The GED test is a high school equivalency exam that measures the skills and knowledge typically acquired in four years of high school education. The test is designed to provide individuals who didn’t finish high school with an opportunity to earn a high school credential and pursue post-secondary education or career opportunities.
The GED test covers four main subject areas: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. The test is administered in both computer-based and paper-based formats and is available in English and Spanish.
The GED test is developed and administered by the American Council on Education (ACE) in collaboration with Pearson VUE, a global leader in computer-based testing. The test is designed to be accessible to a wide range of test-takers and to reflect the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s workforce and higher education environments.
What Subjects Are on the GED Test?
The GED test covers four main subject areas, each of which measures a different set of skills and knowledge:
- Reasoning through Language Arts: This subject area measures reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking skills. Test-takers will read and analyze literary and informational texts, and they’ll also be required to write an extended response essay.
- Mathematical Reasoning: This subject area measures quantitative reasoning, algebraic problem-solving, and data analysis skills. Test-takers will be required to solve mathematical problems using real-world scenarios and mathematical models.
- Science: This subject area measures knowledge and skills related to physical, life, and earth and space sciences. Test-takers will read and analyze scientific information, interpret data, and apply scientific principles to solve problems.
- Social Studies: This subject area measures knowledge and skills related to U.S. history, civics and government, economics, and geography. Test-takers will read and analyze historical and social science texts, interpret maps and charts, and apply social studies principles to solve problems.
Each subject area on the GED test is designed to reflect the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in college and career settings. The test is rigorous and challenging, but with proper preparation and study, test-takers can demonstrate their readiness to succeed in post-secondary education or career opportunities.
Understanding the GED Test Format
The GED test is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats. The computer-based test is the most common option and is offered at authorized testing centers throughout the United States and Canada. The paper-based test is only available in certain situations, such as for test-takers with disabilities who require special accommodations.
The GED test format is similar across all subject areas. Each subject area includes multiple choice questions, drag-and-drop items, short answer questions, and extended response essay questions. The specific format and number of questions varies by subject area, but test-takers can expect to see a mix of question types on each section of the test.
The GED test is designed to be accessible to all test-takers, including those with disabilities or limited English proficiency. Test-takers can request accommodations, such as extra time or a separate testing room, if they have a documented disability that impacts their ability to take the test under standard conditions. Accommodations are also available for English language learners, such as extended testing time or a bilingual dictionary.
It’s important for test-takers to become familiar with the test format and question types in advance of test day. The official GED website offers a variety of free resources to help test-takers prepare for the test, including practice tests, study guides, and sample questions. Additionally, many adult education programs and community colleges offer GED test preparation courses to help test-takers build the skills and knowledge needed to succeed on the test.
Test-takers should also review the official GED testing policies and procedures, which outline important information about test registration, scheduling, and testing rules. For example, test-takers must bring valid identification to the testing center on test day, and they must follow all testing rules and guidelines to ensure a fair and secure testing environment.
By understanding the GED test format and policies, test-takers can feel confident and prepared on test day and demonstrate their readiness for post-secondary education or career opportunities.
How Is the GED Test Scored?
The GED test is scored on a scale of 100-200 points for each subject area. To pass the GED test, test-takers must score a minimum of 145 points on each subject area, for a total of at least 580 points across all four subject areas. Scores above 165 on any subject area are considered “college ready” and indicate that the test-taker has demonstrated the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in college-level courses.
The GED test is designed to measure college and career readiness, and the passing score reflects the level of proficiency needed to succeed in these settings. However, it’s important to note that the passing score is not equivalent to a high school diploma. The GED test provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and skills, but it does not confer a high school diploma or replace the value of a traditional high school education.
Test-takers will receive an official score report within 3-5 business days of completing the test. The score report includes detailed information about the test-taker’s performance on each subject area, as well as an overall pass or fail status. If a test-taker does not pass a subject area, they are allowed to retake that subject area up to two times without any waiting period. After the third attempt, a 60-day waiting period is required before the subject area can be retaken again.
It’s important to note that passing the GED test is just the first step in achieving post-secondary education or career goals. Test-takers should also explore the many resources available for college and career planning, such as career counseling, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities. With the right preparation and support, GED test-takers can achieve their goals and pursue rewarding educational and career pathways.
GED Test Tips and Strategies
Preparing for the GED test can be challenging, but there are many tips and strategies that can help test-takers succeed. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Start by taking a practice test. The official GED website offers free practice tests for each subject area, which can help test-takers identify areas of strength and weakness and develop a targeted study plan.
- Focus on the areas where you need the most improvement. Use your practice test results to identify the subject areas where you scored the lowest, and spend extra time studying and practicing those topics.
- Practice your test-taking skills. The GED test includes a mix of question types, so it’s important to be familiar with each type and how to approach it. For example, multiple-choice questions often include answer choices that are designed to trick test-takers, so it’s important to read each question carefully and eliminate obviously wrong answer choices before making a final selection.
- Manage your time effectively. The GED test is timed, so it’s important to work efficiently and avoid getting stuck on any one question for too long. If you’re unsure about a question, make your best guess and move on to the next one.
- Take advantage of testing accommodations if needed. If you have a documented disability or limited English proficiency, you may be eligible for testing accommodations such as extra time or a separate testing room. Be sure to request accommodations well in advance of your test date and follow all procedures to ensure a smooth testing experience.
By following these tips and strategies, test-takers can feel more confident and prepared on test day and maximize their chances of success. Remember to stay focused, stay positive, and stay motivated – the GED test is a challenging but rewarding opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and skills and achieve your educational and career goals.
