FAQs

The Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) is Canada's high-school equivalency exam (replaced GED). It tests five subjects (Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies) on computer. Passing all five earns a provincial equivalency diploma.

Next: Try a free CAEC quiz to see where to start.

Download the CAEC Ready app for sample questions.

You must be an adult (18+) without a high-school diploma or GED. In Ontario, you need Ontario residency (6+ months) and a "leaving school" letter if you're 18. In Alberta, you must be 18+ and out of school for at least 10 months. Note: Manitoba/Saskatchewan have similar rules.

Contact your adult learning office to confirm eligibility, and start studying with our app.

Ontario: Register through TVO's ILC portal (you'll create an account on the CAEC Testing Service site). Alberta: Use the CAEC digital platform (caec.vretta.com) to create a profile and schedule tests. You'll pick a date at an official centre.

Next: Gather required IDs and upload them during registration.

Use our email guide "How to Register for CAEC" for step-by-step help.

Tests are in-person at approved centres. Ontario uses TVO/Independent Learning Centre branches; Alberta has community learning centres (see Alberta site for list). (British Columbia does not use CAEC; Québec uses a different equivalency test.)

Find your nearest CAEC centre online or ask us, then use the app's practice test mode to prepare.

There are 5 tests, usually on different days, total ~7.5 hours. Time per section: Reading – 50 Q in 75 min; Writing – 1 essay in 75 min; Math – Part I (12 Q, no calculator, 30 min) & Part II (30 Q, calculator, 90 min); Science – 35 Q, 90 min; Social Studies – 40 Q, 90 min.

Try one section at a time in CAEC Ready to build stamina.

For Math: A basic calculator is allowed in Part II only. No calculators in Part I. For Science and Social Studies, calculators are allowed too. No personal notes or books are allowed – you only get scratch paper/pencils.

Practice mental math for Part I, and use CAEC Ready's in-app calculator to simulate test conditions.

You need 55% or higher on each test. If you get 55–79% you "meet standard," 80+% "exceeds standard." Below 55% is "not passing."

After your test, check your online results. If you didn't pass, use CAEC Ready's targeted drills on the topics you missed before retaking.

You can retake any failed section. In Ontario, retakes are allowed but spaced at least one month apart (up to 3 per year). Alberta follows similar rules. You cannot retake a section you already passed or earned credit in.

Identify weak areas from your score report, then do focused practice in the app before scheduling a retake.

Study consistently and focus on CAEC-style questions. Use short daily practice (20–30 min) covering reading comprehension, math word problems, writing structure, etc. Create a study plan (e.g. a 4-week or 8-week schedule).

Get our free study plan by email via contact, and practice every topic in CAEC Ready.

Yes. For example, United for Literacy partners in Ontario offer free prep programs. Alberta colleges may offer upgrading classes. Check with local adult learning centres or literacy groups.

Use CAEC Ready to practice between classes, and email us if you need referrals to free tutoring.

Bring valid ID (government photo ID with current address). Ontario requires two pieces (one primary ID); Alberta centres will also ask for photo ID. You'll use provided answer sheets on a computer.

Print the "Test Day Checklist" from our site. Then open CAEC Ready to do a quick practice round to feel test-ready.

You may request extra time or support if you have a documented need. All test centres have in-built tools: screen highlighter, zoom, line reader. For formal accommodations (scribe, additional breaks, etc.), apply through your province's adult ed department in advance.

Submit any accommodation forms now so you're set. Then practice in the app using your assistive preferences (e.g. larger text). See our CAEC Test Accommodations guide for the full process.

Multiple-choice tests (Reading, Math, Science, Social) are scored instantly and your score is available in days. The Writing test is graded by hand and can take up to 20 business days.

Check the CAEC portal a week after testing; if writing results are delayed past 20 days, contact the testing office. Meanwhile, review your weakest topics in CAEC Ready.

In Ontario: There is a $100 fee to register for all five tests. In Alberta: Fees vary by testing centre; they are paid on the CAEC portal when booking. In both provinces you may qualify for financial aid or fee waivers (ask your centre).

Verify fees with your local centre. Use our app for free unlimited practice and check our printable practice tests (PDFs) so you're ready before spending money on the test. See also our retake fees and rescore guide.

