More than one million adults in Georgia don’t have a high school diploma. And without a high school credential, they’re less likely to get a good-paying job, discover a great career and enjoy a better life.

There’s no better time than now to take the one easy step that can change their lives forever.

And it can start with a free GED® practice test.

During the week of Sept. 10-14, Georgia’s adult education centers throughout Georgia, including Southwest Georgia Technical College will be offering adult learners the opportunity to take a GED practice test at no charge from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 10 and Sept. 12. All prospective test-takers need to do is visit Southwest Georgia Technical College and see how a small investment of their time can open the door to greater opportunities for them and their families.

Staff will also be on hand to explain what’s needed to sign up for the GED preparation classes that are always free to every Georgian. They’ll also explain how the cost of taking the full set of GED tests shouldn’t be a deterrent to anyone because grants and other financial assistance, including a scholarship provided by AT&T, are available.

“We’re actively campaigning to help people throughout Georgia understand that we can help them prepare for the GED test and, with a little effort, they can earn a GED credential. After that, we’ll assist with their transition from GED diploma to college degree or into a better job. I encourage every adult learner in Georgia to make plans now to visit their local adult education center and take advantage of a free GED practice test session during the week of September 10 through 14,” said Beverly Smith, the TCSG assistant commissioner for adult education.

“Taking the GED practice test will be an asset for anyone needing to test for their GED diploma. It is a good indicator of the probability of a successful outcome when taking the actual test and helps you practice your test-taking skills under simulated test conditions,” said Dale Aldridge, Executive Director of Adult Education at SWGTC.

For more information about free GED® Practice Tests, dates, time and location, contact Mary Lou Vonier at 229-225-5067. You must be at least 18 years or older to take the practice test and must score a minimum of 520 on each section to be qualified for scholarships to take the GED® exam.

Last year, more than 19,000 adult learners earned their GED diploma. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a person with a high school or GED credential earns an average of $10,000 more per year than a non-high school graduate. The income level increases substantially more for those who go on to complete a certificate, diploma or degree program from college.

SWGTC offers more than 80 certificate, diploma, and degree programs. Many of these programs provide training for some of the nation’s fastest-growing career fields including Nursing, Automotive Technology, Clinical Laboratory Technology, and Criminal Justice Technology. More information may be obtained by calling 229-225-4096 or by logging onto www.southwestgatech.edu.

Spring Semester begins Jan. 7, 2013.

Southwest Georgia Technical College is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia.