Acquiring the GED – Kansas High School Diploma builds a bridge to the future and offers the opportunity for better employment, continued education, increased income, and increased self esteem.

What is the GED and GED exam?

GED stands for General Education Development.  Individuals preparing to take the GED exam study specific content and problem solving skills in the areas of reading, writing (grammar and essay), social studies, science, and mathematics.  The content of the GED exam is comparable to the content knowledge expectations of high school graduating seniors in the United States.

Who is eligible to take the GED exam?

Individuals who are not currently enrolled in and have not graduated from an accredited high school are eligible to take the GED exam.  The individual must be 18 years of age or present the Compulsory School Attendance Disclaimer form to verify they are no longer enrolled in school and must have successfully completed the GED official practice test (OPT).  The OPT will be given on Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 by appointment in the ABE room located in the basement of the Library at Colby Community College in the Rooks Room.

How much does it cost to take the GED?

The GED test battery is $85.00 and must be paid before taking the exam.  The OPT battery is $45.00; this fee is waived for Colby Community College Adult Education students.  Payment may be made by cash, check, money order, or agency voucher.

How do I sign up to take the GED exam?

To sign up for the GED exam, call the chief examiner at 785-460-5489 to verify dates and times that the exam is given.  Go to www.ged123.org to fill out required registration information.  Print off the Proof of Registration page and give it to the chief examiner or email it to him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it a week before the exam.  If you do not have access to a computer, be sure to inform the chief examiner when you call and you will be given assistance in this area.  A photo ID which includes name, address, date of birth, and signature are required.  Suitable ID’s include a Kansas Driver’s License, a photo ID card issued by Kansas Division of Motor Vehicles, a passport, or a military ID.

What about the diploma?

Individuals successfully completing the GED exam in Kansas receive a Kansas State High School Diploma issued by the Kansas Board of Regents.  The GED assessment is accepted as a valid means for awarding high school diplomas by all 50 of the United States.  It is widely accepted by employers, training programs and higher education institutions as a credible measure of ability and skills.

How do I get a copy of my transcript or diploma if I need another one?

If you need another transcript or diploma once you’ve received your original one, you will need to contact the Kansas Board of Regents at www.kansasregents.org/ged_introduction.  This will take you to a page of information.  Go to GED Forms, click on GED Request Form, and print.

How should I prepare for the GED exam?

Colby Community College offers GED preparation classes on campus as well as in Hays, Goodland, Norton, and Phillipsburg will also offer classes based on need.  Instruction and materials are provided by qualified instructors without charge.  Classes are small, offered at a variety of times, and assist students at all educational levels to prepare.  Check the Colby Community College Adult Education schedule for more information at www.colbycc.edu. Click on Future Students, then on adult and continuing ed, then on GED schedule to see when the tests are scheduled.

Steck Vaughn offers a free sample of questions like ones you might find on a GED test at http://steckvaughnadult.hmhco.com/en/gedpractice.htm.