Changes Ahead for GED Test Next Year [AUDIO]

Big changes are coming to high school equivalency test nationwide next year.

For starters, the General Educational Development (GED) test will be totally computer-based and cost more to take, but there will be other brands of high school equivalency test offered at New Jersey's 33 test sites, according to State Education Department Spokesman Mike Yaple.

Yaple says test takers will still have to show proficiency in science, math, social studies, reading and writing but it will better reflect what students are learning today. He says the changes were made to GED and other high school equivalency test to align with the Core Common State Standards nationwide.

"Yeah, I think that has been one of the criticisms that people had over the years with some of the GED testing in the past, is that it really needs to reflect what is expected in order to hold a diploma from your state and so that's why you're seeing these changes," Yaple explained.

The American Council on Education and Pearson, the groups that administer the GED, say the tests were revamped to "assure colleges, university and prospective employers that adults who have passed the GED Test are prepared to compete and succeed in a global economy."

Details about the other testing options will be available in coming months, according to Yaple. He says the New Jersey Department of Education website will provide updates.