Yes. If you passed some GED tests before 2024, those can count toward the CAEC (up to 5 credits). For example, in Alberta a GED score ≥450 acts like a "minimum standard" CAEC pass. Note: Ontario accepted GED credits only until 2024 (check current policy).

Apply for PLAR credits by submitting your GED transcript; use CAEC Ready to prepare for any remaining subjects.

The CAEC is a one-time exam, not a full course. You prove high-school skills at once, rather than taking classes. It's faster than completing a full OSSD.

If you're wondering which path fits you, talk to an advisor (some adult ed centres help choose). Use our practice tests and PDFs to build skills quickly, or email us to discuss your options.

CAEC replaced the GED in Canada. It emphasizes real-world skills and digital literacy more. It uses shorter readings and more tables/charts. Some students find the CAEC's computer format different, but passing it shows you have strong practical skills.

Try a practice CAEC test in the app; if you passed GED in the past, skip questions you know and focus on CAEC's digital-style questions. See our CAEC vs GED comparison for the full breakdown.

Yes. Both provinces offer the CAEC in French. In Ontario, contact TVO with your request. In Alberta, email caec@alberta.ca for French exams.

If you prefer French, mention this when registering. Our email newsletter also offers tips in both languages.

Absolutely. The CAEC Ready app is mobile-friendly so you can study anytime. Practice tests in the app mimic the computer-based format.

Download on your phone and set daily reminders to study (even 10 minutes a day adds up). Open the app now to start your first practice quiz.

You'll write one short persuasive letter/email. Practice planning clearly, giving reasons, and checking grammar. A simple checklist: "state your opinion, give 2 reasons, wrap up politely."

In CAEC Ready, use our Writing Practice module to get tips on outlining and examples of strong responses.

CAEC reading includes everyday texts: news articles, ads, emails, charts, maps. You'll answer questions on main ideas and details.

Our app's Reading Practice covers exactly these types, including timed mini-tests to build speed.

Expect basic algebra, fractions, geometry, and real-life math (budgets, distances, scales). Part I focuses on mental math/fractions; Part II allows a calculator (covering larger problems).

Use our Math Drills (fractions, percentages, measurement) in the app, or our Math Bundle PDFs to sharpen each topic gradually.

Science questions test your understanding of experiments and data (inquiry skills) and basic concepts in everyday science. You'll interpret graphs, analyze an experiment's design, or identify bias.

Check out CAEC Ready's Science section, with sample questions on interpreting data and experimental setups.

Social Studies covers Canadian society: government, history, geography, and economy. You might read a historical excerpt or a map and answer questions.

Use CAEC Ready's Social Studies quizzes (including civics and geography) to build confidence with Canadian-focused content.

It varies. In Ontario, TVO/ILC offers tests most weeks at their centres. In Alberta, community centres offer tests regularly (some monthly). Check schedules online.

Book your test dates early, then use CAEC Ready's scheduled practice reminders to stay on track.

It's challenging but fair. It tests your existing knowledge and critical thinking. Success comes with practice and preparation.

Start with our 5-Minute Readiness Check quiz in the app to see which areas you know well and which need work, then use the app for targeted practice.

After you pass all sections, you automatically earn the high school equivalency certificate for your province (Ontario or Alberta). If you have passed some sections, request a transcript to track progress.

Log into the CAEC portal to see scores. After finishing, contact your testing centre if you haven't received the certificate within a few weeks.

Yes. British Columbia uses an adult diploma program (no CAEC exam) and Québec uses the TENS exam for equivalency. Note: If you plan to move, check those provinces' rules.

If you live outside ON/AB, email us so we can advise on your specific path.

Our CAEC Ready app offers practice tests, quizzes, and even daily challenges, matching the CAEC format. We also send email study plans to keep you motivated.

Download CAEC Ready and sign up for our email tips to get free study schedules and worksheets. For printable practice tests, see our Store (PDFs).

Contact your local adult learning centre or the CAEC office. Ontario students: info on registration is at the TVO ILC CAEC page. Alberta students: ask the test centre for details. You can also email us at support@caecready.com.

Keep practicing in CAEC Ready, and follow us on social media for updates.