The General Educational Development (GED) test is a valuable pathway to achieving a high school equivalency certificate. For individuals who haven’t completed high school, passing the GED opens doors to further education, better employment opportunities, and increased personal fulfillment. If you’re exploring options for completing your GED, understanding the Online Ged testing process is crucial. This guide provides comprehensive information about the GED test, focusing on online options, costs, subjects, and everything else you need to know to succeed.
Understanding the GED Test
The GED test is composed of four subjects designed to measure skills equivalent to those of a high school graduate. These subjects are:
- Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA): This section assesses your reading comprehension, writing skills, and ability to analyze and interpret information.
- Mathematical Reasoning: This part focuses on your ability to solve mathematical problems, understand mathematical concepts, and apply them to real-world situations.
- Science: This section evaluates your understanding of scientific concepts, your ability to interpret scientific data, and your reasoning skills in a scientific context.
- Social Studies: This part tests your knowledge of civics, government, US history, economics, and geography, along with your ability to analyze social studies concepts.
Passing the GED test in all four subjects earns you a State of Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency, officially recognizing your academic achievements.
Online GED Testing: Flexibility and Accessibility
One of the significant advantages of the GED program is the availability of online proctored testing. This option offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to take the GED exam from the comfort of your home or any secure location with a reliable internet connection.
GED Online Proctoring Policy
The GED offers online proctoring, allowing test-takers to complete their exams remotely. This is a convenient option for those who prefer to test at home or have difficulty reaching a testing center. For detailed information on the specific policies and requirements for online proctoring, you can refer to the GED Online Proctoring Policy Comparison.
Registering for Your Online GED Test
Registering for the GED test, whether you choose to test online or at a test center, is a straightforward process. You can register and schedule your test through the official GED website: www.ged.com. For assistance with registration or any questions, you can also contact GED customer service at 877-392-6433.
For step-by-step guidance, you can consult the GED Registration Instructions. This resource provides a clear walkthrough of the registration process.
Payment Options for Online GED
GED offers various payment methods for your convenience, including:
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Bluebird Card
- ACH (electronic check)
- Voucher (You can learn more about vouchers at: Voucher)
GED Test Details: What to Expect
Understanding the structure and format of the GED test is crucial for effective preparation. Here’s a breakdown of key details:
Number of Tests
The GED battery consists of four individual tests, one for each subject area mentioned earlier.
Delivery Method: Computer-Based and Online Proctoring
The GED test is primarily delivered as a computer-based test (CBT). However, as discussed, online proctored (OP) options are also available, providing flexibility in how you take the exam. You can even combine delivery methods, taking some tests at a center and others online if needed.
Language Options and Accommodations
The GED test is available in both English and Spanish. You can choose to take all subjects in one language or combine languages across different subjects, depending on your preference and strengths.
GED also provides accommodations for test-takers with disabilities. Information about available accommodations and how to request them can be found at GED Accommodations. Notably, most accommodations are also available for online proctored exams, ensuring accessibility for all test-takers.
GED Test Fees: Investing in Your Future
Understanding the costs associated with the GED test is important for budgeting and planning. Here’s a breakdown of the fees:
Total Fee per Battery
The total fee for the complete GED battery (all four subjects) is:
- CBT (Computer-Based Test Center): $145.00
- OP (Online Proctoring): $169.00
These fees typically include both the test center fee (for CBT) and state administrative fees.
Fee per Subject
If you prefer to take one subject at a time, the fee per subject is:
- CBT: $36.25
- OP: $42.25
Again, these per-subject fees include test center and state administrative costs.
Retest Fees and Policies
If you don’t pass a subject on your first attempt, retesting is available. Retest fees and policies are as follows:
-
Retest Fee per Subject:
- CBT: $16.25
- OP: $42.25
-
Retest Policy:
- CBT: After the first three attempts on a subject, there’s a 60-day waiting period before subsequent retakes. This policy resets every January 1st.
- OP: After the first two attempts on a subject taken online, a 60-day waiting period is required before further retakes.
GED Score Requirements: Achieving Passing Marks
To pass the GED test and earn your high school equivalency certificate, you need to meet the minimum score requirements in each subject.
| Subject | GED Test (Score Range 100-200) | Required Score |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Through Language Arts | 100-200 | 145 |
| Mathematics | 100-200 | 145 |
| Science | 100-200 | 145 |
| Social Studies | 100-200 | 145 |
You must achieve a minimum score of 145 in each of the four subjects to pass the GED test. There is no total required score across all subjects; you only need to meet the minimum in each.
Resources for Educators and Test Centers
The GED program also provides extensive resources for educators and test center staff to ensure smooth test administration and effective preparation.
Educator Resources
Educators can find valuable resources to help students prepare for the GED test, including:
- GED Preparation Materials: GED Preparation offers a range of preparation products and tools.
- Educator Services: GED Educators provides support and resources specifically for educators.
- Vouchers: GED Vouchers may be available to help students cover the cost of testing.
- Technical Manual: GED Technical Manual provides detailed technical information about the test.
Test Center Staff Resources
Test center staff can access resources to ensure they are well-informed and prepared to administer the GED test:
- About the Test: GED Staff Information provides essential information about the GED for test center staff.
- Policies & Procedures Manuals: GED test P & P Manual outlines the necessary policies and procedures for administering the GED.
- Customer Service for Test Center Staff: For support and assistance, test center staff can contact customer service at 866-389-3665.
- Approved Calculators: For computer-based testing (CBT), an embedded TI-30XS calculator is available for Math, some Social Studies, and some Science sections. Test-takers can also bring their own hand-held TI-30XS for CBT. For online proctored (OP) exams, only the embedded calculator is permitted.
Conclusion: Your Path to GED Success
The GED test, especially with the availability of online testing, offers a flexible and accessible route to earning your high school equivalency. By understanding the test structure, fees, scoring, and available resources, you can confidently prepare and take the GED, paving the way for your future educational and career goals. Whether you choose to test at a center or online, the GED is a significant step towards achieving your aspirations.
Content Updated: 1/22/2024
