How New Brunswick CAEC Test Works

As of May 3, 2024, Canada replaced the GED exam with a new, Canadian-designed high school equivalency test called the CAEC—the Canadian Adult Education Credential. If you’ve already taken part of the GED before this change, your GED scores remain valid until May 2027 and can be applied toward the CAEC.

This guide explains how the New Brunswick CAEC test works, who qualifies, how to register, and how to prepare.

What Is the CAEC Test?

The CAEC test is Canada’s official high school equivalency exam. It is made up of five separate subtests, each one covering a major academic subject:

1. Language Arts Reading

2. Language Arts Writing

3. Mathematics (Parts 1 & 2)

4. Social Studies

5. Science

Each subtest is independent, and you can take them one at a time and in any order. The entire exam takes just over 7 hours to complete if done all at once—but in New Brunswick, you can take it in parts.

New Brunswick CAEC Test Format

• The CAEC test in New Brunswick is computer-based only

• Paper testing is not available, except in special settings

• The exam is free for eligible residents

• Additional GED document requests still follow old GED fees ($5 for transcripts, $10 for replacement diplomas)

Eligibility for the New Brunswick CAEC Test

To take the New Brunswick CAEC test, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a resident of New Brunswick

• Not currently be enrolled in high school

• Not already hold a high school diploma or equivalent

In some cases, 17-year-olds may qualify, but additional documentation is required. For more details, contact the New Brunswick CAEC Testing Office at (506) 444-2525.

How to Register for the CAEC Test

Registration is done through the New Brunswick government CAEC website. You do not need to:

• Complete a classroom-based prep course

• Pass an official CAEC practice test before registering

But you do need to be fully prepared, as the exam is known for its level of difficulty.

CAEC Preparation – Why It Matters

The CAEC exam measures knowledge at a level similar to that of graduating high school students. To do well, you’ll need strong skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.

Cansego (formerly Onsego Canada) offers a fully online CAEC prep course that includes:

• Short, focused video lessons on every topic

• Practice tests to track your progress

• Timed quizzes to build time management skills

• Affordable, self-paced learning for busy adults

Cansego’s prep program is tailored specifically for Canadian learners and aligned with CAEC standards. Many students find it the fastest and most effective way to prepare from home.

Why Take Practice Tests?

Taking practice tests is a proven way to:

• Identify your strengths and weaknesses

• Focus your study time on areas that need improvement

• Get comfortable with the timed format of the CAEC

• Build confidence for exam day

Many students who didn’t pass on their first attempt said they struggled with time pressure. Practising with time limits helps improve your performance and boosts your scores.

Local Support and Contacts

To learn more or ask questions about the New Brunswick CAEC test, contact your regional CAEC coordinator:

• Fredericton & Western Valley – Emily Morrissey: testing@cvala.ca | (506) 429-5634

• Saint John & Southwest – Heather Goudreau: testingcentre@saintjohnkings.com | (506) 343-0366

• Moncton & Southeast – Carey Beers: exams@education-se.ca | (506) 857-9912

• Miramichi & Kent – Courtney Dignam: courtney.dignam@gnb.ca | (506) 626-3535

• Acadian Peninsula – André Clément Comeau: andreclement.comeau@gnb.ca | (506) 393-9739

• Restigouche & Chaleur – Renelle Santerre-Perron: renelle.santerre-perron@gnb.ca | (506) 759-6628

• Edmundston & Grand Falls – Julie Garneau: julie.garneau@gnb.ca | Edmundston: (506) 735-2263 | Grand Falls: (506) 473-7572

Official CAEC Contact – New Brunswick

CAEC Chief Examiner
WorkingNB, Department of Postsecondary Education, Training & Labour
470 York Street, Suite 120 (P.O. Box 6000)
Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1
Phone: (506) 444-2525

Final Thoughts on the New Brunswick CAEC Test

• The New Brunswick CAEC test is the new standard for earning your high school equivalency diploma.

• It is free, computer-based, and available across the province.

• GED scores remain valid until May 2027.

• Preparation is the key to success—Cansego provides a trusted, Canadian-focused prep course to help you succeed.

Start preparing today with Cansego and take the next step toward earning your diploma!