Youth and family opportunities center is a nonprofit agency created to provide wide access to community resources for families In need and establish an educational program for youth who have not succeeded in traditional educational settings.
Our mission is to provide a comprehensive educational program that incorporates youth work internships, student and family counseling, and technology-based learning leading to the completion of a GED We value the richness of cultural diversity In our community and the unlimited potential of families and their children.


Inspirational Quote
"Start by doing what is necessary, then do what is possible and suddenly you are doing the impossible."
St. Francis of Assisi

All About the GED: California

If you're a California resident considering the GED, you're not alone! A GED certificate can mean a better job, higher pay, or a higher education for those who did not or could not complete high school. Read on to get the skinny on CA's GED requirements!

If you're a California resident considering the General Education Development (GED) exam, you're in good company! According to the California Department of Eduation (CDE), www.cde.ca.gov, nearly 50,000 Californians took the plunge in 2003 alone, and more than 65 percent of them were successful! It's no surprise the exam is so popular. Essentially an equivalent to a high school diploma, a GED certificate may mean more career opportunities or a higher education for those who did not or could not complete high school. Want to know more? Here's a crash course on the California GED exam!

What is it?!

As mentioned, the GED is meant to replace a high school diploma. While some debate its value in comparison to a traditional diploma, studies show those with GEDs typically earn more and stand a greater chance of going to college than those without anything at all. A single test consisting of 5 parts - Writing, Reading, Science, Math, and Social Studies - one can complete the exam in a single day. While it may sound incredible that one day of testing can replace a number of years of classroom instruction, know that the GED is not easy. Some statistics note that only 30 percent pass the first time around! The American Council on Education, www.acenet.org, provides more information and sample questions.

How is it scored and what if I don't pass?

According to the CDE, each portion of the test is graded on a scale from 200 to 800, which reflects a percentile ranking from 1 to 99. The more answers you get correct, the higher your score. You must earn at least 410 points on each section with an overall average score of at least 450 to pass. Should you fail, you can retake all or part of the exam.

Am I eligible?

You're eligible for the GED if you're at least 17 years of age, though within at least 60 days of your 18th birthday. You must also be within at least 60 days of your projected graduation date, had you continued with school. If you pass the exam while still 17, your certificate will be held until your 18th birthday. Those who are currently enrolled in school are not eligible for the exam.

Where do I sign up?!

You must visit an official testing facility to register and fill out all appropriate paperwork. The CDE, www.cde.ca.gov, maintains a list of all testing centers by region on their main site. Fees vary, but the average is typically $100. You will need to appear on test day with a valid ID and the appropriate materials. Calculators are permissible on half of the math portion, Bring scratch paper and extra pencils!

For more information about the GED, visit either the CDE or the ACE!*

 

 

*http://education-portal.com/articles/All_About_the_GED:_California.html