What is a GED?

Introduction to the GED

The GED, or General Educational Development, is a high school equivalency test that measures knowledge and skills typically acquired during four years of high school. It is designed for individuals who have not completed high school and want to earn a credential that is equivalent to a traditional high school diploma.

The GED is recognized by most colleges and employers as a valid alternative to a traditional high school diploma. It is offered in both online and in-person formats, and is administered by the American Council on Education (ACE) and GED Testing Service.

The GED test covers four subject areas: mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts (reading and writing). The test is composed of multiple-choice and short-answer questions, as well as an essay. To pass the GED, test-takers must demonstrate a level of knowledge and skills that are equivalent to those of a high school graduate.

The GED is an important option for individuals who did not complete high school for various reasons, such as dropping out, being home-schooled, or being unable to attend traditional school due to personal or economic circumstances. It provides an opportunity for individuals to earn a high school equivalency credential and move on to higher education or employment.

History of the GED

The GED has a long and interesting history that dates back to the 1940s. It was developed as a way to provide a high school equivalency credential for World War II veterans who had left high school to serve in the military. These veterans were returning home and needed to have a high school diploma in order to enroll in college or find employment.

The first version of the GED test was developed in 1942 by the American Council on Education (ACE). It was designed to be a high-level, standardized test that measured the knowledge and skills of returning World War II veterans. The test was initially offered in only a few states, but it quickly gained popularity and was eventually offered nationwide.

Over the years, the GED test has undergone numerous updates and revisions. It has evolved to reflect the changing needs and expectations of employers and higher education institutions. The test has also been adapted to align with current educational standards and to incorporate new technologies, such as online testing.

Today, the GED is recognized as a valid alternative to a traditional high school diploma by most colleges and employers. It is offered in both online and in-person formats, and is administered by the ACE and GED Testing Service. It continues to provide individuals with an opportunity to earn a high school equivalency credential and move on to higher education or employment.

Eligibility requirements for the GED

To be eligible to take the GED test, individuals must meet certain requirements set by the American Council on Education (ACE) and GED Testing Service. These requirements vary by state, so it is important to check with your local testing center to determine the specific requirements in your area.

In general, individuals must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Age: In most states, individuals must be at least 18 years old to take the GED test. However, some states allow individuals who are 16 or 17 years old to take the test if they meet certain criteria, such as being out of school for a certain period of time or having permission from their parents or guardians.
2. Residency: Most states require individuals to be residents of the state in which they plan to take the GED test. There may be exceptions for individuals who are in the military or who are incarcerated.
3. Education: Individuals must not be currently enrolled in high school and must not have already earned a high school diploma.
4. Testing fees: There is a fee to take the GED test, which varies by state and testing center. Some states and testing centers may offer reduced fees or fee waivers for eligible individuals.

It is important to note that the GED test is not intended to be a “second chance” for individuals who have already graduated from high school. It is intended for individuals who have not completed high school and want to earn a high school equivalency credential. If you have already earned a high school diploma, you are not eligible to take the GED test.

How to prepare for the GED

If you are planning to take the GED test, it is important to prepare in order to increase your chances of success. There are a variety of resources available to help you prepare, including study guides, practice tests, and classes.

1. Study guides: There are many study guides available that can help you review the material covered on the GED test. These guides typically include practice questions and explanations of the concepts covered on the test. You can find GED study guides at your local library, bookstore, or online.
2. Practice tests: Taking practice tests can help you get a feel for the types of questions that will be on the GED test and can help you identify areas where you need to focus your studies. You can find GED practice tests online or through your local testing center.
3. Classes: Many community colleges and adult education centers offer GED preparation classes. These classes can be a good option if you prefer structured, in-person instruction. You can find GED classes in your area by searching online or contacting your local testing center.

In addition to these resources, you can also prepare for the GED test by reviewing the material covered on the test, such as math, science, social studies, and language arts (reading and writing). You can review this material by going over your old high school textbooks or by using online resources.

It is also important to give yourself plenty of time to study and prepare. Don’t try to cram all of your studying into a short period of time. Instead, spread your studying out over a longer period of time and set aside dedicated study time each day. This will help you retain the information better and feel more confident on test day.

The structure and content of the GED exam

The GED exam is a comprehensive test that covers four subject areas: mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts (reading and writing). It is composed of multiple-choice and short-answer questions, as well as an essay.

1. Mathematics: The mathematics section of the GED test covers topics such as algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It consists of two parts: a calculator section and a non-calculator section. The calculator section allows you to use a calculator to solve problems, while the non-calculator section does not allow the use of a calculator.
2. Science: The science section of the GED test covers topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth and space science. It consists of multiple-choice and short-answer questions, and may also include a laboratory component.
3. Social studies: The social studies section of the GED test covers topics such as history, geography, economics, and government. It consists of multiple-choice and short-answer questions.
4. Language arts: The language arts section of the GED test is divided into two parts: reading and writing. The reading section covers topics such as literature, informational texts, and social studies texts. The writing section covers topics such as grammar, sentence structure, and organization. The writing section also includes an essay component.

