New Brunswick is one of several provinces and territories transitioning to the newly released 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.
"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. "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, 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. 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.
More information about the Canadian Adult Education Credential is available online.
Adult learning programs are funded through WorkingNB and are provided to New Brunswickers at no cost. Anyone interested in these programs is encouraged to speak with an employment counsellor at the nearest WorkingNB office.
