GED's three-year time limit removed

The New Mexico Higher Education Department announced Thursday that the three-year time period adult learners have to pass all subject matter tests has been removed, making hundreds more eligible for their High School Equivalency (HSE) credential, according to a release by the state.

“As a result of the retroactive policy change, 75 New Mexicans who previously passed required GED exams beyond the three-year time frame will be awarded a secondary credential, with even higher numbers expected for students who passed HiSET tests,” the release states. “Adult education program administrators plan to reach out to these students to notify them.”

“Previously, students who failed to take or pass all required subject area tests within three years were required to retake each test,” the release states. Test fees ranging from $50-$80 per subject and test times of up to eight hours “can make it difficult for working New Mexicans to find time to study and schedule test sessions.”

“A primary goal of adult education in New Mexico is to break down barriers that stand in the way of hardworking adults who want to further their education,” stated Adult Education Director Amber Gallup Rodriguez of the New Mexico Higher Education Department in the release. “Whether the obstacles involve access to the internet and devices, transportation and childcare concerns, tight finances, or a lack of time, we are doing all we can to proactively and creatively address them.”

“Governor Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Higher Education Department are also investing $200,000 this year toward test vouchers to further support adult students,” as stated in the release. “The vouchers are available to any New Mexico resident to cover fees for the HiSET or GED. More than 800 vouchers were awarded last year. Interested students can complete an application for test vouchers on the agency’s website at hed.state.nm.us.”

“The state is also investing $160,000 for instructional materials at state-sponsored adult education programs, which provide free test preparation, skills instruction, ESL courses, and other educational services to adult learners statewide,” the release states. 

“To find an adult education provider and apply for test vouchers, visit hed.state.nm.us or contact the Adult Education Division directly at [email protected] or (505) 660-8824,” as stated on the release.