The GED test can be considered a passport to a bright future. A GED diploma certifies that you have completed the equivalent of a basic high school education. A high school diploma is necessary as a lot of employers and educational institutions ask for it before appointing you or giving you an admission to any institution. You can also benefit from a GED test if you are in search for a chance to ensure success in education or a career by showing your proficiency level.
There are a lot of people who fail to understand the basics of GED and the process to obtain the diploma. Here are some common questions that people have in their mind regarding GED credentials:
Eligibility:
You need to be at least 19 years of age to sit for a GED test. Some states even allow 16-17 year old students to appear for this test. However, high school graduates are not eligible for a GED diploma. You can appear for this test if:
1) You were home schooled
2) You never attended a high school
3) Left your studies midway
4) You attended an unaccredited high school.
Basis of test:
The next common question related to the GED test is about the subjects that one has to pass in order to obtain the diploma. GED comprises of five tests. Your knowledge of mathematics, social studies, science, reading and writing is measured in the test.
Mathematics: You need to have a basic knowledge of geometry, algebra, data analysis and number operations for the math test. If you know how to use a scientific calculator, it will be an added advantage, as the test allows you to use it.
Writing test: This test comprises of two parts. The first test is based on the mechanics of the usage of English language. It is a multiple-choice test. The second part is an essay test that may be based on your experiences and your background.
Science, Social Studies and Reading: These tests require an ability to read passages and answer the questions related to it. The test measures your ability to evaluate any material.
Passing score:
This is the next big question because your GED diploma is based on the scores you obtain in the test. You need to score at least 60% in each of the five tests. The standard score for each test can range from 200 to 800. You need to score at least 410 in each test so that the average score can reach up to 450. Each question in the test carries one point. If you score less than 410 in a test, then you will have to undergo another test in order to pass.
Place for giving the test:
There are official test centers in all the major cities of America. You cannot give a GED test online.
Preparation for the test:
You can take GED classes in order to prepare for the test. Most communities hold GED classes through community colleges, universities and local high schools. If you are working, or you have transportation problems and it is not possible for you to attend these classes, you can avail GED study-at home programs or online classes. Make sure to choose a genuine online class or program. Preparation books, guides and practice tests are also available in the market, online, local bookstores, library and community colleges.
Rate of success:
One out of three candidates do not pass this test, but if you are a good test taker and possess the ability to grasp things easily, you then have a good chance of passing this test. If you want to pass the test in the first attempt, you will have to invest a substantial amount of time studying for the test.
Common Questions And Answers
The first were developed in 1942 to help war veterans finish their basic education. Today, there are more than 39 million adults in the US who don't have a high school degree. For them, the GED is the best solution to advance in education, a job or career, and to build financial security.
But many people don't understand the GED and the process of how to get it. As a GED instructor, curriculum developer and volunteer online forum moderator with Essential Education Corporation and PassGED, I've answered hundreds of questions from students. It's likely their most common questions and answers will be helpful to people who need more information about the test and the testing process.
What does the GED actually test?
The GED is a set of five tests, which measures knowledge of math, science, social studies, reading and writing. For the science, social studies and reading tests, you need to be able to read a short passage, and then answer questions that show you understand the information that's given.
These tests mostly measure your ability to make evaluations and inferences in the material.
The math test requires knowledge of basic number operations, very basic geometry and algebra and some data analysis. You'll also want to know how to use a scientific calculator, since part of the test allows you to use one.
The writing test has two parts. The first is a multiple-choice test about the mechanics of English usage. The second is an essay test, and you'll write based on your background and experiences.
What's a passing score on the ?
That's the big question, right? The standard scores for the GED tests range from a minimum of 200 to a maximum of 800 on each test. To pass, you must score about 60% on each test, which translates to a score of at least 410 on each GED test to pass it, and an overall average score of 450 for the five-test battery. This means that your score for any individual GED test cannot be below 410, but if you get some that low, you need other GED tests to be well above 410 so that the scores for all five GED tests average out to at least 450.
Each question on the GED test equals one point. You can miss one out of three questions, and still pass the GED.
The essay portion of the test is scored differently, and readers score it based on your writing ability to use language and your word choices.
What's the pass/fail rate?
On average, two out of three people who take the GED Test pass. The better prepared you are for the test, the greater your chances of doing well.
Why do some people pass easily, and other people fail?
Some people seem to pass the GED test the first time they take it, without studying. It's likely that they are good test-takers, and they can remember lots of knowledge from high school. But since one out of three people don't pass, this is the exception to the rule. To pass the first time, most people really need to spend some time getting ready for the test.
How do I increase my chances of passing?
The best advice is to study as much as possible for the GED test. The biggest reason people don't pass it the first time is that they don't prepare well enough. What this means is that you'll probably need to spend time relearning some of the skills and knowledge you've forgotten since high school. But don't panic. If you do a little studying in the right areas, you can pass it.
It's also a good idea to get familiar with the test, so you know what to expect and to increase your test-taking skills. Taking some is a good idea. It will show you how the test works, give you an idea of a score and help you identify areas where you most need to study.
What's the best way to study?
Taking some classes is always a good idea. Most communities have classes through their local high schools, community colleges or universities. But often it's hard to fit them into your schedule, especially if you have job and family obligations. And lots of my students have problems with childcare and transportation. If going to a class is a problem, you can find some GED study-at-home programs and
that allow you to work at your own pace, on your own schedule. Just make sure the online education you choose is the real thing - lots of companies are out there that promise bogus diplomas after simple online tests.
You can also get preparation books, study guides and GED practice tests, which will help you get ready for the GED test. Many are available online, but your local library or community college may offer through loan programs at no charge. You may also find materials in your local bookstore. Chances are, stores that sell used books, or even thrift stores will also have some GED test prep books.
Where do I take the GED test?
The GED tests are given at official test centers in all major cities across the U.S. and Canada. Even though some companies or schools claim you can get your GED online, you can't. The GED is not given online, only at official test centers. International testing is also available.
More Resources
You can find test site information at passGED to help you locate your local official test center, at
Both Kris Koonar & Leonard Williams are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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