Frequently Asked Questions

GED logo

Who can attend Lane ABSE/GED classes?
Admission Requirements:

  • Students must be at least 16 years of age to attend our ABSE/GED classes.
  • If you are 16 to 17 years old, you must have a signed release from compulsory education form, from the school district in which you currently live. Contact your school district or school counseling office for more information. (Our office does not generate these forms.)

How do I get started in ABSE classes?
These are the steps in our program:

  1. Decide what term you would like to start classes.
  2. Fill out the ABSE Admissions & Class Placement Form.
  3. Participate in class and communicate with your instructor regularly, do the homework, and ask for assistance when you feel you may need it.
  4. Take advantage of the support resources available to you through Lane.
  5. Celebrate your success!

Note: if you are under the age of 18, you will need to complete some extra steps to enter classes. Please see our Steps to Enroll Page to learn how to apply for classes with us!


How much will it cost me to take classes with ABSE?
Currently, all Lane Community College GED preparation courses and Adult Basic Skills courses through the ABSE Department are tuition-free. Students in ABSE classes must pay a mandatory $27 transportation fee each term.

Can I get a LTD bus pass like other Lane Community College students?

The ABSE/GED program at the Main Campus and Mary Spilde Downtown Center charges a LCC transportation fee of $27 per term. This will allow students at these 2 locations to obtain a LTD Bus Pass for no additional charge. All other ABSE/GED sites will remain free of charge to the student but students at these sites will not be eligible for a free or discounted LTD bus pass.

Can I get a free tutor?
Yes! See the Support page for more information.

Do you have computers I can use?
We have a small amount of Chromebooks available for student check out. Ask our office staff or your instructor for more information.

What's the difference between a "hybrid" course and an "online" course?
A hybrid course means that some of your class material is found online and some of it happens in the classroom. This combination set-up is used by instructors differently, depending upon their preferences. Some instructors keep supplementary materials online, and others may require that you work online as part of the course.

Your teacher will show you how to use Moodle--Lane's online course system--and you can also login to Moodle instructions here. Go to Student> Support on the top menu.

Online courses are 100% online. No classes are scheduled and you must organize and budget your time on your own. All of our ABSE/GED courses are offered online at this time.

Do I have to take tests to get into your program?
Not at this time.

How long will it take me to pass the GED?
The time it takes to prepare for the GED depends on you:

  • Your skill levels in reading and math when you start.
  • How regularly you attend classes.
  • The amount of time and effort you put into studying.

Can I just take the official GED practice tests through this department and not take classes?
You can take official GED practice tests online through the ged.com website. There is a $6 per test fee. You do not need to be registered in our classes to take GED practice tests, however, Lane GED instructors can help you set up your online GED account and prepare you for these practice tests. Instructors may also have alternate free practice tests for students who are registered and attending GED classes. Your instructor can help you determine when those tests are appropriate for you.

Can I just take the official GED tests without participating in GED preparation classes? Yes, if you are over the age of 18, or have release documentation from your school district. Learn more about the test and sign up on your own at https://ged.com, However, with at least 5 weeks of preparation classes, you will know more about what to expect, get help with the registration process, be eligible for scholarships only available to those who prepare at Lane and meet with advisors to learn how to transition to your next steps. This investment in time may save you money in the long run. Taking official tests over will cost more time and money than preparing adequately and passing on the first try. If you want to take the tests without preparation, see the next question, and schedule your test through ged.com/.

How do I go about taking my GED?
Check out Testing Support Services to learn more (what ID to bring, etc.)

How much will my GED tests cost? The GED test is a four-subject high school equivalency test that measures skills required by high schools and requested by colleges and employers. The four subjects are Science, Social Studies, Mathematical Reasoning, and Reasoning Through Language Arts. The current version of the GED tests cost $38 per test. You can retake an exam for $10. You can also take an official GED Practice Test for $6 per test, by signing up online.

Can I get financial aid while in GED classes?
ABSE classes are noncredit, free or low-cost courses and therefore do not qualify for financial aid. A student has to be enrolled in credit classes to apply for financial aid. However...(see next question).

What if I can't afford the tests? Or what if I need help with fees? Is there financial help for me?
We do have limited scholarships available to students who could not otherwise afford to take the GED exams. The scholarships cover only a portion of the cost of the tests. For students who complete our program and meet eligibility requirements, we offer tuition waivers and scholarships for a good start with Lane credit classes.

Where can I get a copy of my GED Certificate or Transcript?
You can obtain a copy of your transcript by accessing the GED Testing Service website.

Is there somebody I can talk to on the phone?
Yes! Please call our main campus phone number 541-463-5214 and someone will return your call promptly. We are happy to answer your questions.

What is the fastest way to have my questions answered?
Email! Reach us at ABSE@lanecc.edu during regular business hours 8 am - 4 pm, M-F.