GED - INFORMATION FOR OUT-OF-SCHOOL YOUTH UNDER THE AGE OF 18
 
The information below is for 16 and 17-year-old out-of-school youth who wish to apply to take the GED Tests.
 
An applicant who is under 18 and whose class HAS graduated may submit written proof from the last school attended of the graduation date of his/her class and may then take the test.
 
An applicant who is under 18 and whose class HAS NOT graduated must receive permission from the state administrator of the GED Testing Program to take the test. The applicant must be at least 16 years of age. The applicant must submit to the GED administrator the items listed below:

1. A letter with a handwritten signature from the applicant, stating the following:
   • His/her date of birth
   • His/her reason for wishing to take the GED test at this time including an explanation of why he/she has chosen this option and of why the GED is important to his/her future plans
   • The location of the testing center where he/she plans to take the test.
2. An official statement from the superintendent, principal or guidance counselor of the last school attended giving the date the applicant officially withdrew from school or a letter stating that the student has been a participant in a home schooling program.
3. A statement on school letterhead from a school official (superintendent, principal, or guidance counselor) stating that it is in the applicant's best interest to take the GED test at this time OR a letter from one of the following:
   • A college, university or post-secondary school official stating that a high school equivalency is required.
   • An employer who states that the applicant's job is contingent on a high school equivalency.
   • A recruiting official of the Armed Forces who states that a high school equivalency is needed.

One letter from a school official may include both #2 and #3. Home schooled students may ask school officials to sign a special home schooling form in place of a letter. (Information for home-schooled applicants)  
 
The student letter of request and supporting materials from school officials should be mailed to GED Administrator, NH Department of Education, Division of Adult Learning and Rehabilitation, 21 South Fruit Street, Suite 20, Concord, NH 03301 . Faxed materials cannot be accepted.

Requests for permission to test before the age of 18 will be considered by the GED administrator when all items have been received. A response will be mailed to the applicant and to the local GED Testing Center where he/she plans to test.