GED Test Administration and Delivery

  • To get started you will required to go online and create an account at the GED Testing Service web site.
  • With this online account you will register, schedule tests, pick a test location, pay for the test, and get your test results.
    • ged.com
  • The Test is computer based and has to be taken at an approved GED testing center.
    • Paper testing is available only for approved accommodations.
  • The GED has four test sections that can be taken in any order.
Social Studies
Science
Language Arts (RLA)
Mathematical Reasoning
Time Limit 75 minutes 95 minutes 155 minutes, includes a 10 minute break 120 minutes
Content Areas Civics and Government 50%

U.S. History 20%

Economics 15%

Geography and the World 15%

 Life Science 40%

Physical Science 40%

Earth and Space

Science 20%

 Non-fiction and informational
75%

Fiction and Literature 25%

 Algebraic Problem Solving 55%

Quantitative Problem Solving 45%
Is Writing Required Yes

One extended response item 25 minutes

 Yes

Two short answer questions 10 minutes each

 Yes

One extended response item

45 minutes

 No

Not beyond fill-in-the-blank
Are Calculations Required Yes Yes No Yes
Types of Questions Multiple Choice

Fill-in-the-blank

Drop-down

Drag-and-drop

Hot Spot

Extended Response

 Multiple Choice

Fill-in-the-blank

Drop-down

Drag-and-drop

Hot Spot

Short Answer

 Multiple Choice

Fill-in-the-blank

Drop-down

Drag-and-drop

Extended Response

 Multiple Choice

Fill-in-the-blank

Drop-down

Drag-and-drop

Hot Spot

7 Types of Test Questions

  • Multiple choice: choose from one of four answer options
  • Fill-in-the-blank: type a word, number, or short phrase within a statement or in a response to a question
  • Drag-and-drop: drag small images, numerical expressions, words, or short phrases to drop targets on the computer screen
  • Hot Spot: click on a specific place on an embedded image to select an item based on their characteristics or plot or select points on a graph or map
  • Drop-down: choose from a drop-down menu of 5-8 choices to complete a statement; the selection will then appear as part of the text
  • Short Answer: type a few sentences or a short paragraph in response to text and/or a graph, chart, or image
  • Extended Response: type a writing sample that will be scored on three aspects: 1) Analysis of arguments and use of evidence, 2) development of ideas and organizational structure, and 3) clarity and command of standard English conventions

Computer Skills needed

  • Mouse skills: click, drag-n-drop, scroll
  • Word processing skills: basic keyboarding, cut, copy, paste, insert, backspace, delete, highlight
  • Calculator: online calculator for certain questions (TI-30XS)
  • Online tools that will be available to test takes: directional tools, calculator, calculator reference sheet, formulas sheet, math symbols, flagging for further review, item review screen
  • Navigation skills for the computer based test: previous, next, close, and page tabs

GED Test Scores

  • A minimum score of 145 is necessary to pass each individual subject (200 is the highest score for each test)
  • A total score of 600 or higher is necessary to pass the GED
  • Testers will have 3 opportunities to pass each test within a calendar year
  • Two score level are offered
    • GED Passing Score: at or higher than the minimum needed to demonstrate high school equivalency level skills and abilities (145 – 169 for each section)
    • GED Passing Score with Honors: at or higher than the minimum needed to demonstrate career and college readiness (CCR) (170 – 200 for each section)

    Requirements for testing in Minnesota

    • Age: 19 years old or older, or if 17 – 18 years old with an age waiver
    • Photo ID: current and valid government issued ID such as a MN driver’s license, MN driver’s permit, MN state ID, passport, or military ID
    • Payment and cost: Payments will be made online after you register and create an account. You can pay for each section of the test individually when you schedule your test appointment. Each module is $30 or a total of $120 for all four sections. However, individual testing centers fees may vary.

    Preparation in the ABE Lab at the Monticello WorkForce Center

      • Complete 2 hour orientation
      • Monday – Friday     come in anytime between 8:00 am – 4:00pm
      • Enrollment paperwork
      • 5 hour diagnostic test
        • 1 section on reading
        • 2 sections on math
        • Review scores with teacher and work out study plan

    GED Practice tests

    If you are taking classes, there is a free practice test on the GED® Testing Service website. The table below states the differences of the free practice test and the GED Official Practice test.

    Free Practice Test GED Ready™: The Official Practice Test
    Quarter length of the GED® test. Preview and practice with the content and technology that will be part of the 2014 GED® test Half length of the GED test. Preview and practice with the content and technology that will be part of the 2014 GED® test
    No scoring provided. Review the “answer explanation” on each question to confirm the correct answer and see explanations for why the other options were incorrect Instant scoring gives students a number score when they complete the test
    Use the Companion Guide to understand which standards-based skill is being assessed in each question Gives students an enhanced score report with details about the standards-based skills he or she needs to work on to score higher
    No study plans provided Provides a targeted study plan for students with recommendations from leading preparation book and online course providers
    Is not intended to determine readiness for the GED® test Is the only practice test built to tell a student if they are likely to pass the real thing