In May 2024, the Canadian paper-based GED high school equivalency exam was cancelled across Canada.
From then on, the Canadian-made CAEC (Canadian Adult Education Credential) exam has been used for high school equivalency testing in most Canadian jurisdictions.
The new CAEC is delivered on a computer (in most provinces), whereas the former, outdated Canadian GED exam was available on paper only.
Many Canadian Adult Learning Centres can help you prepare for the challenging CAEC exam, especially if learning with an instructor is what you prefer.
You can also prepare for the CAEC exam with a good, well-structured online program to attain passing scores on the five CAEC subtests.
Not every student will benefit from online learning, as it requires some self-discipline. However, students who can learn independently may progress faster with a high-quality online program, such as the CAEC course from Cansego.
What is the CAEC?
Like the GED, the CAEC exam measures an applicant’s knowledge level in comparison to that of graduating high school seniors.
There are five modular CAEC subtests (independent exams) that cover the academic fields of reading, writing, science, social studies, and math, and it is important to understand what questions are on the CAEC test.
The exam is for adult learners who are at least 18 years old and did not complete their Canadian high school curriculum.
Candidates who reach passing scores on the five CAEC subtests will receive their province’s high school equivalency diploma.
Holding a CAEC diploma makes adults eligible for better employment options and better salaries.
The credential also allows for apprenticeships and professional training courses, and qualifies for post-secondary education in the same way a conventional high school diploma does.
Is the GED diploma still valid?
Yes, the GED diploma will remain recognized, and if you have already passed portions of the former Canadian GED exam, don’t worry, as your scores are transferable to the CAEC exam until May 2027.
The former Canadian GED test was paper-based and did not cover anything typical of Canada.
So, it was decided to create a fully Canadian-made new exam that is in line with modern-day technical expectations and covers Canadian content.
The CAEC exam includes lots of questions related to Canadian values, traditions, perspectives, government, history, geography, economy, and cultures. The CAEC exam can be taken in English or French.
You can very well study for your CAEC exam with a good online program, but some students learn better under the supervision of a teacher. If you live in New Brunswick and want to learn all about New Brunswick prep facilities, <- check out this post.
Advantages of having a CAEC
There are so many reasons to earn your CAEC diploma! Successfully completing the five CAEC sub-exams will provide you with your Canadian high school equivalency diploma needed for:
- Getting a good or better job. Today, most positions require at least a grade-12 education level, and your CAEC diploma fulfills that requirement.
- Having a CAEC diploma will qualify you for better pay. You have shown dedication and perseverance by earning your diploma. Employers recognise that and will award you with a better salary.
- Enhanced computer skills. Because the CAEC exam is fully computer-based, you have demonstrated the ability to command basic computer and keyboarding skills. Today, that’s a prerequisite for most positions.
- Admission to post-secondary schools. Your CAEC diploma is recognised as the equivalent of a standard high school degree by practically all employers and institutions of higher education. So you can go to college or university!
- The Canadian Armed Forces have implemented the new Canadian CAEC programs in its High School Education Initiative to help enlistees advance their careers within the Canadian Armed Forces.
- Your CAEC also allows for skills training programs, and you can participate in professional training programs, often leading to better positions or a requirement for job advancement.
- Some professional sectors require you to attend an apprentice program, and your CAEC diploma qualifies you for that as well.
- Your self-esteem will get a boost! You have proven you can achieve what you want! Earning your CAEC is quite an achievement, and you can and should be proud of yourself!