How to Get a Copy of Your GED
Have you lost or misplaced your GED?
Misplacing or losing items, even those most important to us, is not as uncommon as you might think.
Recent studies suggest science may explain why we tend to forget key information, such as where we put crucial documents, where we left our cell phone, or why a special date slips our mind.
Although it can be frustrating, it happens to the best of us. After all, we're only human.
Luckily, if you can't put your finger on your GED, it's not the end of the world.
You can get a replacement document that can be used for college applications, when seeking employment, or to keep in your personal file for future use.
Read on to learn how to get a copy of your GED!
Your GED: One of the Most Important Documents You'll Ever Own
Your GED is proof that you have mastered skills that are crucial to your success. It is commonly accepted by most colleges and universities, as well as by most employers to verify your performance ability.
According to the American Council on Education, the GED has opened the door to better opportunities for over 18 million graduates since 1942. Last year alone, 800,000 people sat for their GED exam.
Taking your GED usually requires registration, testing at an approved facility, and often requires test takers to pay a fee. Many students spend hours studying and preparing to take this exam.
Once you acquire your GED certificate, you are eligible for a long list of advantages that would not be possible without it. It can impact your life in multiple ways and offer benefits for many years to come. It might be the thing that helps you get into college or land a job.
Most people only receive one copy via mail once they have completed the test. Due to a wide range of possibilities, hanging on to the original document for a lifetime may not be plausible.
If you're in need of a replacement GED certificate, don't worry.
Just follow the steps outlined below to have a replacement GED issued in no time.
How to Get a Copy of Your GED in 5 Easy Steps
A replacement GED certificate can be requested by the test-taker themselves or by another person who has gotten their consent.
There is no standardized process for accessing a copy of the GED. But, it's usually fairly simple to obtain if you know the steps to take.
1. Identify the State and Institution Where the Exam Was Taken
Each state has their own set of records for everyone who has obtained a General Education Diploma in that particular state. The individual states also typically have a protocol established for certificate-holders to request a copy of their GED.
The first thing you will need to know is where the test was taken. Once you identify the location of the exam, the rest of the steps will come rather easy.
2. Contact the Institution That Administered the Exam
Depending on who administered your GED test, they may keep your information on file and might be able to furnish your request themselves.
If they cannot, however, they are still likely to have the information you will need to get a copy of your certificate.
Call the GED testing department and ask for advice to obtain a new copy of your GED certificate. Explain that you took the test at their facility and if possible, you may want to have the date that you passed on hand when you call.
If they don't have access to the information that you need they can direct you to your state's website.
3. Refer to Your State's Department of Education Agency Website
If you are unable to get the information that you need, you can search online for the link on the Department of Education listing page.
Find your state agency's link and check their site to determine the steps necessary for requesting records.
4. Complete the Form Specified By Your State
Most of the states will require you to fill out a form to make an official request for your GED. Some may provide an online link, while others might require you to print the document to fill out and send via snail mail.
You will need to provide information regarding the identity of the test-taker. This may include the following:
- Full name and all past last names
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (some require only last four digits)
- Date of records request
- Signature of GED holder
- Email or mailing address where verification is to be sent
It's a good idea to collect all of the information beforehand so that you can easily fill in whatever info is required.
5. Submit Your Request Form to the Appropriate State Agency Address
Once you have completed the form, check over it to ensure that no section has been overlooked and it doesn't contain errors.
If you're sure that the form is prepared according to the instructions provided, then it's ready to submit. You may be able to submit the form online or your state might require that it be mailed to the address provided.
Follow the instructions to submit your form, either online or through the postal service.
Upon receipt, they will process your request and issue your GED within the specified time frame.
Some states offer turnaround times as short as 24 hours, while others might ask that you allow 4 to 6 weeks. This information can be found on your state agency's website or on the form itself.
Keep Your GED Protected
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