GED Preparation
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Don’t have a high school diploma?
Clatsop Community College can assist you in obtaining the equivalent to a high school diploma—the GED—which will enable you to pursue further education, improve your employment status, or fulfill a personal goal.
What is the GED?
The GED is a battery of five tests (Tests of General Educational Development) that when passed, serves as an equivalent to a high school diploma.
It is accepted by 98% of colleges and universities that require a high school diploma as well as 96% of companies whose jobs require a high school degree. In 2009, over 470,000 people earned a GED.
(ACE GED Testing Program Fact Sheet 2010)
The five tests that make up the GED:
| Language Arts Writing Part 1 | 50 questions | 75 minutes |
| Language Arts Writing Part 2 | Essay | 45 minutes |
| Social Studies | 50 questions | 70 minutes |
| Science | 50 questions | 80 minutes |
| Language Arts Reading | 40 questions | 65 minutes |
| Mathematics | 50 questions | 90 minutes |
Click here for more information from the GED Testing Service
To view videos about the GED Mathematics Test:
Click here to view the Calculator Video
Click here to view the Alternate Format Gridding Video
Who is eligible for the GED?
You must be at least 16 years old in order to take the GED tests. If you are under 18, you must provide “Option Papers” or a “Release from Compulsory Education” from your high school before attending classes or taking the GED Tests.
Where can I prepare for the GED Tests?
Clatsop Community College’s GED preparation classes are held at the main campus in Astoria, at the South County Center in Seaside, and at Clatskanie High School.
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The GED classroom in Astoria--Columbia Hall 114
When are classes held?
| Astoria Days | Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 9:00 am - 1:00 pm |
| Astoria Evenings | Mon, Wed 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm |
| Clatskanie | Mon, Wed 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm |
| Seaside | Wed, Thu 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm |
You do not need to attend all days or all hours.
Call 503-338-2347 for more information.
How long does it take to get a GED?
The length of time varies from individual to individual. It depends on the skills and knowledge you have when you start and your commitment to earning your GED. If you want your GED, we are here to help make it happen.
Will I need to purchase textbooks?
We provide the necessary books and materials for you to study and prepare for the GED Tests. All we ask is that you bring paper and pencils and a desire and commitment to completing your GED.
Am I too old to get my GED?
Never! We have had students in their 60’s and even 70’s earn their GED. There is no age limit on the desire to learn!
What are the classes like?
GED classes are a combination of small group discussions with as much individualized, one on one instruction as we can provide. We strive to make the learning environment as comfortable as possible.
Where can I take the GED Tests?
Clatsop Community College is an official GED Test Site. Tests are given in the Testing Center, Columbia Hall, Room 116. Tests must be scheduled in advance. The GED tests cannot be taken online.
Click here for more information about online testing
Call 503-338-2481 or 503-338-2347 to schedule tests.
What do I need to bring to the Testing Center?
You must bring the receipt that shows you have paid for the tests, current photo identification (state issued, not school), and additional paperwork from the high school if you are under 18.
Call 503-338-2481 if you have any question about acceptable identification.
Click here for more Testing Center information
What are the costs?
To take the GED preparation classes, there is a fee of $25 per term. This fee covers all the GED preparation classes for that term. (Price subject to change)
The current fee for the battery of GED Tests is $135. This fee does not have to be paid until just prior to testing. (Price subject to change)
Is financial assistance available for the GED tests?
There is a limited amount of assistance for students currently enrolled in the GED Program. Some agencies provide assistance in paying for the GED. If you are a client of an agency, check with them for possible assistance.
How do I get started?
Twice each term CCC offers an Orientation for its GED preparation classes. At this time an assessment of your reading, writing, and math skills is given and a recommendation is made as to whether you need classes to prepare for the tests or are ready for testing.
Call 503-338-2347 to schedule an Orientation.
Next GED Class Orientation: June 15, 2012
Do I need to take the Orientation and classes in order to test?
No. If you are 18, you may take the tests without going through the Orientation or classes.
Is there a graduation ceremony for GED completers?
Yes. Currently, we hold an informal GED Graduation in June of each year for the past year’s GED graduates. Family and friends are encouraged to attend to help celebrate your achievement.
Ready?
Call 503-338-2347 to get started!
If you have completed some or all of your GED tests and need an official transcript,
Click here if you DO know your GED Access code
Click here if you do NOT know your GED Access code (Oregon testing only)
(.pdf, 569 KB)*
*In order to view this document (.pdf), you must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader software installed on your computer.
It is the policy of Clatsop Community College that there will be no discrimination or harassment on the grounds of race, color, sex, marital status, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or disability in any educational programs, activities, or employment. Questions or complaints should be directed to the Affirmative Action/Title IX Officer in Library 108 at 503-338-2450; TDD 503-338-2468. The Section 504 Coordinator is located in the Student Services Center 503-338-2474. For ADA and other accommodations call: 503-338-2474 TDD 503-338-2468
