The GED, or General Educational Development, is a high school equivalency test that measures the knowledge and skills of individuals who did not complete high school. It is designed to be equivalent to a traditional high school curriculum and is accepted by many employers and educational institutions as equivalent to a high school diploma. The GED exam is offered in both English and Spanish and is available to individuals who are at least 16 years old and not currently enrolled in high school.
The GED exam is divided into four subject areas: mathematical reasoning, reasoning through language arts, science, and social studies. The exam is computer-based and provides instant results to the test-taker. The GED exam is used as a measure of one’s readiness for college or career, and passing the GED exam can open up new opportunities for individuals who did not complete high school.
Eligibility Requirements for the GED Exam
To be eligible to take the GED exam, an individual must meet certain criteria. These include:
- Being at least 16 years old.
- Not currently enrolled in high school.
- Residing in the state where you plan to take the exam.
- Meeting any additional state-specific requirements, such as passing a pre-test or completing a certain number of hours of instruction.
It is important to note that some states have age restrictions, meaning that test-takers must be at least 18 years old to take the GED exam, while others may require a certain level of educational attainment or require the test-taker to be a resident of the state for a certain period of time.
Additionally, some states may require the test-taker to provide identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, in order to take the GED exam. It is important to check with the testing center or your state’s Department of Education for specific eligibility requirements.
It is also important to note that some test takers may be required to provide proof of withdrawal from high school or a letter of exemption from the last school attended.
Format and Content of the GED Exam
The GED exam consists of four subject tests: mathematical reasoning, reasoning through language arts, science, and social studies. Each test is computer-based and is designed to measure the knowledge and skills of individuals who did not complete high school.
The Mathematical Reasoning test measures the test-taker’s ability to understand mathematical concepts, apply mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, and perform mathematical operations. This test is divided into two parts: Part 1 is calculator active and Part 2 is calculator inactive.
The Reasoning Through Language Arts test measures the test-taker’s ability to read, write, and understand text. It is divided into two parts: a reading comprehension section and a writing section.
The Science test measures the test-taker’s understanding of scientific concepts and the ability to analyze and interpret data.
The Social Studies test measures the test-taker’s understanding of social studies concepts and the ability to analyze and interpret data.
Each subject test is timed, with the mathematical reasoning test being the longest at 115 minutes, and the others lasting 90 minutes. The test-taker will have access to an on-screen calculator for the mathematical reasoning test only.
The GED exam is scored on a scale of 100-200, with a passing score being 145 for each subject test.
Preparing for the GED Exam
Preparing for the GED exam is crucial for achieving a passing score. There are several resources available for individuals who wish to prepare for the test, including:
- GED study guides: These guides provide an overview of the test format and content, as well as sample questions and test-taking strategies.
- GED classes: These classes are often offered by community colleges, adult education centers, and libraries. They provide instruction in all four subject areas of the GED exam and are taught by certified instructors.
- Online GED preparation courses: There are many online GED preparation courses available that provide instruction in all four subject areas of the GED exam and include practice tests.
- Practice Tests: These are available online, or through GED preparation classes, and can be a great way to familiarize yourself with the test format and content, as well as identify areas where you may need additional study.
It’s important to note that the GED test format and content have changed a few times over the years, and it’s crucial to prepare with the most updated materials.
In addition to these resources, it is also important to establish a study schedule and stick to it. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you are adequately prepared for the GED exam.
Taking the GED Exam
The GED exam is offered at designated testing centers across the country. It is important to check with your state’s Department of Education for the nearest testing center and to schedule an appointment to take the test.
When you arrive at the testing center, you will be required to provide identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and to sign in. You will also be required to agree to the testing center’s rules and regulations, such as not bringing any prohibited items, such as a cell phone, into the testing room.
The GED exam is computer-based and consists of four subject tests: mathematical reasoning, reasoning through language arts, science, and social studies. The test-taker may take one or more subject test at a time, or all in one day, depending on the testing center’s schedule and the test-taker’s preference.
It’s important to arrive at the testing center on time and to be well-rested and prepared for the test. You will be given instructions before each test, and you will have access to an on-screen calculator for the mathematical reasoning test only.
When the test is complete, you will receive an unofficial score report for each subject test. These scores will indicate whether or not you passed the test, and if you did not pass, you will have the opportunity to retake the test.
Scoring and Results of the GED Exam
The GED exam is scored on a scale of 100-200, with a passing score being 145 for each subject test. The test-taker will receive an unofficial score report for each subject test immediately upon completion of the test. These scores will indicate whether or not you passed the test, and if you did not pass, you will have the opportunity to retake the test.
It is important to note that some states have different passing scores, so it is important to check with your state’s Department of Education for the specific passing score.
If you pass the GED exam, you will receive an official GED diploma and transcript, which can be used to apply for jobs and further education. Some states may require the test-taker to pay a fee to receive the official diploma and transcript, but most states provide it for free.
If you do not pass the GED exam, you will have the opportunity to retake the test. However, it is important to note that some states have limits on the number of times a test-taker can retake a failed subject test. It is important to check with your state’s Department of Education for retake policies.
It is also important to note that the GED scores are valid for a certain number of years, after which the test-taker will have to retake the exam.
Continuing Education and Career Opportunities after Passing the GED Exam
Passing the GED exam can open up new opportunities for individuals who did not complete high school. Many employers and educational institutions accept the GED as equivalent to a high school diploma, and passing the GED exam can make it possible to pursue a college education or enter the workforce.
Many community colleges and trade schools accept the GED as a prerequisite for enrollment, and passing the GED exam can make it possible to pursue an associate’s or vocational degree. Additionally, many four-year colleges and universities also accept the GED as a prerequisite for enrollment, but it’s important to check with the specific institution for their admission requirements.
Passing the GED exam can also make it possible to enter the workforce. Many employers accept the GED as equivalent to a high school diploma, and passing the GED exam can make it possible to qualify for jobs that require a high school diploma.
In addition, there are many career and vocational training programs available for individuals who have passed the GED exam. Some of these programs are specifically designed for individuals who have passed the GED exam, and they provide training for specific careers such as healthcare, construction, and information technology.
Overall, passing the GED exam can open up new opportunities for individuals who did not complete high school and can help them pursue their career and educational goals.
