Downtown Learning Center/GED offers students aged 16-21 the support and materials necessary to complete their General Educational Development Diploma (GED).

Contact Info & Location

FAQs About GED

What is the difference between a GED and a high school diploma?

Both the GED and high school diploma are useful for employment or higher education.  Some jobs, and some branches of the armed services, require a high school diploma.  Completion of the GED qualifies the student to enter any Oregon community college.  A high average score qualifies the student for Oregon’s four year colleges.  It is important for the student to check with a university/college or specific job to find out whether a GED is acceptable for that site.

What do I need to earn a GED and how long does it take?

To earn a GED certificate, a student must pass tests in five areas:  reading, writing, social studies, science, and mathematics.  Screening tests are given to determine the student’s skill levels.  For most students, with at least 10th grade skills, it takes about two months to complete preparation and testing.  Students are expected to attend five days a week.

Who is eligible to be in the Salem-Keizer Public Schools' GED program?

To be eligible for the Salem-Keizer GED program, a student must:

• be between the ages of 16-21.
• read at a 10th grade level or above.
• be at least a year behind his or her graduating class. 

Students not eligible to participate in Salem-Keizer Public Schools' GED program may still be eligible to earn their GED through Chemeketa Community College. Check Chemeketa's website for details. Please note: Salem-Keizer Public Schools is not affiliated with Chemeketa's GED program.

Is there a cost for the GED?

Yes. There is a fee of $50 for testing and materials.

Are there any special accommodations for students who have a learning disability of any other special circumstance?

Yes.  Students with any condition that qualifies them for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) may apply for special testing accommodations, which may include extra time, private room, breaks, etc.  The State GED department determines who is entitled to these accommodations.

Program Entry

How non-IEP students get into a GED program

• The student meets with his or her high school counselor
• The counselor determines whether the student meets the credit requirements
• If the credit requirement is met, the student goes to the Ike Box for the skill screening
• If the student meets the skill requirement, he or she makes an intake appointment
• Following the intake appointment, the student begins work on the GED

How IEP students get into a GED program

• The student contacts his or her IEP case manager
• The case manager contacts the Ike Box LRC teacher
• The student makes an appointment for screening in reading, writing and mathematics
• If the student meets the program requirements, an IEP meeting is held to transition the student to the GED program
• The student begins work on the GED