For a lot of people, traditional high school just isn’t the vibe. Maybe life got in the way, or maybe sitting in a classroom for years just wasn’t the right fit. That’s where the General Educational Development (GED) test steps in—it’s a second shot at earning those high school credentials and leveling up your opportunities.
But let’s be real—it’s more than just a test. It’s a gateway to better education, better jobs, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking to qualify for a new career, apply to college, or just want that diploma-equivalent under your belt, the GED can be your ticket to something bigger.
If you’re thinking about taking the GED, here’s everything you need to know to get started.
What Is the GED?
The GED is a series of four subject tests designed to measure your high school-level knowledge and skills. Each section focuses on core subjects that are important for college and work-life. Here’s the breakdown:
Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)
Think reading comprehension, grammar, and essay writing. If you’ve ever debated something online, you’re already ahead! But here’s the thing—if you previously passed just the reading or writing portion of the GED (between 2002-2013) or the TASC Test, you’ll still need to take the entire RLA section to meet the requirements. That’s because the test now combines both reading and writing into one.
Mathematical Reasoning
Don’t let the name scare you off—it’s mostly basic algebra and geometry, with some word problems to keep things interesting. You won’t need to memorize a bunch of formulas, but you will need to know how to apply math to real-world situations.
Science
This section covers the basics of biology, chemistry, Earth science, and physics. No, you won’t need to recite the periodic table from memory, but you will need to understand scientific concepts and how to analyze data.
Social Studies
A mix of history, civics, geography, and economics. Basically, understanding how the world works and how past events shape the present.
Pass all four tests, and boom—you’ve got yourself a GED certificate, which is accepted as a high school diploma equivalent in most places.
Where to Find GED Prep Programs
If you’re serious about passing, preparation is key. The good news? There are adult education prep programs available to help you get ready.
The easiest way to find one? Use the GED Registration and Scheduling system on the official GED website. This directory will connect you with local prep courses and online resources so you can study in a way that fits your schedule.
How Long Does the GED Test Take?
The full GED test takes about 7.5 hours to complete, covering all four subjects. But don’t worry—you don’t have to take them all in one sitting! You can schedule each test separately, which makes it way more manageable.
How to Register and Schedule the GED Test
Taking the GED is a big step, but registering is pretty simple. Here’s how:
Step 1: Create Your Account
Head over to the official GED website and sign up. This is where you’ll manage everything—registering, scheduling, and even checking your scores.
Step 2: Choose Your Test Format
Select the computer-based testing option (which, by the way, gives you your scores immediately after completing each test).
Step 3: Schedule Your Exam
Pick a date, time, and location that works for you. Just make sure you meet the age and residency requirements in your state before booking.
Pro Tips:
– Check requirements (age, residency, and any prep course mandates in your state).
– Have your ID ready—you’ll need it on test day.
– Be prepared to pay any applicable test fees during registration.
And just like that, you’re one step closer to getting your GED!
Does GED Test Prep Make a Difference?
Short answer: Yes, 100%.
Studies show that people who take GED prep courses are way more likely to pass than those who don’t. Why? Because these programs break down the test format, help you brush up on key skills, and give you practice tests to boost your confidence.
So if you’re serious about passing, investing in a good test prep program is a no-brainer.
Can You Retake the GED Test?
If You Fail a Subject Test:
Yes! You can retake any section you didn’t pass, but there’s a catch—you can only attempt the same test three times per calendar year. If you hit that limit, you’ll need to wait 60 days before trying again.
If You Pass but Want a Higher Score:
Unfortunately, you can’t retake a test just to improve your score. Once you pass, it’s locked in. But if you’re looking to keep learning, consider taking extra courses to build on your knowledge!
GED in New York: What You Should Know
If you’re in New York State, here’s some important info:
– As of January 2022, the GED replaced the TASC Test as the state’s official high school equivalency exam.
– New York State covers the cost for eligible residents, so if you qualify, you won’t have to pay out-of-pocket.
– If you passed any GED subtests (2002-2013) or TASC exams (2013-2021), those scores can still count toward your HSE diploma. Just submit your previous test scores when applying.
What If You Previously Passed Only Reading or Writing?
If you passed only the reading or writing portion of the GED (from 2002-2013) or the TASC Test, you’ll need to take the entire RLA (Reasoning Through Language Arts) section again. The test format has changed, and now reading and writing are combined into one test.
The GED: More Than Just a Test
Earning your GED isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about taking control of your future. Whether you’re balancing a job, raising a family, or just ready to make a change, this test can be your way to level up.
Thousands of people from all walks of life pass the GED every year, proving that it’s never too late to start fresh. And if you’re looking for extra support, check out How to Study for the GED Test. It’s packed with study tips, test strategies, and resources to help you ace the exam.
So go for it—trust yourself, put in the work, and let the GED be your launchpad to something bigger. You’ve got this! 🚀
