Four tests must be passed to earn GED

Karen Gent

Columnist

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 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! (As I always say, SRAE offers the best deal in town!)

If procrastination has been your game, don’t wait any longer. You really have nothing to lose by enrolling in a class and having your GED® test-readiness assessed. Experienced and dedicated instructors are ready to help you achieve your educational goals, and they do not give up easily. Contact Southwest Regional Adult Education at 866-581-9935 to sign up for a tuition-free face-to-face or distance learning class in your community. Visit our website at https://sites.google.com/russell.k12.va.us/adulted to view a complete class schedule. Southwest Regional Adult Education serves the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell.

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