Rockland BOCES, in collaboration with Rockland Community College, provides preparation classes for the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) exam, which has replaced the GED as a pathway to a high school equivalency diploma.
If you are 18 or older and do not possess a U.S. high school diploma, you are eligible to enroll and attend these classes at a nominal tuition of $10 per semester. Classes are held in Nyack, Haverstraw and Spring Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions About TASC
Who can take the exam?
Any New York State resident, 19 years of age or older, and without a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma can take the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC). For the rules about eligibility to take the exam for people under 19 years of age, go to http://www.access.nysed.gov/hse/app_process.html.
What is on exam?
The TASC includes five sections: Language Arts – Reading; Language Arts – Writing; Mathematics; Science; and, Social Studies.
The TASC takes about nine hours to complete and is usually administered in one or two days. If one or more of the five subject area subtests are not passed, those parts may be retaken after 60 days. First time TASC test takers must complete all five subtests.
In most cases, the TASC may be taken up to three times in a calendar year.
What does the exam cost?
The TASC is FREE of charge to New York State residents.
Will my old GED test scores count?
Passing scores from previous GED tests will count toward passing the TASC until 2016. For more information, go to http://www.access.nysed.gov/hse/.
Am I ready to take the exam?
The TASC is a rigorous exam, assessing knowledge at the high school level in math, writing, reading, social studies and science. Sample test questions are available online at http://www.tasctest.com/sample-questions.html.
Can I take the TASC in a language other than English?
Yes, the TASC is available in English and Spanish.
Are testing accommodations available?
The TASC is offered in some special formats and special testing accommodations are available. For information, go to http://www.tasctest.com/accommodations-for-disabilities.html.
On which learning standards is the TASC based?
The TASC is based on Common Core Learning Standards for mathematics and English Language Arts, as well as other national standards for science and social studies. For information about these standards, go to http://www.engageny.org/common-core-curriculum-assessments.
Why earn a high school equivalency diploma?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a high school diploma have a lower unemployment rate than those without.
Unemployment Rate Based on Education
Less than a high school diploma: 12.4%
High school diploma: 8.3%
Some college, no degree: 7.7%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2013)
In addition, high school diploma holders earn on average $35,086 per year-$10,000 more than workers without a high school diploma.
Earnings Based on Education
Less than a high school diploma: $24,963
High school diploma or high school equivalency diploma: $35,086
Some college, no degree: $38,531
(Source: Data are for persons employed full-time, age 25 and over. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2013)
How do I get started?
You must attend a TASC orientation before taking the TASC placement test. For an orientation schedule, call (845) 348-3500 ext. 3500.
CONTACT
For more information about TASC, call (845) 348-3500 ext. 3500 or contact Albert Moschetti at amoschet@rboces.org.