GED (General Educational Development)
GED Testing Service
Complete guide to passing the GED (General Educational Development) exam on your first attempt.
$30-$40 per subject
~80%
Lifetime
USA/Canada
GED Testing Service
High school equivalency
Are you ready for GED (General Educational Development)?
Loading quiz...
Complete Overview
The General Educational Development (GED) test is a group of four subject tests which, when passed, provide certification that the test taker has American or Canadian high school-level academic skills. The GED is recognized by virtually all U.S. colleges and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma. Originally created in 1942 to help World War II veterans complete their education, the GED has since helped over 20 million people demonstrate their academic abilities. The current GED consists of four subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. Each test can be taken separately, allowing flexibility for test-takers to prepare and pass at their own pace. Passing the GED opens doors to higher education, better job opportunities, and personal accomplishment. The test is available in English, Spanish, and French, and accommodations are available for test-takers with disabilities.
Why Get GED (General Educational Development) Certified?
Recognized equivalent to high school diploma
Accepted by 98% of U.S. colleges and universities
Required by many employers for hiring
Opens doors to career advancement opportunities
Flexible - take tests individually at your own pace
Available in multiple languages with accommodations
Personal achievement and confidence builder
Exam Format & Structure
Duration
7 hours total (4 separate tests)
Questions
Varies by subject (approximately 150 total questions)
Passing Score
145 per subject (College Ready: 165-174, College Ready + Credit: 175+)
Question Types
- Multiple choice
- Fill in the blank
- Drag and drop
- Select an area
- Short answer
- Extended response
Delivery Method
Computer-based at Pearson VUE test centers
Exam Domains & Topics
Quantitative problem solving and algebraic reasoning.
Key Topics to Master:
- Basic math operations
- Geometry
- Basic algebra
- Graphs and functions
- Number operations
- Data analysis
Reading comprehension, writing, and language conventions.
Key Topics to Master:
- Reading comprehension
- Analysis of arguments
- Grammar and language usage
- Extended response essay
- Editing and revision
- Evidence-based writing
Scientific reasoning and understanding of science content.
Key Topics to Master:
- Life science
- Physical science
- Earth and space science
- Scientific method
- Data interpretation
- Scientific reasoning
Reasoning about historical and social issues.
Key Topics to Master:
- U.S. history
- Civics and government
- Economics
- Geography and the world
- Reading and interpreting data
- Critical thinking
Recommended Study Plan
- 1Take GED Ready practice tests in all subjects
- 2Identify strongest and weakest subjects
- 3Create personalized study plan
- 4Gather study materials
- 5Set test date goals
- 1Focus on weakest subject first
- 2Complete chapter reviews in prep book
- 3Practice questions daily
- 4Watch video lessons for difficult concepts
- 5Take subject practice tests
- 1Complete full practice tests
- 2Review all incorrect answers
- 3Practice essay writing (RLA)
- 4Build math formula familiarity
- 5Focus on test-taking strategies
- 1Light review of key concepts
- 2Rest and prepare mentally
- 3Gather required documents for test day
- 4Review test center procedures
- 5Confirm test appointments
Ready to pass GED (General Educational Development)?
Get 500+ practice questions, video walkthroughs, and a pass guarantee.
Best Study Resources
Kaplan GED Test Prep
Prep BookComprehensive review book covering all four subjects with practice tests.
$25-30
GED.com Official Study
Online PlatformOfficial GED testing service's study platform with lessons and practice tests.
$6.99-$30/subject
Khan Academy
Free OnlineFree video lessons and practice covering math, science, and other GED subjects.
Free
GED Ready Practice Tests
Official PracticeOfficial practice tests that predict your likelihood of passing. Score 145+ means ready.
$6.99/test
Essential Education GED Academy
Online CourseOnline program often offered through libraries and adult education centers.
Varies
Peterson's GED Practice Tests
Practice TestsAdditional practice tests for all subjects with detailed answer explanations.
$25-35
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not taking diagnostic tests first
Start with GED Ready tests to identify which subjects need most work. Don't assume you know your weak areas.
Trying to study all subjects at once
Focus on one or two subjects at a time. You can take and pass subjects individually.
Skipping the essay practice (RLA)
The extended response is worth significant points. Practice writing argumentative essays with evidence.
Not using the on-screen calculator properly
The TI-30XS calculator is provided for math. Practice with the same model or the on-screen version.
Ignoring time management
Each section is timed. Practice with time limits and know how long to spend on each question type.
Waiting until you feel 'completely ready'
When GED Ready shows you're likely to pass, schedule the test. Waiting too long can lead to forgetting.
Exam Day Tips
- 1
Get good sleep the night before
- 2
Arrive at test center 30 minutes early
- 3
Bring valid government-issued ID
- 4
You cannot bring personal items into testing room
- 5
Read questions carefully - look for keywords
- 6
Use scratch paper provided for math
- 7
Manage time - don't get stuck on hard questions
- 8
For essays, plan before writing and leave time to review
- 9
Flag difficult questions and return to them if time allows
Career Paths & Salary Ranges
Skilled Trades
Entry into apprenticeships for electrician, plumber, HVAC, and other trades.
$35,000-$70,000
Healthcare Support
Pursue certified nursing assistant, medical assistant, or other healthcare training.
$30,000-$45,000
Military Service
GED meets education requirements for military enlistment in most branches.
$25,000-$50,000+
College Student
Continue to associate's or bachelor's degree programs at colleges and universities.
N/A
Office/Administrative Roles
Entry-level positions in office administration, customer service, and business.
$30,000-$45,000
Prerequisites & Requirements
- At least 16 years old (age requirements vary by state)
- Not currently enrolled in high school
- Some states require residency or completion of preparation program
- Registration through GED.com
- Valid government-issued ID for test day
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the GED cost?
About $30-40 per subject, or $120-160 for all four tests. Costs vary by state and some states offer free or reduced-cost testing.
How hard is the GED?
The GED tests high school-level skills. With proper preparation, most people pass. About 80% of graduating high school seniors would pass the GED.
Can I take one subject at a time?
Yes! You can take subjects separately and in any order. This allows you to focus preparation and spread out costs.
How long are scores valid?
Passed subjects don't expire. You can take remaining subjects at any time. Some states have time limits for completing all four.
What if I fail a subject?
You can retake any subject. After two failed attempts, you must wait 60 days for that subject. Use the time to study your weak areas.
Is the GED the same as a high school diploma?
It's recognized as equivalent for most purposes including college admission and employment. Some specific requirements (certain military roles, some scholarships) may distinguish between them.
Success Stories
“Left high school at 16, got my GED at 32. Used Khan Academy and Kaplan book. Now I'm starting community college!”
James R.
GED Graduate
“English is my second language. The Spanish version helped. Took me 6 months of study but passed all four tests on first try.”
Maria S.
GED Graduate
“Studied while working full time. Took one test per month over 4 months. The flexible scheduling made it possible.”
David T.
GED Graduate
Pass GED (General Educational Development) — Guaranteed
94% pass rate on first attempt
One-time • Lifetime access
One-time payment