GED® Test Information
If you didn’t finish high school, you can still demonstrate that you have the same skills and knowledge as a high school graduate through a test.
This test is called a high school equivalency (HSE) credential. For many years, Ohio only offered the GED® exam, but in 2017, the Ohio Department of Education approved three HSE testing assessment options for adult learners: GED, TASC®, and HiSET®.
The New GED® Test (2014)
As of January 2, 2014, the GED® test is now based on the common core state standards, designed to better prepare people for higher education and the workforce.
The test requires more strategic and abstract thinking, and includes complex problem solving and analysis. It is 100% computerized and costs $144 for the four sections of math, science, social studies, and language arts. Students may choose to take each section separately; each section is $36. Vouchers are available. (Costs updated as of 6/26/24)
Seeds of Literacy redesigned its curriculum to meet these new, rigorous standards. We also created a digital literacy curriculum and added a computer lab to our classroom.
Try a few sample GED test questions:
GED Language Arts 2014
GED Science 2014
GED Math 2014
GED Social Studies 2014
GED Test History
- The GED test began in 1942. At the time, the United States was fighting World War II. Many returning GIs wanted to continue their interrupted education. Taking the GED test was a way for them to attain a high school diploma equivalent. Civilians were able to take the test beginning in 1947.
- Over the last 60 years, the GED test has grown more difficult. This means that there is a lot more information on the test that students might not see in their everyday lives. Many employers now recognize that the GED is just as valuable as a high school diploma.
- In 1988, the GED test was made more difficult, a trend that continued with the 2002 revision.
- To keep it current with high school standards, the GED is given to graduating high school seniors every year. Only 70% are able to pass.
- The test was updated again in 2014 to meet changes to current high school standards. This includes using the Common Core Standards as a basis for student achievement and the most extensive updates since the test was first offered. It is now a completely computer-based test featuring Technology Enhanced Questions, and the reading and writing portions have been combined into a single language arts section.
The GED Test
- GED stands for: General Educational Development.
- The GED test has four sections (Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies). The four test sections do not have to be taken at the same time or in any certain order.
- The GED test can only be taken on computer at certified Pearson Vue Testing Centers
- Each of the four GED sections has approximately 45 questions, however the content and structure of each test section differs dramatically:
- Section 1: Reasoning Through Language Arts – 150 minutes (including a 45 minute Extended Response essay and a 10 minute break)
- Section 2: Mathematical Reasoning – 115 minutes (including 5 questions in which students are not allowed the use of an on-screen calculator)
- Section 3: Social Studies – 70 minutes
- Section 4: Science – 90 minutes (including a short answer essay question which should take approximately 10 minutes to complete)
Benefits of Taking the GED Test
- There are many benefits that result from taking a high school equivalency (HSE) test including significantly better job prospects and the opportunity to enter a community or 4-year college.
- Over the course of a lifetime, an HSE graduate earns an average of $1,000,000 more than someone without an HSE or high school diploma.
- An HSE is a way to increase financial security. Research also shows that once parents get an HSE, they’re more likely to encourage their children to seek educational opportunities and complete educational milestones.