Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC)

The Canadian Adult Education Credential is a series of five tests (math, reading, writing, social studies and science) designed to award a high school equivalency, replacing the Canadian GED tests. It can also be used to validate an existing high school diploma or to validate skills for employment or post-secondary education. 

There is no effect on the validity of completed GED credentials.

The tests are available in both official languages. 

Those wishing to earn the credential must be at least 18 and a resident of New Brunswick. Home-schooled applicants who are at least 17 may be considered as well. 

To file for an age exemption, complete the CAEC age exemption form (PDF 219 KB) and submit by email to [email protected].   
 
Language level is not a requirement to take the tests, but candidates are advised that tests are leveled at a Canadian Language Benchmark 7. Those whose first language is not English or French or are not a 7 should consider upgrading their language level. 

The tests may be taken on a computer at various centres in New Brunswick.

Along with practice tests, curricular outcomes can be reviewed on the official CAEC website. 

Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) 

The Canadian GED tests, if written in 2002 or after, can be used towards a CAEC, to avoid writing a test you already completed under the GED. Certain high school courses may also be used as an exemption from subject tests. An assessment of the candidate’s prior learning follows guidelines (PDF 125 KB), which outline what courses count towards each section of the tests.

The request for prior learning assessment recognition form (PDF 148 KB) and all supporting documents should be submitted to [email protected]. 

Universal supports

Universal supports are available to all digital test-takers, embedded into the testing platform, so no request is required. Examples include:

• screen colour overlay
• screen text highlighter/line reader
• zoom feature

Special arrangements

Special arrangements are environmental conditions that make a candidate more comfortable when writing a test without affecting the legitimacy of the results. Examples of special arrangements include:

• extra time
• additional breaks
• dictation (speech-to-text)
• audio (text-to-speech)
• private writing space

Availability of special arrangements varies among testing locations. Candidates should ensure their CAEC Testing Centre can provide the requested special arrangements.  
 
Special arrangements can be requested through the test booking platform. The Testing Center will then reach out to the candidate to discuss accommodations. 

Accommodations

Accommodations are targeted supports for candidates with a medically diagnosed condition or extenuating circumstances. Accommodations include:

• basic calculator for Math, Part 1
• input assistance
• braille format
• extra time
• additional breaks
• private writing space

Your first transcript and diploma will be sent to you after you finish your last test—you do not need to request it. 
 
If you need to replace either of them, you may do so at a nominal fee:

• replacement diploma – $10
• replacement transcript – $5

You can request this in one of three ways:

• online at the GED/CAEC transcript and/or diploma request form
• by telephone at 1-888-762-8600
• in person at your nearest SNB office

If you want the document(s) sent to someone else other than yourself, you will be required to provide the name of the person or institution, mailing address and fax (if applicable). 

Administration fees are non-refundable.