ST. CLOUD, Minn. — A coming revamp of tests for adults seeking a high school diploma equivalent has many scrambling to complete their test work for fear of having to start over.

The General Educational Development diploma program is getting an update come January. The St. Cloud Times reported Thursday (http://on.sctimes.com/15fbDlw ) that it means adults hoping to obtain the certificate must earn it by year's end or start with a new, more rigorous computerized test.

In the St. Cloud area, there are more than 9,500 adults without a high school diploma. Officials are expecting a rush of people trying to complete their GED to avoid losing ground because test scores for adults who have not earned their GED diploma will be expunged once the changeover is made.

In 2014, the GED tests are being aligned to a new set of standards in English language arts and math. The tests were last updated in 2002.

Scott Wallner, assistant community education director with St. Cloud schools, said in a typical year there are about 100 people who take the tests. He's counting on 250 to 275 before the end of this year.

"Many people who have maybe started the test or taken two or three (exams) want to finish before the end of the year, and we're anticipating those who are almost done will want to get it finished before the change," he said. "I'm hoping we're just flooded with students in September."

Cecilia Nava, who dropped out of high school 10 years ago after her sophomore year, is nearing completion of her GED. She said she's motivated more than ever to get her final test done after passing four others.

"I don't want to take all of the tests over. I got some nice scores on all of them," she said. "I just need a 410 to pass my math. I'm at a 390 right now, so close. My goal is to take the test in October. If I don't pass, I'll have another chance before December."

The 2014 GED tests will be aligned with the Common Core Curriculum Standards, a state-led effort that establishes a single set of clear educational standards for kindergarten through 12th grade.

There's also the technological upgrade, which mean an end to paper-pencil tests were mostly multiple choice and writing. In the new version, test-takers will encounter questions requiring extended response, drag-and-drop, drop-down, fill-in-the-blank, hot spot, multiple choice and short answers. On the math test, students will be permitted to use a computer calculator.

"We are going to be teaching people to use that calculator and some typing," Wallner said.