The GED test is an alternative to a high school diploma that certifies an individual’s academic knowledge and skills at a level comparable to that of a high school graduate. The acronym “GED” stands for General Educational Development. The GED test is designed for individuals who did not complete high school or who are seeking an alternative to a traditional high school diploma.
The GED test measures knowledge and skills in four content areas: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Each of these content areas is designed to measure critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. The GED test is available in English and Spanish.
The GED test is developed and administered by the American Council on Education (ACE). The GED test is recognized by colleges and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma. Many colleges and universities accept the GED credential for admission, and some employers require a GED credential for job applications.
GED Test Content Areas
The GED test is divided into four content areas: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Each content area measures specific skills and knowledge that a high school graduate should possess. Here is an overview of the four content areas on the GED test:
- Reasoning Through Language Arts: This content area measures a test-taker’s ability to read and understand written text, as well as their ability to write clearly and effectively. The test includes multiple-choice questions and a written essay. The essay requires test-takers to analyze and evaluate written arguments and to support their own arguments with evidence.
- Mathematical Reasoning: This content area measures a test-taker’s ability to solve problems using mathematical concepts, including algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The test includes multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions that require test-takers to solve problems and show their work.
- Science: This content area measures a test-taker’s understanding of basic science concepts and their ability to apply those concepts to real-world situations. The test includes multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions that require test-takers to analyze data and scientific information.
- Social Studies: This content area measures a test-taker’s understanding of history, geography, economics, and government. The test includes multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions that require test-takers to analyze and interpret historical events and data.
The GED test is computer-based and timed. The test is designed to be completed in approximately 7.5 hours, with each content area taking around 90 minutes to complete. In the next section, we will discuss the format of the GED test in more detail.
GED Test Format
The GED test is computer-based and administered at authorized testing centers. The test is divided into four content areas, and each content area is timed. Here is an overview of the GED test format:
- Reasoning Through Language Arts: This content area is 150 minutes long and includes multiple-choice questions and a written essay. The multiple-choice questions are designed to measure reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary skills. The essay requires test-takers to analyze and evaluate written arguments and to support their own arguments with evidence.
- Mathematical Reasoning: This content area is 115 minutes long and includes multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions that require test-takers to solve problems and show their work. The multiple-choice questions are designed to measure algebraic and geometric concepts, as well as data analysis and statistics.
- Science: This content area is 90 minutes long and includes multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions that require test-takers to analyze data and scientific information. The questions cover basic science concepts, including life science, physical science, and earth and space science.
- Social Studies: This content area is 90 minutes long and includes multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions that require test-takers to analyze and interpret historical events and data. The questions cover topics such as U.S. history, world history, economics, and government.
The GED test is designed to be completed in approximately 7.5 hours, with each content area taking around 90 minutes to complete. The test is administered on a computer, and test-takers can navigate through the questions at their own pace within the time limits of each content area. In the next section, we will discuss how the GED test is scored.
GED Test Scoring
The GED test is scored on a scale of 100-200 points for each content area. A minimum score of 145 is required to pass each content area, and a minimum combined score of 580 is required to earn a GED credential. The GED test is scored by a combination of computer-based scoring and human scoring.
Multiple-choice questions on the GED test are scored by a computer, while open-ended questions and the written essay are scored by human graders. The GED test uses a “compensatory scoring” system, which means that a higher score on one content area can compensate for a lower score on another content area. However, a minimum score of 145 is required in each content area to pass the test.
Test-takers who do not pass the GED test can retake any content area that they did not pass. However, there are limits to how many times a test-taker can retake each content area in a given time period. Test-takers should consult their local testing center for information on retake policies and fees.
Taking the GED Test
Once you are prepared and feel confident, you can register to take the GED test at an authorized testing center. It is important to check the eligibility requirements for taking the test in your state, as well as the test fees and testing center locations.
On the day of the test, arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time. Make sure to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and any other materials required by the testing center. You will also need to bring a face mask as many testing centers require them due to COVID-19 safety protocols.
During the test, it is important to manage your time wisely. Each content area has a set amount of time, and you must complete all questions within that time frame. Pace yourself and make sure to answer all questions, even if you are unsure of the answer. Remember that compensatory scoring means that doing well in one content area can make up for a lower score in another content area.
After completing the test, you will receive a preliminary score report immediately. This report will show your scores for each content area and whether you have passed or not. However, this report is not your official GED credential. The official credential will be mailed to you within a few weeks of passing the test.
Receiving Your GED Test Scores
After taking the GED test, you will receive a preliminary score report that shows your scores for each content area and whether you have passed or not. However, this report is not your official GED credential. The official credential will be mailed to you within a few weeks of passing the test.
If you do not pass the GED test, the score report will show your scores for each content area and the areas in which you need to improve. This information can be used to help you prepare for retaking the test. Test-takers can retake any content area that they did not pass, but there are limits to how many times a test-taker can retake each content area in a given time period.
If you have passed the GED test, congratulations! Your official GED credential will be mailed to you within a few weeks. The GED credential is recognized by colleges and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma, and can open up new opportunities for further education and career advancement.
In some states, you may also be able to access your GED test scores and transcript online. Check with your state’s GED testing program to see if this option is available.