CAF High School Education Initiative
In April 2023, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) launched the High School Education Initiative (HSEI).
The initiative emphasizes the crucial role of achieving a high school or equivalent diploma within the initial five years of CAF service.
The High School Education Initiative (HSEI) outlines the reimbursement process, regulations, and policies for educational programs and upgrading. The CAF HSEI also lists all available adult education options across many Canadian provinces and territories.
CAF and Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC)
Previously, the GED (General Education Development) exam was offered in most Canadian jurisdictions for high school equivalency testing.
In May 2024, however, the Canadian GED program was replaced with the Canadian-made Adult Education Credential (CAEC).
The Canadian edition of the GED exam had not been updated for a long time and was offered in a paper-based format only.
Additionally, the Canadian GED exam did not cover any Canada-specific content. There was no coverage of Canadian History, Geography, Economics, Values, Traditions, Diversity, and other relevant subjects.
So, it was decided to design a new Canadian-made, Pan-Canada high school equivalency assessment that reflects Canada-specific aspects and is in line with contemporary technical possibilities and requirements.
Within the Canadian Armed Forces’ High School Education Initiative (HSEI), applicants have the opportunity to earn a secondary education credential, qualify for CAF positions, and build a rewarding career.
What is the CAEC exam?
The CAEC assessment is a Canadian-made, high-quality examination available in French and English, offering many benefits for those who earn their CAEC.
Upon successful completion of the assessment’s five modular sub-exams, candidates will receive an education credential equivalent to a standard Canadian high school degree.
The five CAEC’s independent subtests measure a candidate’s proficiency in Language Reading, Language Writing, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics.
The exam is tailored to meet the requirements and needs of Canadian adult learners, reflecting Canada’s perspectives and diverse cultures more effectively than the earlier Canadian GED test.
Who is the CAEC for?
The CAEC is Canada’s new high school equivalency exam for adult learners who didn’t complete their regular high school curriculum but need a secondary education credential for employment, to access higher education, attend professional training courses, internships, or a career in the Canadian Armed Forces. These are just a few examples of the advantages of having a CAEC!
CAEC candidates who achieve passing scores on the five sub-exams will receive their Canadian High School Equivalency Certificate in the same way as with the former GED exam.
Who is eligible?
The CAF High School Education Initiative is an excellent option for Canadian Armed Forces Regular Force Members and Reserve Force Members. Qualifying members can complete their high school or CAEC diploma during active duty hours (if operations allow them to do so).
For many jobs and positions in the Canadian Armed Forces, holding a high school, GED, or CAEC diploma is a prerequisite. Having a secondary education credential will provide applicants with more opportunities in their military career, and it will also make a transition to any civilian employment a lot easier.
To help candidates complete their high school or CAEC diploma, the CAF, in collaboration with local school districts and schools in the candidates’ jurisdiction, provides opportunities for creating personalized learning plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What exactly is the CAEC?
The CAEC, a top-notch Canadian-made secondary education credential, has replaced the GED diploma across most of Canada. It is recognized by government agencies, post-secondary institutions, and employers as a trustworthy indicator of an adult learner’s educational achievement. - Who is this CAEC for?
The new CAEC is for adult learners who didn’t finish high school. It offers them the opportunity to earn a secondary education credential that qualifies them for employment, job advancement, or college. - Where is Canada’s new CAEC Test available?
The new CAEC exam is offered in most Canadian provinces and territories. The assessment is NOT available in British Columbia, Quebec, Nunavut, and Yukon. - What are the CAEC subtests?
The CAEC is available in French and English. The assessment comprises five modular, independent sub-exams: Language Reading, Language Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. You can take the exams one at a time if you want. The CAEC reflects diverse Canadian cultures and perspectives. - Will the GED diploma still be recognized?
Yes, the GED diploma will continue to be valid across Canada and internationally. Employers, academic institutions, and government organizations will recognize both the GED and CAEC diplomas. - What if I have completed parts of the former Canadian GED?
If you have achieved passing scores on parts of the former Canadian GED exam, you can transfer your results towards your CAEC exam until May 2027. - If you want to learn more about the CAEC and how to prepare best, check out this page: How To Prepare For The CAEC Test.