The General Educational Development (GED) is a test that measures high school-level knowledge and skills in various subject areas. It was created to provide individuals who did not finish high school with a way to earn a credential that is equivalent to a high school diploma.
The GED is recognized by employers, colleges, and universities as a valid substitute for a high school diploma. It is accepted in all 50 states in the United States, as well as in Canada, and some other countries around the world.
The GED is administered by the American Council on Education (ACE) and is offered at testing centers across the United States and Canada. The test consists of four subject areas: Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
Earning a GED can open up many opportunities for individuals who may have had to drop out of high school due to various reasons such as financial issues, personal problems, or health concerns. It can lead to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and further education.
In the following sections, we will discuss the eligibility requirements, exam structure, subject areas covered, preparation tips, and other important information you need to know about the GED.
Eligibility Requirements for GED
To be eligible to take the GED exam, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 16 years old. If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must also provide proof that you have officially withdrawn from high school.
- Residency: You must be a resident of the state or province where you plan to take the GED exam.
- Testing Restrictions: You cannot take the GED exam if you are currently enrolled in high school or if you have already earned a high school diploma or equivalent credential.
- Financial Ability: You must have the financial means to pay for the exam and any associated fees.
It’s important to note that each state or province may have additional eligibility requirements or restrictions, so it’s essential to check with your local testing center or the GED Testing Service website for the most up-to-date information.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can register for the GED exam at a testing center or online. Once you have registered, you will receive information about the exam structure, subject areas, and any study materials that are available to help you prepare for the test.
Understanding the GED Exam
The GED exam is designed to measure high school-level knowledge and skills in four subject areas: Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. The test is taken on a computer and is available in English and Spanish.
The exam is made up of a combination of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and extended-response questions. The length of the exam varies depending on the subject area, but it typically takes around 7.5 hours to complete.
Each subject area is scored on a scale of 100-200, and a score of 150 or higher is considered passing. The total score for the exam is the average of the four subject area scores.
The GED exam is designed to be challenging and rigorous, but it is also designed to be fair and accessible. Accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities, and alternative formats are available for individuals who may have difficulty with the standard computer-based test.
It’s essential to note that the GED exam is not the same as a high school diploma. While it is widely accepted by employers, colleges, and universities, it may not be accepted by some institutions, and it may not carry the same weight as a traditional high school diploma in some situations.
However, earning a GED can still provide many benefits, including better job opportunities, higher salaries, and further education. It’s important to understand the exam’s structure and subject areas thoroughly to prepare adequately and maximize your chances of success.
Subject Areas Covered in the GED
The GED exam covers four subject areas, each of which is designed to measure high school-level knowledge and skills in a specific area. The subject areas are:
- Language Arts (Reading): This section measures your ability to read and understand written text. The test includes both fiction and nonfiction passages and may also include graphs, charts, and other visual aids.
- Language Arts (Writing): This section measures your ability to write clearly and effectively. The test includes both multiple-choice questions and extended-response questions that require you to write an essay or response to a prompt.
- Mathematics: This section measures your ability to solve problems and use mathematical concepts and formulas. The test includes both multiple-choice questions and short-answer questions that require you to show your work.
- Science: This section measures your knowledge of physical and life sciences. The test includes multiple-choice questions and short-answer questions that may require you to analyze data or read and interpret scientific passages.
- Social Studies: This section measures your knowledge of history, economics, geography, and government. The test includes multiple-choice questions and short-answer questions that may require you to analyze data, read and interpret historical documents, or understand basic economic concepts.
Each subject area is weighted equally on the exam, and you must achieve a passing score in each subject area to earn a GED credential. It’s important to understand the subject areas thoroughly and practice answering questions similar to those on the exam to prepare adequately for the GED.
