⚡ GED Quick Facts
| Test Length | ~7 hours total (4 subjects, taken separately) |
|---|---|
| Sections | Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, Science |
| Scoring | 100–200 per subject (145 to pass) |
| Cost | $30–$40 per subject ($120–$160 total, varies by state) |
| Format | Computer-based at authorized test centers |
| Who Takes It | Adults seeking a high school equivalency credential |
What is the GED?
The GED (General Educational Development) test is your path to a high school equivalency diploma. Here's what nobody tells you: you don't have to take all four subjects at once. You can take them one at a time, at your own pace, and you only need to pass each one once. If you fail a subject, you can retake just that one. The test is entirely computer-based and available year-round at authorized Pearson VUE testing centers.
Test Format & Sections
Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes)
Basic math, algebra, geometry, and some data analysis. A calculator (TI-30XS) is available for most questions. You need to be comfortable with word problems — most questions are scenario-based.
Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes)
Reading comprehension, grammar, and one extended response (essay). You'll read passages and answer questions, plus write a 45-minute essay analyzing arguments in provided texts.
Social Studies (70 minutes)
Civics and government, U.S. history, economics, and geography. Passage-based questions — you don't need to memorize dates, but you do need to interpret documents and data.
Science (90 minutes)
Life science, physical science, and earth/space science. Like Social Studies, it's mostly about reading and interpreting information, not memorizing facts.
Scoring
Each subject scored 100–200. You need 145 per subject to pass (equivalent to 'high school level'). Score 165–174 and you earn 'GED College Ready' status. Score 175+ and you get 'GED College Ready + Credit' — some colleges award actual credit hours for high scores.
📖 Best GED Prep Books 2025–2026
We reviewed the top-rated prep books and picked the ones actually worth your money. No sponsored picks.
View on Amazon →How Long Should You Study?
Depends on where you're starting. If you have some high school education, 2–4 months of focused study per subject. If it's been a long time since you were in school, plan for 4–8 months total. Take subjects one at a time — start with your strongest.
Top Study Tips
- Take the free GED Ready practice test first. It predicts whether you'll pass with 90%+ accuracy. Don't pay for the real test until you pass the practice one.
- Start with your strongest subject. An early win builds confidence for the harder ones.
- The RLA essay is worth practicing. It's not creative writing — you need to compare two arguments and explain which is better supported. Structure matters.
- Math is the #1 subject people fail. Give it extra study time, especially algebra and word problems.
Free Practice Resources
- GED.com — Official registration, practice tests, and study materials
- GED Ready Practice Test — Free partial practice; full practice is $6 per subject
- Khan Academy — Free math, science, and reading practice covering GED topics
Best GED Prep Books
We reviewed the top-rated GED prep books and picked the ones that are actually worth your money. No sponsored recommendations — just honest reviews based on content quality, practice questions, and real student feedback.
📖 Best GED Prep Books 2025–2026
We reviewed the top-rated prep books and picked the ones actually worth your money. No sponsored picks.
View on Amazon →