GED® test

This overview includes information to help you prepare for the GED® test. You’ll find details about eligibility, registration, test subjects, scoring, retakes, and what to expect when you schedule your exam.

 

Exam Background and Purpose

The GED® test is a high school equivalency exam for people who did not complete a traditional high school diploma. Passing the GED can help you qualify for college, job opportunities, career training programs, and other paths that require proof of high school-level academic skills.

GED Test Overview infographic describing the four subject tests: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies, including time limits and skills measured.

Online GED Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online GED Prep Course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The GED Course includes:

  • Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
  • 1,250+ GED Practice Questions
  • More than 300 Digital Flashcards
  • Over 340 Instructional Videos
  • Money-back Guarantee
  • Free Mobile Access
  • and More!

The GED Prep Course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their GED exam. Click below to check it out!


Start GED Prep with Mometrix

Costs and Payment Options

The cost of the GED® test varies by state. In many states, you can pay for one subject test at a time instead of paying for all four subjects at once. Because prices, retake fees, and state policies can change, check your state’s GED testing requirements before you register.

Registration/Times/Locations

You can register for the GED® test through the official GED website. During registration, you will create or log in to your GED account, choose which subject test you want to take, select a test center or online testing option if available, pick a date and time, and pay for the test online.

You can take the GED at an official test center. In some states, you may also be able to take the test online with a proctor. There are certain criteria for online tests, so make sure to go through your GED account properly first.
Chart explaining GED test score ranges: 100-144 is below passing, 145-164 is passing, 165-174 is college ready, 175-200 is college ready + credit; 145+ needed in all four subjects.

Retaking the GED Test

If you do not pass one GED® subject test, you only need to retake that subject. You do not have to retake all four subjects.

Retake rules vary by state and by whether you test in person or online. In many cases, you can retake a subject without a long waiting period for your first few attempts, but a waiting period may apply after multiple unsuccessful attempts. Check your state’s GED retake policy before scheduling another test.

How Can I Prepare for the GED Test?

Preparing for the GED is easier when you use the right study tools. A study guide can help you review the skills tested on each subject, flashcards can reinforce important concepts, and practice tests can help you identify areas that need more work. Below, you’ll find GED prep resources to help you study efficiently and build confidence before test day.

 

Top Study Guides:

High-Quality Flashcards:

Best Online Course:

Skill Building Exercises

English
Basic Grammar
Spelling
Punctuation and Capitalization
Reading Comprehension

Math
Algebra 1 Practice Questions
Geometry
Graphs
Measurements

Science
Biology Questions
Chemistry Questions

 

 

Last Updated: June 18, 2026