Have Old GED Credits? You Have Until May 2027 to Use Them
How GED tests passed before the switch can still count toward your CAEC, for a limited time
· 7 min read
When Canada replaced the GED with the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) in May 2024, a lot of adult learners were left with a worry: "I already passed some of my GED tests. Did I just lose all that work?"
The good news is no, not necessarily. There is a transition window that lets you carry previously-passed GED tests over toward your CAEC. But that window closes in May 2027, so if this applies to you, now is the time to act.
The short version
- GED tests you passed before the GED transitioned to the CAEC can be recognized toward matching CAEC subjects.
- This recognition is available for up to three years, until May 2027.
- You must still pass at least one CAEC test to earn the credential using this route.
- It is handled through a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process.
How the GED-to-CAEC recognition works
The CAEC covers five subjects: Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. If you passed one or more GED tests in matching subject areas before the transition, you may be able to apply to have those results count toward your CAEC, instead of re-testing in every subject.
This is done through a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process. You submit a form to request that your previously-passed GED tests be recognized in the equivalent CAEC subjects.
There is one important condition: even if you use PLAR for several subjects, you must successfully complete at least one CAEC test in combination with your recognized GED tests to be eligible to earn the CAEC credential. In other words, the credential can't be granted on old GED results alone, you have to write at least one CAEC test.
Why the May 2027 deadline matters
The recognition window runs for three years from the transition, ending in May 2027. After that date, the option to carry forward old GED results is expected to close, which would mean writing all five CAEC subject tests from scratch.
If you have partial GED credits sitting unused, waiting could cost you the value of every test you already passed. Acting before the deadline protects that work.
What to do now
- Find your old GED records. Locate which subject tests you passed and when.
- Contact your provincial CAEC provider. Ask about the PLAR process and the exact form you need to submit for GED recognition in your province.
- Create your CAEC candidate account. Register on the CAEC platform and select your province.
- Plan for at least one CAEC test. Decide which remaining subject(s) you'll write, and start preparing.
Preparing for your remaining CAEC test
If you only need to write one or two subjects, focused practice goes a long way. Our subject bundles and full workbook let you target exactly the subjects you have left, with lessons, practice questions, and answer keys. Not sure where you stand? Try a free practice sample first.
Disclaimer
This article is a general overview of the GED-to-CAEC transition and prior learning recognition. The exact PLAR process, eligible subjects, forms, and deadlines vary by province and territory and may change. CAEC Ready is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government, ministry of education, or official CAEC testing provider. Confirm your eligibility and the current deadline with your official provincial education website or authorized testing provider before relying on GED recognition.