More than 170,000 Canadians earned their high
school equivalency certificates since 2002
WASHINGTON, May 3, 2024
/CNW/ -- The Canadian GED test officially ends on Friday, May 3 after decades of serving adult
learners pursuing a high school equivalency diploma, which has
opened doors to greater careers and academic opportunities. During
that time more than 170,000 Canadians have changed their lives with
greater educational and workforce opportunities by earning their
GED credential.
"We are so proud to have been a part of the accomplishments
these learners and the provincial education ministries, said CT
Turner, Vice President of GED Global Operations and Assessment
Services. "This pathway has been a powerful tool to enter in-demand
careers, training and universities and boosting the economic
prospects for Canadian GED grads and their families. This is the
very heart of the GED program."
As the Canadian version of the GED test sunsets, a new testing
program is set to launch. The Canadian Adult Education Credential
(CAEC) will be developed in Canada
and administered independently by most provinces. Learners who
started their GED exams, but haven't passed them all will not lose
momentum, as their GED scores can be combined with the CAEC for up
to three years.
There is deep appreciation and honor for the test
administrators, adult educators, program providers, and teachers
who have helped many adult learners along the way. These heroes
worked tirelessly to guide students toward their greater potential.
"I don't feel this is a sad breakup. Each community offering the
GED created opportunities for the learners who attend, ultimately
benefiting the overall economy," shared Laura Burris, executive director of the Central
Valley Adult Learning Association, New
Brunswick, in a letter.
While this specific chapter between GED Testing Service and
Canada closes, we continue to work
together. For example, hundreds of international GED grads from
around world continue to apply to Canadian universities.
We also believe there are other ways and opportunities to serve
in the future. We have new and innovative programs, such as the GED
to tech apprenticeship and green energy jobs; work with some of the
world's largest and most recognizable employers through the
GEDWorks program to upskill workers; pilots that utilize AI for
individualized coaching and tutoring. Soon these types of programs
could also benefit adult learners and employers in Canada.
"We take pride in being part of a broader community spanning
provinces, states, and countries striving to enhance literacy and
provide professional and employment growth opportunities to all,"
said Burris.
About GED Testing Service
The GED test has opened
doors to better jobs and college programs for more than 21 million
graduates since 1942. The GED test is accepted by virtually all
U.S. colleges and employers, and many universities around the
world. As the creator of the one official GED test, GED Testing
Service has a responsibility to ensure that the program continues
to be a reliable and valuable pathway to a better life for the
millions of adults without a high school diploma. GED Testing
Service is a joint venture between the American Council on
Education and Pearson.
SOURCE GED Testing Service