• The Evolution of the GED: Eight Decades of Student Success

    By GED Author

    The GED® has changed a lot over the years! Discover how the world’s leading high school credential program has grown during the past eight decades…and still going strong to bring brighter futures to students everywhere.

    Serving the brave in the land of the free

    It all started during World War II when the GED credential was created to make it easier for veterans to pick up where they left off with their plans for education, careers, and personal goals. In 1942, the United States Armed Forces Institute (USAFI) launched the GED. Two years later, the GED test took on a more structured form thanks to the work of Everett Franklin Lindquist, who led testing programs at the University of Iowa at the time. The original GED test was modeled after the Iowa Test of Basic Skills.

    Soon enough, the American Council on Education® (ACE) was born, with the mission to “mobilize the higher education community to shape effective public policy and foster innovative, high-quality practice.” Hundreds of young soldiers were able to get their high school credentials and go on to college and jobs after fighting for the nation’s freedom.

    Opening doors for all Americans—and beyond borders

    A few years later, in the 1950’s, civilians could also participate in the GED program. That was a game-changer! Adults who were not able to complete a traditional high school education finally had a way to earn their diploma and proceed to accomplish further educational and career objectives. Shortly thereafter, GED testing was also allowed in Federal correctional and health institutions.

    The GED became so popular among civilians that the organization adjusted its name to encompass a broad variety of students. As of 1963, Veteran’s Testing Service (VTS) was officially known as GED Testing Service. The new name stuck all the way to today! In 1969, Canada joined the pack with Nova Scotia as the first province to offer GED testing to civilians.

    Aligning the test with everyday life

    So now we know all about how the GED Testing Service came to be. What about the test itself? It has also gone through several improvements over the years.

    The first test series (1942-1978) had five subjects and took 10 hours!

    • Test 1: Correctness and Effectiveness of Expression
    • Test 2: Interpretation of Reading Materials in the Social Studies
    • Test 3: Interpretation of Reading Materials in the Natural Sciences
    • Test 4: Interpretation of Literacy Materials
    • Test 5: General Mathematical Ability

    The second test series (1978-1987) still contained five subjects but the titles were simplified to:

    • Test 1: The Writing Skills Test
    • Test 2: The Social Studies Test
    • Test 3: The Science Test
    • Test 4: The Reading Skills Test
    • Test 5: The Mathematics Test

    After that, the GED test was updated to include a required writing sample, more critical thinking, and contexts that related better to daily life. In 2002 the test subjects were streamlined to:

    • Test 1: Language Arts – Writing
    • Test 2: Social Studies
    • Test 3: Science
    • Test 4: Language Arts – Reading
    • Test 5: Mathematics

    Since 2014, the latest version consists of four subjects:

    • Test 1: Mathematical Reasoning
    • Test 2: Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)
    • Test 3: Science
    • Test 4: Social Studies

    Prioritizing student-centric innovation

    The 2000s paved the way for innovation across the GED program. Computer-based testing was introduced, which made taking and grading the test a much more efficient process. Test development was reoriented to reflect a shift in requirements that academic standards be more closely aligned with college- and career-readiness. Also, students could take advantage of College-Ready and College-Ready Plus Creditperformance levels – along with a recommendation of up to 10 credit hours of credit for the highest test scores. Talk about opening doors to higher education!

    In the last decade, the GED Testing Service team has been more dedicated to students than ever. Thanks to multiple interactive prep options, students can take direct ownership of their GED journey. You’ve probably heard of or used tools such as:

    If you or someone you know got the GED credential recently through an employer, a non-profit or a health plan, it was likely through GEDWorks™ – a new benefit option for students to study for and take the GED test all the way to passing at no cost.

    Getting ready for tomorrow

    The rest is making history together! What’s next for GED in 2023? Get the latest updates in your inbox! Sign up for a free student account to begin your GED journey and we’ll keep you posted.

    We also have a dedicated area for educators and admins with plenty of resources and news.

    Curious to see the key dates in action? Watch our video: The Evolution of the GED

  • 5 Tips to Overcome Failure and Drive Positive Thinking

    By GED Author

    Ever heard the saying, “when life gives you lemons, sugar, water and ice, make lemonade”? Well, neither has anyone else. You’ve likely heard the phrase without sugar, water, and ice. But why is that? Aren’t those ingredients essential to make good lemonade and be mentioned? It is an understood concept: you can’t make delicious lemonade without the other ingredients. Similarly, you can’t achieve success without hardship. The path to success is often overlooked and seen as simple; failure and struggle before success can go unnoticed from an outsider’s perspective. To ensure future success, it’s vital to understand how to cope with failure and overcome negative thinking.

