The General Education Development (GED®) Tests began in 1942 with the development of a battery of tests for U.S. Military personnel who had not completed their high school studies. The tests provided an opportunity to demonstrate that these persons had achieved learning outcomes usually associated with a high school diploma. Because of this program, many persons were able to qualify for jobs and pursue postsecondary education upon discharge from military service.

 

Today, the tests are used in all fifty states, in the U.S. territories, and in many Canadian provinces. Approximately 800,000 adults take the tests annually, with nearly two-thirds qualifying for a credential in accordance with the criteria established by their states or provinces. Over the years, the GED Tests have provided personal satisfaction as well as professional and academic opportunities for millions of adults who, for many reasons, were unable to complete their formal high school studies.

 

It should be clearly understood that the GED® Tests can in no way take the place of a regular high school education. The tests are not means to an education, but are designed to appraise the educational development of applicants who have not completed their formal high school education.

 

The GED® now serves Spanish-speaking and French-speaking test-takers as well as those who speak English. The five tests are offered in braille, in bold print, and on audiocassettes. Many adult education programs in Illinois provide instruction to assist individuals in acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the GED®.

 

A new series of GED® Tests were introduced nationally on January 1, 2002. The new tests will continue to measure the significant lasting outcomes of a four-year high school course of study and will incorporate the most current, widely used curriculum standards and standardized assessment practices.

 

In brief, the GED® Testing Program has offered millions of adults a second chance by enabling them to demonstrate that they have many of the skills they would have acquired had they been able to remain in high school.

Section 2-3.34 of The School Code of Illinois, as amended, and Section 3-15.12, as amended, authorized the Program for the Issuance of High School Equivalency Certificates. Illinois Law authorized the Illinois State Board of Education to make rules necessary to carry into efficient and uniform effect the provisions for the issuance of High School Equivalency Certificates in the State. The law requires the Regional Superintendent of Schools of each county/counties to administer the High School Equivalency Testing Program.

 

The American Council on Education also makes recommendations to the Illinois State Board of Education relative to the policies and procedures for the administration of the GED® Testing Program. Recognized Illinois high schools are not authorized to issue a GED® credential.