If you are ready to advance in your work or educational career, then your first step is to obtain a GED (General Educational Development) certificate if you have not earned your high school diploma. Here is a brief guide to the Maine GED program to help get you started on the road to a better life.
Maine GED Test Format
The GED program is administered and regulated by the Maine Adult Education. They use the standard testing format designed by the American Council on Education. There are a total of five tests on subjects that all high school students must learn to earn their high school diplomas:
- Reading
- Writing (2 parts)
- Social studies
- Science
- Math (2 parts)
The writing and math portions of the test both have two parts. The writing test consists of multiple-choice questions and an essay question. The math test tackles two different aspects of mathematics. You are allowed to use a calculator on the first part, but not the second. There are 240 questions in all and you have about 7.5 hours to complete the exam.
Passing the Maine GED Exam
The maximum score you can get on the GED test is 4,000. However, you only need to score 2,250 to pass. This is an average of 450 per test. The lowest score you can get on any one test is 410. Anything lower and you’ll receive a failing grade for that test. However, you can redo one or all of the tests. While the state does not impose a waiting period or limit on the number of times you can take the GED, the individual testing centers might. It is best to contact the one closest to you for information about their retesting rules.
Eligibility Requirements for the Maine GED
To qualify to take the Maine GED exam, you must be at least 18 years old. Seventeen year olds can take the GED if they have been out of school for at least one year or they have a state-defined immediate need. There are no residency requirements at this time.
Registering for the GED Test
You must go to the official GED testing site and submit an application to take the exam. You must bring photo identification at the time of registration and testing that has your name, address, date of birth, signature, and photograph as well as any paperwork regarding your eligibility. Maine does not charge a fee to take the GED exam or for retests. To find an official testing facility in your area, visit the Maine Department of Education website (www.maine.gov)
Preparing for the GED Exam
If you want to successfully pass the GED exam, it is critical that you study for it. There are several things that can help you prepare. The most popular option is to sign up for a GED prep course. These classes are offered at local community colleges and adult learning centers. This is a great way to refresh your memory of the topics that you will be tested on, especially if you have been out of school for several years.
For self-motivated and disciplined individuals or those who can’t fit a formal class into their schedules, you can purchase GED study guides and practices tests and study at your own pace. There are also a ton of online resources dedicated to help test takers successfully pass the Maine GED exam.