    Accept How you are Feeling

    You view the world through your mental attitude. If that attitude is mostly negative, it can impact everything. Failure is linked with feelings and emotions such as sadness, anxiety, stress, anger, etc. Accepting how you feel can help form a healthy coping mechanism which, in turn, can make you work harder to find different and better solutions to your problems in the future.

    Learn From your Failures

    Learning from your failures is the single most important thing you can do to cope positively from failure. Allow yourself to accept that one path has been proven ineffective and that a redirection is in order. Understanding what you did wrong can help you be mentally more prepared and establish specific goals for the future. Fall down seven times, get up eight with confidence and the experience gained from previous losses!

    Find Inspiration

    Finding inspiration after a failure can be hard, and rightfully so. Negative thoughts drain you of energy and keep you from being in the present moment. Many have found help in reading a good book, spending time with loved ones, going on a trip, starting a new hobby, and practicing mindfulness.

  • GED vs. High School Diploma: What’s the Difference?

    By GED Author

    A high school diploma signifies high school graduation. It shows you attended and passed all the required classes in a traditional high school setting.

    The GED credential is a high school equivalency diploma. It shows you passed four high school equivalency tests, demonstrating you have the same knowledge as a traditional high school graduate.

    Perhaps the time requirement is the key difference in the GED vs. high school diploma question. Traditional high school students typically need four years to complete classes and graduate. The GED is a 7-hour test. For most people, preparing for it takes less than a year. In most states, you can take the GED tests any time after age 16.

    As you can see, the difference between a diploma and a GED is not significant. Both allow students to join the workforce, launch a career, or attend college.

    Is a GED Equivalent to a Diploma?

    Most colleges and employers see the GED and a high school diploma as the same. Just under 100% of U.S. schools accept the GED, including community colleges, private secondary or technical institutes, and universities.

    Coupling your GED with a decent ACT or SAT score will improve your chances of getting accepted into a top school. Or, you can bypass other standardized tests with a GED College-Ready score, awarded to those who earn a high score on their GED tests.

    Because the GED is equivalent to a high school diploma, in addition to using it to register for college, you can also use it to apply for a job.

    Many employers view these achievements equally when it comes to a GED vs. a high school diploma, and getting a GED can lead to a higher salary. Many GED graduates can make around $8,500 more annually than those without a GED or diploma.

    Which Option Is Best for You?

    What’s the difference between a high school diploma vs. GED? And which should you pursue? Both choices open up possibilities for a higher salary, additional education, and professional advancement.

    High school diplomas can provide excellent preparation for an entry-level job or college studies. It’s an ideal option for those with the time and whose personal life situations make it possible to attend.

    However, some students may need to leave high school for many reasons, including family obligations. In those instances, a GED may be the best option.

    What Is a GED?

    The General Educational Development Test consists of four subject tests that, once passed, earn you a high school equivalency credential. The four subjects are language arts, math, social studies, and science.

    Does this sound familiar? If so, it’s because they’re subjects commonly taught in high school. You will have earned your credential after you successfully pass these four exams. What does this do? It proves you have a grade 12 education—even without a traditional diploma.

    How Did the GED Get Started?

    The American Council on Education developed the GED in the 1940s to help veterans who had joined the military without finishing high school. Passing the test allowed them access to colleges or jobs requiring a high school diploma. In the 80 years since, millions of Americans have earned their GEDs, including many celebrities.

    Explore the Benefits of Earning Your GED

    Now that you know the difference between a GED vs. diploma, which option is right for you?

    GED.com makes it easy to work toward earning your GED with online resources, study guides, progress goals, practice tests, and more. Learn more about the benefits of earning your GED and how to get your GED as an adult today.

  • Is a GED Worth It? How to Find the Motivation to Get Your GED

    By GED Author

    Considering all the time and effort it takes to get, is a GED worth it in the end? The answer is a resounding yes! You just need some tips on how to stay motivated to study. After you pass the four sections and walk away with a high school equivalency diploma, you’ll enjoy more professional opportunities and benefits. It’s never too late to start a successful next chapter in your life.

