The GED test covers five subjects: math, science, social studies, reading, and writing. But don’t let that worry you. For the science, social studies, and reading tests, you are asked to read a short passage and then answer questions that show you understand what you read in the passage. This tests your ability to make evaluations and draw conclusions based on the material provided.

The math test covers basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and very basic geometry and algebra. You’ll also need to know how to use a calculator, as you are allowed to use one for part of the test.

The writing test has two parts. The first part consists of multiple-choice questions about using English correctly. The second part is an essay, which you have 45 minutes to write. The good news is that you don’t have to take all five parts of the test at the same time. You can take it in portions.

Where can I take the GED test?

GED tests are given at official test centers in all major cities across the U.S. and Canada. Many of these test centers are on community college and university campuses. Even though some companies or schools claim you can get your GED online, you can’t. The GED is not given online, only at official test centers.

Official American Council on Education warning against Online GED Testing

The General Educational Development Testing Service™ (GEDTS), a program of the American Council on Education (ACE) and architect of the Tests of General Educational Development (GED Tests), is aware of various entities claiming to offer GED exams online.

Please be advised that the GED credential cannot be earned via the Internet or through correspondence programs. The GED Tests are administered in each U.S. state and insular area, Canadian provinces and territories, the U.S. military, and federal correctional institutions via Official GED Testing Centers ONLY. To locate an Official GED Testing Center near you, please visit http://www.acenet.edu/programs/GEDTS and link to “Locate a GED Testing Center.”

Any services that claim to offer a GED credential through any other means are NOT affiliated with GEDTS or ACE, may be of dubious value, and may deliver a product that is not accepted by employers, colleges and universities, or the military.

What’s the best way to prepare for the GED?

The biggest reason people don’t pass the test the first time is that they don’t prepare well enough. You’ll want to spend some time reviewing some of the skills and knowledge you’ve forgotten since you left high school.

Taking a preparation class is always a good idea. Many communities have classes available through local community education programs. These courses are great because they are very low cost, sometimes as low as $30 or $40. Community colleges and universities also offer preparation courses.

If it’s too hard to fit a regular class time into your schedule, try some GED preparation books, study guides and GED practice tests, which will help you get ready for the test. Many are available online, but your local library or community college may offer GED materials through loan programs at no charge. Taking GED practice tests is a good idea. It will show you how the test works, give you an idea of a score and help you identify areas where you most need to study. It’s also good practice for when you’re ready to go back to school!

How will the GED benefit me?

1. A GED will help you get a job, and even keep it. Employers would rather hire someone who has the basic skills to pass the GED test than someone who does not. Completing the GED also means you have the commitment to successfully finish a difficult task. You’ll have a better chance of getting a work promotion or qualifying for workplace job training programs once you have your GED.

2. You can expect to earn more money over your lifetime with a GED. Research shows that people with a GED make an average of $385,000 more over their lifetime than people who do not have a GED or high-school diploma.

3. Consider the impact of your educational achievement on your family. Children learn by example so you will be setting a good example that will help your children achieve their own financial independence. That alone is worth the effort.