Essential Information About the GED Examination

June. 20,2025

Learn everything about the GED exam, including test structure, eligibility, languages, and preparation tips. Discover how the GED can provide a high school equivalency credential, with details on registration, test formats, fees, and accessibility options. Ideal for individuals seeking an alternative to traditional high school graduation, the GED opens doors to new educational and career opportunities.

Essential Information About the GED Examination

Essential Information About the GED Examination

The General Educational Development (GED) is a testing program developed through a collaboration between the North American Council and Pearson. It assesses knowledge across four core areas. Successfully passing the GED grants certification equivalent to a high school diploma, demonstrating academic proficiency aligned with US and Canadian standards. Although often misunderstood as "general education degree" or "diploma," the acronym GED officially stands for General Educational Development. The test evaluates skills in science, mathematics, social studies, reading, and writing.

The GED certification provides a pathway for individuals who did not complete high school to earn equivalent credentials. Tests are accessible in English, Spanish, and French (Canada), with options for large print, audio, and braille for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, military personnel and international applicants can take the exam at authorized Pearson Vue testing centers. The minimum age requirement varies by state, typically 16 or 18.

While study guides and practice tests are available online, the actual examinations are held at approved centers and are not administered online. The exam format includes multiple choice, drag-and-drop, hotspot, fill-in-the-blanks, and written responses, covering topics such as mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts. Test durations differ per subject, with math and reasoning sections lasting approximately two and a half hours each, and science and social studies around an hour and ten minutes. Test fees vary by state, generally costing around thirty dollars, with options for discounted retakes. For detailed fee information, visit the official GED website.


GED certification as high school equivalency

Available in multiple languages and formats

Tests conducted at authorized centers, not online

Various subject areas with specific time allocations

Affordable testing fees with retake discounts


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