    Why Is a GED Worth It?

    Federal agencies, corporate management, universities, and colleges all accept a GED for their high school diploma education requirement. This is usually the minimum requirement for most jobs and for admission to higher education.

    More Educational and Career Opportunities

    With a GED, you can qualify for a higher-paying position or get into a college classroom since you’ve demonstrated the knowledge you need to compete with high school graduates. As a result, you’ll find more options for career and education advancement.

    This is an excellent option for anyone who didn’t, or currently can’t, complete high school for any reason. Even with the busy schedule of work and family responsibilities, you can take advantage of flexible online or in-person GED programs that allow you to study and prepare at a pace that works best for you.

    How to Motivate Yourself to Study

    Check out the ways some recent graduates stayed motivated while studying for a GED.

    Try these additional tips for motivation on this exciting new journey.

    1. Determine Your Goals

    What do you want in your life? Consider specific actions you want to take in the next six months, year, and five years. What are your educational, professional, and personal goals? Make these realistic and write them down. Seeing personal, academic, and professional goals in writing is often the first step toward obtaining them.

    2. Prioritize These Goals

    The busyness of everyday life can distract you from where you want to go. Make your goals a priority by knowing why they matter to you. Do you want to inspire your children? Be the first person in your family to graduate college?

    Why you’re doing this is important, so make sure you remind yourself every day. Put up post-its around the house with the reasons written down. Or spend five minutes every morning in deep meditation about what you’re working toward and why. This will help renew your motivation to study, and you’ll be better able to resist distractions like television, emails, social media, or anything that doesn’t serve you in this journey.

    3. Create a Quality Support System

    Getting a GED is much easier if you surround yourself with positive people who can help. Tell your family and friends about your plan to study and take this important exam. They might be able to help with family or child care.

    Talk to your employers. Some businesses provide financial support or incentives. There might even be promotions or raises in your future once you pass.

    4. Start with Small Steps

    Take big goals and break them into stages or small steps. Sometimes when goals seem overwhelming, it helps to think, “What should I do first? Then second? Then what’s my third step in this journey?” It makes the seemingly impossible more doable.

    You might also consider writing to-do lists. Do something each day to get from Point A to Point B. This keeps you focused on the end goal. Then, recognize those achievements. You’re making progress!

    5. Reward Yourself

    Think of ways to treat yourself whenever you accomplish a significant step toward your goal. Maybe that means being rewarded with a special dessert or a well-deserved break. Throwing mini celebrations along the way is one motivation tip that helps you enjoy the entire process.

    A Word from Recent Graduates

    Some recent GED students and graduates shared what helped motivate them through their journey. Do any of their stories resonate with you?

    What inspired me the most to go back to school to get my GED would’ve been my husband and my kids. Without my husband pushing me, I probably wouldn’t have done it. I came from a family that had really hard times and poverty. No one in my family had graduated, and I wanted to be that first person, and I didn’t think I could do it given the circumstances and the life I had.” Brittni W.

    I got my GED in January of 2022 this year, and what inspired me to get my GED was my kids, my four kids. I wanted to better myself, as well as a parent.” Shanika S.

    What motivated me to obtain my GED was the inability to move ahead in the company where I worked for 12 years. I was always overlooked, no matter how hard I worked, and I realized it wasn’t the company but my education.” Michael D.

    My son motivated me to get my GED because I wanted to finish my education to get a better job to provide for my son so he can have a better life than I had.” Chrisanti G.

    I was motivated to write my GED exam because of its flexibility. It could fit into my schedule perfectly. Also, because of how the GED certificate is widely accepted around the globe.” David Y.

    “I’m 22 from College Park, Maryland, and got my GED in June 2021. I decided to get my GED because I dropped out at the age of 15 years old from school. I hit a rough time in my life and felt like I needed something accomplished in terms of education. And that’s why I decided to get my GED and move on from where I was. Now I’m deciding to continue my education because I have a GED. I’m going to enroll in college and further my education, and be able to move on to different things in life. If I can do it, anybody can do it! Trust me, it’s not easy, but it’s possible. And I want to thank all the educators over there at GED and all the administrators, everybody who helped me through this process, my family, my friends, and if you’re [reading] this and you’re struggling to get this done, Trust me, I know it’s not easy, but once you get it done, it’s a whole big world of opportunities that open up for you. And it’s worth it. Put the work in and study and just get it done.” Daniel G.

