Information about the GED® Test
What is a GED® Credential?
The initials GED® stand for General Educational Development. The GED® test was created in 1942 during World War II. Originally, it was meant to allow veterans to quickly get a credential that would be equivalent to a high school diploma so that they could go on to college. Later, it was available to all adults.
The GED® Test measures how well someone has mastered the skills and general knowledge that are acquired in a four-year high school education. The test does not expect someone to remember numerous details, definitions, or facts. You are expected to demonstrate the ability to think about a variety of issues.
The GED® Test has changed periodically to keep up with the knowledge and skills needed in our society. The newest revision to the GED® begins in January of 2014 and will be aligned with the Common Core standards.
You must have a minimum of a 9th grade reading level. This means that you have the ability to read and understand newspapers, forms, and letters. You must also have the ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide by hand. Developing strong reading and thinking skills are the keys to succeeding on these tests. Regular study is also needed to earn your GED® credential.
What subjects are included on the GED® Test?
REASONING THROUGH LANGUAGE ARTS:
You will read passages of several sentences or real-life documents like resumes, reports, e-mails. In each you will be asked to correct grammar, sentence construction, spelling or other common writing mistakes. Your will also be expected to type a response to "Extended Response" and "Short Answr" type questions. The test is 150 minutes long.
SOCIAL STUDIES: In this test you will answer Economics, Geography, Civics and Government, and United States and World History questions. You will also interpret maps, charts, political cartoons, speeches, articles, and photographs. Questions will also come from the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and landmark Supreme Court decisions. The test is 90 minutes long.
SCIENCE: In this test you will answer Life Science, Earth and Space Science and Physical Science questions. You will be asked questions requiring critical thinking and problem solving skills. The test 90 minutes long.
MATH:
A basic knowledge of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division is required. Questions relating to Geometry, Algebra, data analysis, number operations, and problem solving will be included. The test is 115 minutes long.
Who can take the GED® Test?
Check with your local GED® Test Center. Each state/province has different requirements for age and residency.
How much does the GED® Test cost?
Check with your local GED Test Center. Each state/province may charge different rates and each Test Center may have different policies about payment.
How long will it take me to earn a GED® credential?
Since everyone is different, there is no single answer to this question. A lot depends on how long you stayed in school, your reading and math levels, your ability to think critically, and your willingness to study. We do know that people who study regularly, follow directions, and work hard may earn their GED® credential more quickly than those who do not. We recommend studying at least 2 hours a day, 5 days a week.
What kind of scores do I need to earn my GED® credential?
To earn your GED® credential, you will need a minimum score of 150 on each subject test.
When will I know my scores?
The GED® is taken via computer. So, you will know your test score right away.
How do I know if I am ready to take a test?
You are ready to take a test if you have scored above your state's/province's minimum standard score for passing. However, it is a good idea to score a little bit more than you need on a practice test before you take the official test. If you are not sure if you're ready to take a test, ask us and we will help you decide.
Leng@dcoms.com DCS GED® Prep Online Administration if you have any questions about the test. We will do our best to help.