GED Test Guide: Subjects, Scoring, Cost and How to Pass on Your First Try

The GED (General Educational Development) is a series of four subject tests that, once passed, earn you a high school equivalency credential. It shows you have the same knowledge as a traditional high school graduate. The GED was developed by the American Council on Education in the 1940s to help veterans who joined the military without finishing high school.

The GED test is made up of four subject tests. The full exam takes just over seven hours in total, with question types including multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, short answer, and essay.

The GED math test includes about 46 questions split into two parts: a non-calculator section (~5 questions) and a calculator-permitted section (~41 questions), over 115 minutes total. Topics break down into Quantitative Problem Solving (45%) — basic math, geometry, measurements, and data interpretation — and Algebraic Problem Solving (55%) — expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, and graphing. You're provided a calculator and a formula sheet. If math is the subject holding you back, see our GED math tutoring.

A high school diploma means you attended and passed all required classes in a traditional high school setting — usually over four years. A GED is a high school equivalency credential earned by passing four standardized tests, and for most people, preparation takes less than a year. Most colleges and employers treat them as equivalent — nearly 100% of U.S. schools accept the GED — and GED graduates earn roughly $8,500 more per year than those without either credential.

You need a minimum score of 145 on each of the four subject tests. Scores range from 100 to 200. Higher scores earn a GED College-Ready designation, which may help you skip other standardized tests for college admission. Not sure where you stand? Try our free GED practice tests and score checker.

Costs vary by state, usually about $30 to $46 per subject, or roughly $120–$184 for all four tests. In Florida, for example, it's $32 per subject, totaling $128. Online testing often costs a little more, and many states offer discounted retakes. Check your state's current price on GED.com.

The GED is for adults who haven't graduated high school. In most states, you can take it any time after age 16, with extra requirements for younger test-takers. There are no academic prerequisites.

Most adults get their GED in about 1 to 6 months. If you're already close to passing, it can take a few weeks; if you've been out of school for years, plan on a few months of steady study. The four tests take just over seven hours in total, and you can take them one subject at a time.