Comprehensive Overview of the GED Exam
This article offers a detailed overview of the GED exam, including its history, core subjects, test administration, costs, accommodations for disabilities, and study tips. It provides essential information for individuals seeking an equivalency credential, emphasizing preparation strategies to improve success rates.
Comprehensive Overview of the GED Exam
The General Educational Development (GED) credential acts as an alternative to a traditional high school diploma for individuals who did not finish high school. Successfully passing the GED demonstrates proficiency in skills comparable to those learned in high school education.
History of the GED
The GED program was established in 1942 by the American Council on Education (ACE) at the request of the U.S. Armed Forces Institute. Initially designed to assess whether military personnel possessed high school-level skills, it served as a pathway to better employment and promotion opportunities. In 2014, the test shifted to a computer-based format to improve accessibility.
Over 20 million individuals have earned their high school equivalency through the GED, which tests five core subjects:
Language Arts: Writing
Language Arts: Reading
Social Studies
Science
Mathematics
These exams are available in English, Spanish, and French, with Braille options for visually impaired candidates. Upon passing, participants receive a state-issued high school equivalency diploma.
The exam assesses essential skills such as communication, analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and information processing. The total test duration is approximately 7.5 hours, requiring a minimum score of 60% to pass.
Test Administration and Locations
The GED is managed by the GED Testing Service and state education authorities, with about 3,500 testing centers worldwide, mainly across the US and Canada.
Pricing Information
The cost varies by state, starting at around $30 per subject. The complete exam costs roughly $150. Candidates can choose to complete all sections at once or separately over time.
Disability Accommodations
Candidates with disabilities can receive special accommodations by submitting a verification form and relevant documentation, such as medical reports. These accommodations include extended testing time, alternative formats, or assistive devices.
Examples of Approved Accommodations
Visual or auditory impairments requiring specific forms
Learning disabilities like dyslexia documented by professionals
Mental health conditions needing tailored support
Behavioral disorders, including ADHD
Assistive tools such as tape recorders, Braille papers, magnifiers, interpreters, or extra time
Key Topics on the GED
The Language Arts writing section emphasizes grammar correction in passages, while reading comprehension involves analysis and answering questions on various texts. Social Studies covers civics, history, and economics. Science includes physics, chemistry, and biology. Math tests focus on arithmetic, algebra, and geometry skills.
Online GED Preparation Tips
Consistent practice builds confidence. Utilizing official practice tests and online resources, including answer keys, helps identify areas for improvement. Repeated practice allows candidates to familiarize themselves with the format, boosting performance and accuracy over time.