Where to Take the GED
The GED high school equivalency diploma is earned by taking a test at a GED Testing Center. It is available year-round at more than 3,400 testing centers throughout the United States and Canada. These testing centers are generally based in:
- High schools
- Community colleges
- Education centers
To find the nearest test center to your location, you just need to input your zip code into the search option on the GED Testing Service website and get a list of local providers.
How to Take the GED Test
Registration for the GED test is available online, but the test itself must be taken in person at a testing center. You may choose to take the exam in its entirety, which takes 7.5 hours to complete, or to take each section of the exam individually.
You can make up to eight attempts to pass the GED . The first three attempts can be made at any time, but a 60-day waiting period is required after taking the test for the third time. The cost to take the GED test varies by state but is typically $30 or less for each section, as of November 2015. A discount is available for retake attempts.
GED Test Overview and Prep Methods
The GED test is a standardized computer-based test that measures your knowledge of four high-school-level subject areas. The test features a variety of question types, including multiple choice, fill in the blank, and short answer. For each section, the scoring range is 100-200 and 150 is the passing score. Learn more about each section and find links to Study.com courses that can help you prepare for the GED test in the table below.
| Section | Description | Section Test Time | Preparation Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Through Language Arts | Reading comprehension and writing skills | 150 minutes | GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Prep Course |
| Social Studies | Civics, economics, history, geography | 90 minutes | GED Social Studies: History, Geography, Economics & Civics |
| Science | Life, earth and space, and physical sciences | 90 minutes | GED Science: Life, Physical and Chemical |
| Mathematical Reasoning | Quantitative and algebraic equations | 115 minutes | GED Math: Algebra, Geometry and Arithmetic |
GED stands for the General Educational Development tests. These exams are taken by individuals who did not earn a high school diploma and cover four main subject areas. The successful completion of these tests provides the same benefits as graduating high school. Read on to learn more.
