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High school equivalency · Explained
What is a GED?
The GED is a high school equivalency credential: four tests that, once passed, count like a high school diploma for most jobs and colleges. Here is how it works, then a free practice set.
- 4 subject tests
- 145 passes each one
- Free practice set
CollegeCompass360 is an independent education resource. We are not a school, a testing company or a government agency.
The answer
The GED in plain words
GED stands for General Educational Development. It is a set of four tests from GED Testing Service that adults who did not finish high school can take to earn a credential most employers and colleges accept in place of a diploma.
| Test | What it covers | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Reasoning | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry and reading graphs | About 115 minutes |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts | Reading, grammar and a written response | About 150 minutes |
| Science | Life, physical and earth science, read from passages and charts | About 90 minutes |
| Social Studies | Civics, U.S. history, economics and geography | About 70 minutes |
- Each test is scored from 100 to 200. A 145 passes. Scores from 165 to 174 show college readiness, and 175 and up may earn college credit at some schools.
- You take the tests one at a time, in any order, at a test center or online with a proctor where your state allows it.
- Most states require you to be 18, or 16 or 17 with permission, and not enrolled in high school. Each state sets its own rules and fees.
- A GED is not the same as a diploma, but for most jobs, colleges and the military it serves the same purpose.
Times, fees and age rules change. Check the GED Testing Service pages below and your state's policy before you book a test.
GED sample questions · Question 1 of 8
0 right so far
How many subject tests make up the GED?
Bonus · unlocks with your email
Two more quizzes and a printable answer key
- Math practice (5 questions): Averages, exponents, a one-step equation, percents and perimeter.
- Science and social studies (5 questions): Basic chemistry, astronomy, physics and civics.
- A printable answer key for all 18 questions. Only the key prints.
More free study tools
More ways to prepare
Sources
Where the facts come from
Every fact is reworded from these pages. The practice questions are our own and are not from any real exam.
- GED Testing Service, Test Subjects
The four tests and what each covers.
- GED Testing Service, Scores
The 100 to 200 scale and the passing score.
- Math is Fun
Fractions, percents, equations and geometry.
- NASA Science
Basic earth, space and physical science.
- National Archives, The Constitution
The branches and the founding documents.
Questions
Common questions
For most purposes, yes. Employers, colleges and the military generally accept a GED in place of a diploma. A few programs ask for a diploma specifically, so check with the school or employer you have in mind.
It depends on where you start. Some people pass all four tests within a few weeks of study; others take several months. You can take the tests one at a time and retake any you do not pass.
In many states, yes, with an online proctor watching through your webcam. Other states require a test center. GED Testing Service lists the rules for each state.
Yes. Your score on the first set is free and needs no sign-up. An email unlocks the two bonus sets and a printable answer key.
Your next step
Studying for a program? See if grant money may help pay for it.
Answer a few quick questions about the program you want, and we will show you schools and ways to pay. Pell Grants of up to $7,395 a year may be available to students who qualify. Most students receive less, and your FAFSA and the school you attend decide.
Check my optionsCollegeCompass360 is an independent service. We are not a school and not a government agency, and we do not award aid. Whether you qualify, and for how much, is decided by your FAFSA and the school you attend.