A Quick Guide to Free or Affordable GED Prep
By Michael Ormsby
One of the challenges of getting a GED is paying for classes, study materials or the test. And many students can’t afford the cost of childcare or transportation to attend classes. Or, students simply can’t go to classes on a regular basis because of family and job responsibilities.
There are solutions. Though resources for adult learners vary, no-cost or low-cost classes and study materials for self-guided programs are readily available in most communities. There’s also help available online for GED students working on their General Education Development credential.
Here’s a quick guide to help you find resources and support — it’s easier to get started and stay focused on your education if you have the learning materials, student or family support you need.
1. The GED Academy offers a free, more detailed Resource Guide that includes additional contacts, resources and contact information to help adult learners access free and low-cost learning materials and community support. Request a Guide to Resources.
2. Your Public Library should have many of the study guides and GED lesson plans available for loan, and may also have videos and CD ROM GED testing study courses as well. In some communities, the library even sponsors free GED classes and adult education programs. Some libraries may even offer childcare and storytelling classes for children while parents attend classes. Some libraries offer online resources. Visit libraries on the web through Web Junction.
3. Most Community Colleges offer free or affordable GED courses or classes in basic skills, which will apply to a GED study program. The cost of these GED courses will vary from area to area, but generally they’re either free, or not expensive. If classes are fee-based, check with the community college Financial Aid Office and Student Support offices. You may be eligible for free classes and support services. Online College Directory
4. In many communities, even childcare costs and transportation are available for GED students. Talk to local GED instructors. They’re probably very familiar with local resources. Also, check with the community college Student Support Services.
5. Community-based nonprofits, Volunteer Centers, Family Support Agencies or Family Resource Centers are excellent sources for GED students. Contact local nonprofit agencies and volunteer centers. Ask about classes, materials and other needs related to your educational goal such as childcare, transportation or adult education classes or grants. Many of these agencies and centers also provide student tutoring and mentoring services. Learn about your local volunteer center through a member directory at The Points of Light Foundation.
6. Your local Public School District or University may have continuing education courses or adult education courses. There’s often grant money available to school districts and higher education providers that sponsor programs and classes for adult learners. Give them a call to see if they have the material or services you require for the GED test. You’ll probably want to check with the Central Office of the public school district, the nearest High School and with the Adult Education Office or Career Services office at the university.
7. Don’t forget about the local branch of your State Unemployment Office and local Department of Social Services or Family Services. Both of these agencies may have funds or resources available through programs related to job training, workforce development, job readiness or a DSS family support or welfare-to-work program.
8. If you’re employed, your workplace is an excellent resource for adult education. Your employer may already sponsor a program, or be willing to sponsor a program or costs since your goal is a good one. Check with your employer or supervisor directly, along with the Workforce Development, Personnel or Human Resources officer or department. You may find you need to ask a variety of people in the workplace to find the answer you need. If your workplace doesn’t sponsor a program, ask for one. Essential Education / The GED Academy provides free guides to GED students, adult learners and their employers or supporters to get GED programs and adult education going in the workplace. Request a Smart at Work Guide from The GED Academy.
9. Your local PBS television station broadcasts GED courses that you can take. PBS also offers some online courses for basic skills required for the GED test. They’re free. Check local television listings.
10. The GED Academy was created to provide free support and low-cost help for GED Test candidates. Lots of free information, test advice and study guides are available, along with financial aid for an online GED program.
11. You may also want to check with the American Council on Education, GED Testing Service. This organization provides free and official information about testing, official test sites, GED scores and transcripts. The website is www.gedtest.org. Or, your official state test site and administrator may have information about resources or support available to you. Here is a complete listing of test sites and contacts.
(c) 2006 Essential Education Corporation / www.passGED.com
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