West Virginia is taking steps to boost the education of the roughly 25 percent of its adult population without a high school diploma.

Starting this month, changes to the General Educational Development Testing program, commonly known as the GED, will make it easier for residents to participate.

A $50 fee required to take the test has been dropped, and those wishing to take the test will have to complete a practice exam.

Linda Berlin, coordinator of adult education for Marshall County schools, said the changes are designed to boost participation and increase the success rate.

The program is also changing the GED's designation from a certificate to a diploma. Berlin said that carries more weight with employers.