The General Educational Development (GED) is the most widely recognized high school equivalency credential in the United States. Adults who did not complete a traditional high school diploma can earn the GED by passing a series of four subject-area tests, demonstrating the academic knowledge and skills expected of a high school graduate.
The GED is administered by GED Testing Service and recognized by virtually all U.S. colleges, employers, and military branches. More than 20 million people have earned the GED since its introduction, making it a proven pathway to higher education and career advancement.
Who is eligible? Most states allow adults aged 16 or older to take the GED, provided they are not currently enrolled in high school. Age requirements vary slightly by state — some require applicants to be at least 17 or 18 — so check your state's specific rules before registering.
Each subject test can be taken independently, so you can prepare for and pass one subject at a time rather than sitting all four tests on the same day. Take your GED practice test to benchmark your current readiness before scheduling your first official exam.
150 minutes total (two parts). Covers reading comprehension, grammar, and writing. Includes a 45-minute extended response essay. Tests ability to analyze literary and informational texts.
115 minutes. Part 1 (5 items, no calculator) and Part 2 (calculator permitted). Topics include algebra, geometry, functions, and data analysis/statistics.
90 minutes. Covers life science, physical science, and earth/space science. Includes short-answer questions requiring written responses based on text and data passages.
70 minutes. Topics: civics/government, U.S. history, economics, and geography/the world. Questions are scenario-based using primary sources, charts, and graphs.
Each GED subject test is scored on a scale of 100–200 points. The minimum passing score is 145 per subject. You must pass all four subjects to earn your GED credential — but you can retake individual subjects if you score below passing on one or more.
GED scores are broken into three performance levels:
Preparing thoroughly with targeted GED RLA practice tests and subject-specific drills is the most reliable way to hit these benchmarks on test day.
The GED is administered on computer at Pearson VUE test centers. Most states charge approximately $30 per subject test, bringing the total cost for all four subjects to around $120. A handful of states subsidize or fully fund the GED — check your state's adult education agency for local pricing and assistance programs.
To register, create a free account at GED.com, then schedule each subject test at the nearest Pearson VUE center. You can take subjects on different days and in any order. If you do not pass a subject, you may retake it after a waiting period (typically 24 hours for the first retake, 60 days after the third attempt).
Preparing with a qualified instructor can make a real difference in your scores. Learn more about the role of a GED teacher and how professional instruction supports adult learners.
The GED is accepted nationwide, but two other high school equivalency exams also exist: HiSET (offered in 23 states) and TASC (primarily New York). All three credentials carry the same weight with employers and colleges. Check which tests are accepted — and offered — in your state before registering.
Consistent, structured practice is the single biggest predictor of GED success. The good news: high-quality free resources are widely available.
GED Testing Service offers free online practice tests at GED.com that closely mirror the real exam format. These are the best benchmarking tool available because they use the same item types, timing, and scoring bands as official test day.
Khan Academy provides free, self-paced lessons across all four GED subject areas. The math curriculum is especially strong, covering every algebra and geometry topic tested in Mathematical Reasoning.
Most states offer free or low-cost GED preparation classes through community colleges, workforce development agencies, and adult literacy centers. These programs are funded through federal Title II adult education grants and are available to any eligible adult. Contact your state's Department of Education or visit careeronestop.org to find local classes.
For additional structured prep with video explanations, explore the GED RLA practice test with video answers and the GED social studies practice test with video answers — both walk through every question with detailed explanations.
Earning the GED opens doors that require a high school credential. Here is what GED holders can pursue:
For learners preparing to transition into an instructional role, explore resources on becoming a GED exam prep instructor and supporting other adult learners on the same path.