General Education Development (GED)
The General Educational Development Test (GED) is a special series of tests to determine the educational development of those who have not completed high school. The GED is recognized as representing the equivalent of high school educational training necessary for employment. It also meets the diploma entrance requirements for community college. If the student passes the exam and leaves the Newport-Mesa Unified School District without completing graduation requirements, the student does not receive a diploma nor does s/he participate in the graduation ceremonies. To take the GED tests in California, an individual must be a California resident or a member of the armed forces assigned to this state and meet any one of the following criteria:
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The individual is 18 years of age or older, or within 60 days of his or her 18th birthday (regardless of school enrollment status).
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The individual is within 60 days of when s/he would have graduated from high school had s/he remained in high school and followed the usual course of study.
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The individual is 17 years of age, has been out of school for at least 60 days, and provides a letter of request for the test from the military, a post-secondary education institution, or prospective employer.
Persons who pass the GED test at age 17 will not receive the equivalency certificate until their 18th birthday. A letter of intent is issued which states that the certificate is being held pending the examinee’s 18th birthday. Special classes to prepare a student to take the GED are offered in the District. Contact Adult Education for more information.