Canada adult education update
CAEC
GED was replaced by CAEC in Canada
GED Canada With Confidence
If you searched for the GED, you're in the right place. As of May 2024, Canada uses the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) as its official high school equivalency assessment.
What Changed
CAEC replaced the GED across Canada as of May 3, 2024.
Who It's For
Adults who need proof of high school-level knowledge for work, training, or further education.
GED Transfer
Passed GED subjects count toward CAEC until May 2027.
Passing Score
55% on each of the 5 tests.
Why Canada replaced the GED
The GED was an American credential adapted for Canadian use. The CAEC was built from the ground up for Canadian adult learners, reflecting Canadian standards, values, and workforce expectations.
Made in Canada
Developed by provinces and territories to reflect Canadian curricula, culture, and the needs of diverse communities including Indigenous and francophone learners.
Modern and computer-based
CAEC tests are delivered on computers at official testing centres. The GED was paper-based. CAEC emphasizes critical thinking over rote curriculum knowledge.
Recognized by employers and schools
Passing all 5 CAEC tests earns you a provincial High School Equivalency Certificate, accepted by employers, colleges, and apprenticeship programs.
What the CAEC tests cover
The CAEC has 5 tests. You can take them individually across multiple sessions — you don't need to write all 5 in one sitting.
| Subject | Time | Format | Passing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 75 minutes | 50 questions | 55% |
| Writing | 75 minutes | 1 persuasive essay | 55% |
| Mathematics | 120 minutes | Part I: 12 questions (no calculator, 30 min) · Part II: 30 questions (calculator, 90 min) | 55% |
| Social Studies | 90 minutes | 40 questions | 55% |
| Science | 90 minutes | 35 questions | 55% |
Available in English and French. Total testing time is approximately 7.5 hours across all subjects.
What this means for you
Whether you were planning to take the GED or already started, here's what you need to know right now.
Where CAEC is available
Most provinces and territories have adopted the CAEC. A few have not yet transitioned.
Eligibility, testing fees, and registration vary by province. In Ontario, the CAEC costs $100 total ($20 per subject) and is administered by TVO ILC. Confirm details with your provincial adult education office before registering.
Prepare for the CAEC with StudyPug
StudyPug covers 4 of the 5 CAEC subjects — Mathematics, Reading Comprehension, Science Literacy, and Canadian Social Studies — with step-by-step video lessons and adaptive practice built by Canadian certified teachers.
Mathematics
Video lessons and practice for every math topic on the CAEC, from basic operations through algebra and geometry. Calculator and non-calculator sections covered.
Reading Comprehension
Build critical reading skills with passages and questions that mirror the CAEC Reading test format.
Science Literacy
Adaptive practice covering scientific reasoning, data interpretation, and content knowledge tested on the CAEC Science exam.
Canadian Social Studies
Practice questions that build the critical thinking and Canadian civics knowledge you need for the CAEC Social Studies test.
CAEC FAQ
Unsure how StudyPug works? Need help with setting up? Check our frequently asked questions or contact us for help.
Is the GED still available in Canada?
No. As of May 3, 2024, the GED is no longer offered in Canada. It has been replaced by the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC), which is now the official high school equivalency assessment across Canada. If you were planning to take the GED, you will need to take the CAEC instead.
Is my old GED still valid?
Yes. If you already completed and passed the GED, your credential remains valid and is still recognized by employers, colleges, and institutions across Canada. You do not need to retake anything.
I passed some GED subjects. Do those count?
Yes, in most cases. Passed GED subject scores can be transferred toward your CAEC until May 2027. Contact your provincial adult education office to confirm how your results apply and what steps to take next.
What does CAEC stand for?
CAEC stands for Canadian Adult Education Credential. It is a high school equivalency credential developed specifically for Canadian adult learners, reflecting Canadian standards, curricula, and workforce expectations. Passing all five subjects earns you a provincial High School Equivalency Certificate.
How much does the CAEC cost?
Test fees vary by province. In Ontario, the CAEC costs $100 total ($20 per subject), administered by TVO ILC. Other provinces typically charge $35–$50 per subject. Contact your provincial testing centre for exact pricing and registration details.
Can I take the tests one at a time?
Yes. The CAEC has five separate subject tests — Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies — and you can take them individually at your own pace. You only need to retake subjects you did not pass.
Does StudyPug cover all 5 CAEC subjects?
StudyPug currently covers four of the five CAEC subjects: Mathematics, Reading Comprehension, Science Literacy, and Canadian Social Studies. Written Communication prep is coming soon. All four covered subjects include video lessons, practice problems, and progress tracking.
Is the CAEC available in my province?
The CAEC is available in Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador, and the Northwest Territories. British Columbia, Quebec, Nunavut, and Yukon have not yet adopted the CAEC. Check with your provincial adult education office for the latest information.
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