Test-Takers Rush To Complete GED Before Old Version Is Phased Out

TRENTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) - New Jerseyans are among those hurrying to finish the GED high school equivalency test before a new version is introduced in January.

As WCBS 880's Levon Putney reported, Hudson County Schools of Technology's GED testing center has seen a big influx of students over the past three months.

"We're seeing on registration night anywhere from 60 to 100 people," up from the usual 20, chief examiner Michael Symczak said.

He said they have 20 to 25 seats left for Monday's last registration, and added most sites statewide are already full for the rest of the year.

The mad rush is because the old $50 GED pencil-and-paper tests will be replaced by $100 to $150 computerized tests starting in 2014.

"It's going to be a little more challenging but it's going to have much more value to it," said Symczak.

The new GED tests will meet national standards more attractive to colleges and employers.

Those who've completed only some of the five-part test will have their scores wiped out and have to start over again when the new test rolls out.

"I don't want them to get discouraged," said Symczak. "It's the key to advancement and they're going to need that."

Nicole Chestang, executive vice president at GED Testing Service, said the rush was expected. In 2001, the year before the last upgrade, there was a 30 percent increase in test takers, most toward the end of the year, she said.

She advised people to register for the exam now, even if they don't take it until later in November or December.

Some critics have challenged the price increases and the mandate that test takers use a computer - issues that affect many people living in poverty.

This is the first upgrade since for-profit Pearson Vue Testing acquired a joint ownership interest in the GED Testing Service. For 70 years, GED Testing Service has been run by the nonprofit American Council on Education.

GED exam officials have said the changes will modernize the test and align it with new college and career-ready standards adopted in a majority of states. They say basic computer skills are needed in a modern workplace - even to apply for jobs at places like retail stores and fast-food chains. On a recent test given to adults worldwide of workplace skills including math, reading and problem-solving using technology, American adults scored below the international average.

The test also will allow people to receive their scores the same day, rather than having to wait a month or more.

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