Frequently Asked Questions
 











































Pipestone GED/ABE FAQS Sheet
Since 2014, Community Education in Pipestone no longer offers GED instruction or testing.  All “instruction” is either done online or through Minnesota West, Worthington campus.  Testing must be done at a testing center.  For more information on this, you may contact Bridgette Smith at 507-512-0449 or by email at bnsmith@hotmail.com.  The Minnesota West Pipestone campus does offer Adult Basic Education and ESL classes on Thursday evenings through the Southwest ABE consortium.  More information can be found at http://www.southwestabe.org/worthington-clrl or you can call Bridgette Smith at the above number. 
 
You may find the answers to other frequently asked questions on the GED below.


How old do I need to be to take the test (no exceptions)?
In Minnesota, the minimum age required to take the GED test is 19 years old.  If you are underage, in Minnesota you need to meet one of the conditions under an application that would waive the minimum age requirement if at least 17 and out of school.  To see the full list of conditions and download the Age Waiver Form, please go to the Minnesota Department of Education web site and search for GED Age Waiver. (www.education.state.mn.us)

Do I need to take a class or receive instruction before I can take the test?
No, Minnesota doesn’t require you to prepare for the GED test in an adult education classroom.  However, studying in a classroom setting is a good opportunity to get up to speed on the topics and areas you’ll find on the GED test.

Where can I find an adult education center?
In Pipestone, you may contact Bridgette Smith at 507-512-0449 or by email at bnmsmith@hotmail.com.  Bridgette would be happy to sit down and help you plan your future.  Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Worthington Campus also offers preparatory classes.  You can call them at 507-372-3407.

Where can I take the GED test?
The closest testing centers to Pipestone are in Marshall and Worthington.
Marshall Public Schools
607 West Main
Marshall, MN 56258
507-537-7046
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
1450 Collegeway
Worthington, MN 56187
507-372-3407


Do I have to take the practice test before testing?
In Minnesota, you are not required to take the official practice test before scheduling your test.

Do I need to prove I’m a resident of Minnesota to take the test?
In Minnesota, there is no residency requirement.  Since there is none, you would be allowed to take the GED in another state as well if they do not have a residency requirement.

If you have additional questions regarding the state’s testing program, please contact the state at (651) 582-8594 or (651) 582-8446.


How much does the GED test cost?
There are 4 modules on the Minnesota state GED test.  Each module costs $30.

Can I take all of the parts at once or do I need to setup different appointment times? 
Yes, in Minnesota you can take all test parts in the same day if you find a testing center with hours that accommodate it.  Once you start testing there is no time limit to finish the test in Minnesota.

What score do I need to pass the test? 
You need a score of 145 on EACH module and 580 on the entire test battery (all four parts combined)
  • Below Passing: 100-144
  • GED Passing Score: 145-164
  • GED College Ready: 165-174
  • GED College Ready +Credit: 175-200


If I don’t pass, how long do I have to wait before taking the test again?
In Minnesota, there is no waiting period if you do not pass a subject area test the first time (this may vary based on testing center).  After taking a test subject 3 times, you’ll have to wait 60 days before retesting.  There’s no time limit to how many times you can test in a year.  Retake rules are enforced for students retesting in different languages.  For example, if you take an English test three times, then move to a Spanish test, the GED Testing Service 60-day wait period in enforced.  If a state has additional retesting requirements, these requirements will also be enforced.   Please call Minnesota’s state office at (651)-582-8594 or (651) 582-8446 with additional Questions.

How much does it cost to retake the test? Can I retake the test for free?
GED Testing Service offers a discounted retake program for all GED test-takers.  According to the program’s policy, you are eligible for:
  • Two discounted retakes for each subject area taken
  • GED Testing Service fees are waived every retake ($10 per subject area test)
  • States and testing centers can choose to waive their fees
  • You must schedule retakes one at a time for the discount to apply.
  • Discounted retakes cannot be combined with any other discounts
  • Retakes must occur within 12 calendar months of your initial attempt
  • After your two discounted retakes, you will need to wait at least 60 days, pay the full retake price and then you will receive two more discounted retakes


Do I have to finish taking all 4 tests before retaking a subject that I failed?
In Minnesota, you’re not required to finish the entire test before re-testing on any subjects.

I have taken and passed my GED and need a copy of my diploma?
Only one duplicate copy of your State of Minnesota GED Diploma will be issued, EVER.  There is no charge to obtain one additional copy of your State of Minnesota GED Diploma.  To request a transcript, complete the Record Request Form and fax it to GED office at (651)-582-8458.  You can scan and send it as an email attachment to alice.smith@state.mn.us.  Download the records request form and instructions at www.education.state.mn.us and search GED records request form.

WITH ANY OTHER QUESTIONS REGARDING YOU DIPLOMA OR RECORDS, PLEASE CONTACT THE STATE AT (651)582-8594 OR (651) 582-8446