Once you decide to get your GED, the next question is how to prepare. Most people end up choosing between two options: a GED prep course or a GED tutor. Both can get you to a passing score, but they work very differently. This guide compares GED prep courses and GED tutors side by side so you can pick the one that fits how you learn, how much time you have, and where you're starting from.
What Are GED Prep Courses?
A GED prep course is a structured program that walks you through all four GED subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. Everyone in the course follows the same lessons in the same order. GED prep courses usually come in three formats:
Self-paced online courses: video lessons, quizzes, and practice tests you work through on your own time.
Live online classes: scheduled group sessions with an instructor, held over video.
In-person GED classes: often run by adult education centers, libraries, or community colleges, and sometimes free.
What Does a GED Tutor Do?
A GED tutor works with you one-on-one. Instead of following a fixed syllabus, a good GED tutor starts by finding out what you already know, then focuses only on the skills you're missing. Sessions move at your speed, and you can ask questions the moment you get stuck. If you're unsure whether that level of support is worth it for you, our guide on whether you need a GED tutor walks through the signs to look for.
GED Prep Courses vs. a GED Tutor at a Glance
GED prep course | GED tutor | |
|---|---|---|
Pace | Set by the course or class | Set by you and your tutor |
What you study | Everything, in a fixed order | Only the skills you're missing |
Help when you're stuck | Limited, often by email or forum | Immediate, in the session |
Schedule | Anytime (self-paced) or fixed class times | Booked around your week |
Cost | Usually lower; some classes are free | Usually higher per hour |
Best for | Self-motivated learners who need a full review | Learners with specific gaps or who want accountability |
When a GED Prep Course Is Enough
A GED prep course is often the right choice if you:
Left school recently and mainly need a refresher across all four subjects.
Can stick to a study routine without someone checking in on you.
Are scoring close to passing on practice tests already.
Need to keep costs as low as possible.
When You Should Get a GED Tutor
A GED tutor is usually worth it if you:
Have been out of school for years and aren't sure where to start.
Keep getting stuck on one subject. Math is the most common one; a dedicated GED math tutor can fix gaps that a course just repeats.
Have failed a GED subject test before and need a different approach.
Started a prep course but stopped because nobody was keeping you on track.
The Middle Ground: Combine Both
You don't have to pick only one. Many students use a GED prep course for most of their studying and add a tutor only for the subject that's holding them back. Small-group GED classes are another middle option: you get a live instructor and a set schedule for less than one-on-one tutoring.
Before paying for anything, take a practice test in each subject. Your scores show whether you need a full course, targeted tutoring in one area, or just a few weeks of review.
How to Choose a GED Prep Course or Tutor
Whichever route you take, check for these before you commit:
It covers the current GED test. Lessons and practice questions should match all four subjects as they're tested today.
It starts with an assessment. Good GED prep shows you where you stand first, so you don't waste time on what you already know.
It includes timed practice tests. These tell you when you're ready to book the real test. Our GED test strategies guide explains how to use them.
It fits your schedule. If you work or have kids, see how to study for the GED on a tight schedule.
You can get help when you're stuck. A course with no way to ask questions is where most students stall.
You've checked the free options. Before you pay, look at free and low-cost GED tutoring in your area.
Not Sure Which One You Need?
The fastest way to decide is to find out where you stand. Our online GED tutoring starts with a free assessment that shows which subjects you're ready for and which need work. From there, we'll recommend a tutor, a group class, or self-study, whichever gets you to passing the GED fastest.
Want help preparing for your test?
Start with a free assessment. We'll show you which subjects need work and recommend the right tutoring for you.