Millions who have started, but not finished, their GED test are at risk of having to start over.

September marks not only the beginning of fall, but also Georgia Adult Literacy Month and the start of a new program that could impact over a million GED applicants.

General Educational Development (or GED) tests are a group of five subject tests which, when passed, certify that the taker has American or Canadian high school-level academic skills. Since inception of the GED program, more than 18 million adults who were unable to finish high school have found a solution in getting their GED, which is accepted by virtually all U.S. colleges and employers.

In coordination with Georgia Adult Literacy Month, GED Testing Services announced a new initiative and program changes that could impact GED students who are currently in the process of receiving their certification. The new campaign, “Your Future is Calling,” is being launched to alert test-takers who need to finish the GED test that they need to do so by the end of 2013.

The current version of the test – the 2002 Series GED Test – will expire at the end of 2013, along with incomplete test scores. Which means, anyone who has started their GED program and has tests still to take will need to complete their current program by the end of 2013 or they will have to start all over under the new 2014 edition.

In an effort to help students complete their GED by the end of 2013, the program is offering many incentives, such as a free practice test and scholarships that cover part of the cost of a test.

The new 2014 GED test will be based on emerging national and state standards. It will offer dual performance levels where test-takers can earn the high school equivalency credential, as well as an additional endorsement that indicates career- and college-readiness. The test will be delivered solely on computer and offered only in official testing centers.

“We have resources available here in Haralson County for those learners who need to earn a GED,” said Betty Candler, executive director of Learning Always Means Progress, Inc., the Haralson County Certified Literate Community Program. “Students can take online preparation or in-class preparation on the Murphy Campus of West Georgia Technical College. Anyone who has finished parts of the test, but not the entire test battery should make every effort to finish the test before the 2013 expiration date. Scholarships are available for students who have a financial need.”

Interested students can call Betty Candler at 770-537-6059 or call the West Georgia Technical College GED Line at 1-855-500-4337.