To pass the GED test, you must demonstrate a level of knowledge and skills that are equivalent to those of a high school graduate. You will need to score at least 145 on each subject area and at least 600 on the overall test in order to pass. The GED test is graded on a scale of 100-200, with a passing score being 145.

How to apply for the GED

If you are interested in taking the GED test, you will need to apply to take it at a local testing center. The process for applying for the GED test varies by state, so it is important to check with your local testing center for specific instructions.

In general, here is what you will need to do to apply for the GED test:

1. Check your eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements to take the GED test. These requirements vary by state, but typically include being at least 18 years old (some states allow individuals who are 16 or 17 to take the test under certain circumstances), not being currently enrolled in high school, and not having already earned a high school diploma.
2. Find a testing center: Find a testing center near you that offers the GED test. You can find a testing center by searching online or contacting your local adult education center.
3. Register and pay the testing fee: Register for the GED test online or in person at the testing center. You will need to pay the testing fee at the time of registration. The testing fee varies by state and testing center. Some states and testing centers may offer reduced fees or fee waivers for eligible individuals.
4. Schedule a testing appointment: Once you have registered for the GED test, you will need to schedule a testing appointment. Testing appointments are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis.

It is important to note that the GED test is not available in every state. Some states have alternative high school equivalency tests, such as the HiSET or TASC. If you are unable to take the GED test in your state, you may be able to take one of these alternative tests. Check with your local testing center for more information.

The benefits of earning a GED

Earning a GED can provide numerous benefits to individuals who have not completed high school. Some of the benefits of earning a GED include:

1. Improved job prospects: Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum education requirement for employment. Earning a GED can make you more competitive in the job market and may open up job opportunities that were previously unavailable to you.
2. Higher earning potential: Studies have shown that individuals who earn a GED tend to earn more than those who do not have a high school diploma. On average, GED holders earn $9,800 more per year than those who do not have a high school diploma.
3. Higher education opportunities: A GED can make it easier to enroll in college or other post-secondary educational programs. Many colleges and universities accept the GED as an equivalent to a high school diploma.
4. Personal satisfaction: Earning a GED can provide a sense of accomplishment and personal satisfaction. It can be a rewarding experience that can boost your confidence and self-esteem.

Earning a GED can be a challenging process, but it can also be a rewarding one. It can provide individuals with the skills and credentials they need to pursue higher education or employment opportunities and can lead to a better quality of life.

Alternatives to the GED

The GED is a widely recognized and accepted high school equivalency test, but it is not the only option available. There are other high school equivalency tests available, such as the HiSET and TASC, that are offered in certain states as an alternative to the GED.

1. HiSET: The HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) is a high school equivalency test offered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is available in 17 states and is accepted by colleges and employers as a valid alternative to a traditional high school diploma. The HiSET test covers five subject areas: mathematics, science, social studies, reading, and writing. It is offered in both online and in-person formats.
2. TASC: The TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) is a high school equivalency test offered by Data Recognition Corporation (DRC). It is available in eight states and is accepted by colleges and employers as a valid alternative to a traditional high school diploma. The TASC test covers five subject areas: mathematics, science, social studies, reading, and writing. It is offered in both online and in-person formats.

If you are unable to take the GED test in your state, you may be able to take one of these alternative tests. Check with your local testing center for more information on the availability and acceptance of these tests in your area.

Frequently asked questions about the GED

1. What is the GED test? The GED test is a high school equivalency test that measures knowledge and skills typically acquired during four years of high school. It is designed for individuals who have not completed high school and want to earn a credential that is equivalent to a traditional high school diploma.
2. Who is eligible to take the GED test? To be eligible to take the GED test, individuals must be at least 18 years old (some states allow individuals who are 16 or 17 to take the test under certain circumstances), not be currently enrolled in high school, and not have already earned a high school diploma. Residency requirements may also apply.
3. How do I prepare for the GED test? There are a variety of resources available to help you prepare for the GED test, including study guides, practice tests, and classes. You can also review the material covered on the test, such as math, science, social studies, and language arts (reading and writing), by going over your old high school textbooks or using online resources.
4. How is the GED test structured? The GED test covers four subject areas: mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts (reading and writing). It is composed of multiple-choice and short-answer questions, as well as an essay. The mathematics section includes a calculator and non-calculator portion, and the science section may include a laboratory component.
5. What is the passing score for the GED test? To pass the GED test, you must score at least 145 on each subject area and at least 600 on the overall test. The GED test is graded on a scale of 100-200, with a passing score being 145.
6. How do I apply for the GED test? To apply for the GED test, you will need to register at a local testing center. The process for registering varies by state, so it is important to check with your local testing center for specific instructions. You will need to pay a testing fee at the time of registration.
7. Are there alternatives to the GED test? The GED is not the only high school equivalency test available. There are other tests, such as the HiSET and TASC, that are offered in certain states as an alternative to the GED. If you are unable to take the GED test in your state, you may be able to take one of these alternative tests. Check with your local testing center for more information.