NASHVILLE, Tenn. -
Significant changes are planned for Tennessee's GED program, which helps thousands of adults without high school diplomas improve their marketability to potential employers.
Beginning in 2014, the GED test will be administered by computer rather than paper and pencil, be more difficult than the current test and come with a higher price tag.
"My instructor tells me it's best to get it done before it's on the computer and of course I can save a few bucks if I get it done before the price goes up," said Lizette Turner who is currently taking preparatory classes for the test.
Currently it costs an average of $65 for adults to take the exam; however that amount is expected to be a minimum of $120 in the future.
"If they get a GED they will increase their earning power," said Pamela Sessions, Vice-President of Programs for the YWCA of greater Nashville.
The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development reports there are more than 1.1 million adults in the state without diplomas.
Davidson County is home to nearly 100,000 adults without their high school diplomas.
On average, a GED seeker needs anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare for and complete the test.
In Davidson County, 1,160 GED diplomas were earned in 2011.
