What Is the Official GED Equivalent in Ontario?
There have been significant changes regarding high school equivalency testing in Ontario. The GED (General Educational Development) program is no longer available, and potential candidates are wondering: what’s next? Come with us as we explore the status of the GED in Ontario, its implications, and the Canadian GED equivalent designed for those who have not completed traditional high school.
What is the GED?
The GED (General Educational Development) is a series of tests taken to earn the equivalent of a high school diploma. This is done without actually needing to go through four years’ worth of education. Its purpose is to acknowledge those who have not completed high school but have the academic skills to be considered high school educated. Many higher education, employment, and career advancement opportunities require a high school diploma, and the GED acts as a pathway for those who did not complete high school.
The GED tests assess a candidate’s proficiency in five basic subject areas: reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Generally, individuals are required to be at least 19 years old in order to take the test.
Is there a GED test in Ontario?
No, as of January 31, 2024, Canadian candidates can no longer register for GED testing. The test was originally conducted by Pearson Vue, both in Canada and the United States, before the decision was made to no longer provide GED testing services in Canada. Pearson cited outdated technology as the reason they were no longer able to host GED testing in Canada.
Is my GED still valid?
Yes. If you took the GED before and completed all five subject areas, your credentials are still valid in Canada. You will not need to take a new test.
What’s next for GED testing?
With GED testing no longer available in Canada, what’s next? Luckily, this does not mean that candidates will need to take four years of high school education. Shortly after the dissolution of the GED in Canada was announced, a Canadian alternative underwent development to replace it. This alternative is called CAEC (The Canadian Adult Education Credential) and will act as the same credential as the GED originally did, eliminating the need for an official high school diploma.
Introducing The Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC)
The Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) is a high school equivalency assessment for those who do not have a high school diploma. It is available online in English and French and, just like the GED, assesses writing, reading, mathematics, science, and social studies proficiencies.
How does the CAEC work?
Like the GED, the CAEC will test you on the five key subject areas. In order to pass, you need a score of 55% or higher on each of the five tests. Testing will take place online at a registered testing facility. Once completed, successful candidates will receive an Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate.
Former GED candidates who took some but not all of the GED tests will still be able to use those tests to receive the Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate. For example, if you completed the writing and reading portions of the GED test, you will not need to take those portions of the CAEC test. The CAEC will count your GED credits toward receiving your Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate. These remaining GED credits will remain valid until May 2027.
Requirements to take the CAEC
- Must not have an Ontario high school diploma.
- Must be a resident of Ontario for a minimum of six months.
- Must not be currently registered with an Ontario public school, private school, or Catholic school.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Must not have attended any high school in at least a year.
- Eighteen-year-old candidates must provide a ‘date of leaving’ letter from the high school they previously attended. Homeschooled students must provide proof of homeschool education.
How much does it cost to take the CAEC?
To register for all five CAEC tests, it will cost $100 CAD. Keep in mind that there may be additional fees associated with registering, which will add to the $100 total.
How long does the CAEC take?
All five CAEC tests will take an estimated seven and a half hours to complete. Reading and writing both take 75 minutes to complete. Science and social studies both take 90 minutes to complete. Mathematics, which is the longest, is a two-part test that takes 120 minutes total to complete.
Pathways is a ministry-inspected full-service training facility for students across Ontario. We adhere to all provincial standards, and the credentials you receive from us are all validated. Complete any of the 160 Ontario high school courses with our online course selection.
Earn High School Credits Online With Pathways
While the GED testing program has been discontinued in Canada, the introduction of the CAEC provides a viable alternative for individuals seeking high school equivalency. This new credential ensures that those who did not complete traditional high school can still pursue further education and employment opportunities. The CAEC stands to be an essential resource for adult learners in Ontario, helping them achieve their personal and professional goals.