After decades as a paper and pencil, multiple choice test, the New Year has brought with it a new  GED test administered solely on computer.

Its creators said the content of the made over General Education Development test will now better reflect high school learning standards that increasingly focus on critical thinking and problem solving skills.

They also said the new test - a seven-hour exam - is harder and measures more skills valued by employers, meaning it'll help open the door for college and the job market.

The GED is a national test given to adults who dropped out of high school or didn't earn their diploma for other reasons. Tens of thousands of Californians pass the test each year, earning their high school diploma.

The new test requires entirely new preparation and costs about $150.

Because of that, hundreds of adult education centers across the state had been abuzz about changes, creating a rush to take the old, easier test before the deadline.

Some people are wondering whether they have enough computer skills to pass the new test. California officials are considering offering a paper and pencil version of the test later this year.