruction is available if needed. Subject matter consists of mathematics, social studies, language arts and science studies. According to Southwestern Community College in Sylva, North Carolina, prospective students can sign up for GED classes at any time and need not wait for the beginning of a semester.
GED preparation classes are free, but textbooks must be purchased by the student. As of 2009, there is a $7.50 fee to take the GED test.
North Carolina students wishing to obtain a GED may enroll in the program at age 16, but they are required to sign a release form if they are under age 18. Prospective students are also given an assessment to determine if they need to take additional basic skills classes before entering the GED program.
Students seeking a GED must complete a battery of tests in the areas of mathematics, reading, writing, science and social studies. Tests are not currently available online. Test takers receiving a total passing score of 2,250 with no single test score below 410 are awarded a diploma known as the High School Equivalency Certificate. The certificate is usually accepted when applying for employment or admission to a college or university.
The North Carolina GED is available in U.S. English Language, Canadian English Language, Spanish, French, audio, large-print and Braille versions.