NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
New made-in-Canada high school equivalency for NWT residents

The new Canadian Adult Education Credential will be available in the Northwest Territories starting November 1, 2024.

Through the new Canadian Adult Education Credential, adults without a high school diploma can now earn their high school equivalency. It opens new doors for jobs, applying for post secondary education, or accessing other educational and training opportunities, including apprenticeships.

The Canadian Adult Education Credential consists of five tests to evaluate reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies skills. These tests allow adult learners to demonstrate their ability to communicate, process information, problem-solve, and think critically.

Testing must be completed in person at one of the examination centres across the NWT. These facilities change depending on availability, and ECE Regional Service Centres will work directly with the client and a representative at the location to find a place and time for the individual to complete the test.  Interested individuals should first confirm their eligibility by contacting the Regional Service centre closest to them.

The Government of the Northwest Territories provides the Canadian Adult Education Credential for free to adult learners in the NWT who do not have a high school diploma or the former General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

More information about the Canadian Adult Education Credential is available online.

Quote

"Education is essential for success in every aspect of life. The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to providing all residents with programs and services that help empower them for new career and educational opportunities. The recently introduced Canadian Adult Education Credential is designed specifically for Canadians. It acknowledges the diverse cultures and perspectives within the country while empowering adults to unlock their potential."

- Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

Related Links

• Canadian Adult Education Credential (Alberta)
• Canadian Adult Education Credential (Government of the Northwest Territories)
• Canada and NWT discontinuing GED, introducing new equivalency exam

Quick Facts

• The GED credentials are still recognized. Individuals who have completed some but not all the five GED tests will have until May 2027 to apply those completed tests toward their Canadian Adult Education Credential.
• The Canadian Adult Education Credential is a high school equivalency; however, it only meets some of the prerequisites for post-secondary education programs. Individuals must research the post-secondary schools and programs they wish to apply for and ensure they have the necessary prerequisites and grades for admission.
• To be eligible for the Canadian Adult Education Credential tests you must be 18 years old or over, out of high school for a year, not have a grade 12 or GED certificate, and have lived in the NWT for six months.
• If individuals require more than one attempt to achieve the Canadian Adult Education Credential, they may take the test up to a total of three times in a year. If they require a further test, they are able to reapply in the new year.
• Depending on the location, paper and computer-based options are available in English and French. When registering, ask what options are available.
• The Canadian Adult Education Credential was developed in collaboration with Canadian provinces and territories.