What you need to know about GED tests

If you didn’t complete high school, there are some things you might want to know about the GED® tests. First, the following four subject tests must be passed in order to earn a GED® credential: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. You don’t have to take all four tests at once; you can space them out however it suits you and test and at your own pace. Let’s take a closer look at each test.

The Mathematical Reasoning Test covers the following topics: basic math, geometry, basic algebra, graphs and functions. The test has two parts (calculator allowed on second part) with access to a calculator reference sheet and math formulas sheet. The testing time allowance is 115 minutes with a short break between parts.

The Reasoning Through Language Arts Test covers the following topics: reading for meaning, identifying and creating arguments, grammar and language. The test has three sections which includes an extended response (written essay). It takes 150 minutes to take the test with a 10 minute break between parts two and three. The recommended time for the written essay is 45 minutes.

The Social Studies Test covers the following topics: reading for meaning in social studies, analyzing historical events and arguments in social studies, and using numbers and graphs in social studies. Testing time allowance is 70 minutes with no breaks. A calculator is allowed, and there is access to a calculator reference sheet.

The Science Test covers the following topics: reading for meaning in science, designing and interpreting science experiments, and using numbers and graphics in science. Testing time allowance is 90 minutes with no breaks.

Question types for all tests include multiple choice and other types such as drag and drop, fill-in-the-blank, select an area, and drop-down.
The cost of taking each subject test is $30 (a total of $120 for all four tests). The good news is that if you are enrolled in a GED® test preparation class offered through Southwest Regional Adult Education (SRAE) and pass a GED® Ready practice test, your testing fee will be covered by the program. In others words, GED® testing is FREE!

Do you need help with GED® test preparation? Contact Southwest Regional Adult Education at 866-581-9935 for assistance. Experienced and dedicated instructors are ready to help you achieve your educational goals. You can begin your studies with us either by attending a face-to-face class at one of our locations or through distance learning from your home with the support of an instructor. You can even take a GED® Ready practice test from your home to assess your test-readiness. Set a goal to complete your GED® testing in 2020, and get on the right track to a better future.

GED® is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education. Used under license.