New Brunswick is one of several provinces and territories transitioning to a new Canadian Adult Education Credential from the General Education Development (GED) testing program.
Development of the new credential was led by Alberta’s Department of Education; however, New Brunswick has been an active participant on a steering committee that assisted in the process, according to a recent news release.
“Adult learning programs are essential for New Brunswickers in need of an education credential to access educational or employment opportunities,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Greg Turner in the news release.
“Learners cannot earn these credentials without a recognized test, and we appreciate the efforts of WorkingNB staff to ensure there was a viable option to replace the outgoing GED.”
In March of last year, officials said, the American-based company that owns GED decided to cancel its Canadian version as of May 3, 2024.
The Canadian Adult Education Credential is for adults who do not have a high school diploma and have not completed the GED program.
The province said it was developed to meet the needs of adult learners in Canada and reflects diverse cultures and perspectives.
The credential earned through GED testing since 2002 will still be recognized, and people who have passed some of the GED tests will be able to apply those results toward the new credential for three years, until May 2027.
The Canadian Adult Education Credential consists of five tests that assess a person’s skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies.
The tests provide opportunities for candidates to demonstrate skills in communication, information-processing, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
The tests are available in French and English.
Although the transition process will result in a short period when no testing will be available for adult learners, Turner said the impacts on participants will be minimal.
Testing for the new credential is expected to begin before the end of May.