    Getting your GED takes time and energy, but is a GED worth it after everything is said and done? Yes! You will enjoy better job and education opportunities with a GED. Incorporate ways to help yourself stay motivated and study. You’ll be happy you did!

  • Double Your Chance of Passing the GED with GED+

    By GED Author

    If you’re committed to getting your GED, we have a message for you: You can do this! And GED+ can help.

    We’ve established the GED+ program to empower you on your way to your better, brighter future. It’s the only all-inclusive prep program curated by the creators of the GED—and it even covers the costs of retakes if you need them. Your success is guaranteed!

    How GED+ Helps You Pass the GED

    This incredibly popular program takes what might be daunting and makes it accessible. GED+ gives you the personal attention and tools you need to prepare and excel when you take the GED.

    Personal Guidance

    GED+ means you’ll have a personal advisor who has your back. They can help you get started and finish strong. They’ll also set you up with a tutor.

    If Spanish is your first language, we have bilingual advisors who can help you. You can even access Spanish study materials and even take the GED in Spanish.

    Study Guides

    Why use expensive study materials from third parties when you can use top-rated materials directly from the creators of the GED? GED+ means you’ll have all the resources you need to be prepared for the test.

    And don’t forget: We don’t just dump the materials on you and leave you to fend for yourself. Your advisor will guide you and equip you, so you’re never left wondering what the next step is.

    No Pressure

    One of the best things about the GED+ program? You work at your own pace. This helps you balance work and family priorities along with studying and test preparation.

    Until the day you pass the test, you have easy access to:

    • Study guides
    • Advisor help
    • 1-on-1 tutoring

    The GED+ test pass guarantee means you can be confident that you will succeed. Even if it takes a few tries, we’ve got your back the entire time.

    Thorough Preparation

    The GED covers:

    Depending on your needs, you can select the specific subjects you need help with through GED+ or cover all subjects at a discounted price.

    Either way, you’ll be able to take advantage of expert help and quality preparation resources.

    Get Ready with Expert Assistance

    No other program leads you through the process with step-by-step guidance from the same people who created the GED. This is why our students pass the GED at a higher rate than those who try independently.

    As soon as you sign up and enroll in GED+, your advisor will contact you via text message, email, or phone. After you connect, you’ll be on your way with materials, support, and tutoring.

    How To Get Started

    Let us help you through each step of this process with the GED+ program. Between your personal advisor, 1:1 tutoring, and quality material designed by the official home of the GED, there’s no better way to get set up for success.

    Sign up for GED+ and take control of your future today.

  • What Are GED Classes Like?

    By GED Author

    Congratulations on taking this important step towards a brighter future! When preparing for the GED and deciding between online and in-person classes, you’ll need to know what GED classes are like. You get out of them what you put in, so prioritize the class, homework, and study time. Whether you take the class online or in-person, supportive professionals will help you.

    How Long Are GED Classes?

    Traditional, in-person classes, require around 31 learning hours for each subject. The lessons make up approximately two hours for each subject. You can take a class three times a week, study outside class for the same amount of time, and take the test in three months.
    Alternatively, you can take just one class a week, with an hour or two of study time, and be test-ready in about a year.

    Unlike in-person classes, online courses allow you to set your own pace. Depending on your other responsibilities, you can break each subject into sections made up of two hours each and study when it’s convenient for you. You should be ready in around four months if you take one class a week.

    The Importance of Work-Life Balance

    Some students don’t have a lot of time for studying and classes. This is especially true if you’re balancing full-time work, child care, or other responsibilities. Online classes can make this less of a struggle. With this option, you don’t have to waste time in traffic and can log on from home or your office.

    You also have more flexibility with online classes because the curriculum is self-paced. You get to decide how much time to spend studying and how often you take the classes. You also might find the online lessons go by a lot faster than the in-person options.

    Find out more to see if GED online classes work for you.

    Local GED Classes

    If you learn better in a traditional classroom setting and benefit from group interactions, you can find local classes that offer different lesson plans to fit your individual learning needs. Each instructor is skilled, and these classes are often free to adult students who left high school before graduating. These last between 4-12 months.

    A local GED class provides:

    • Support throughout your GED journey
    • Expert instruction on GED test subjects
    • Practice for the GED test
    • Help with career and college planning

    Open a free account and discover in-person classes with availability near you.

    Online GED Classes

    Our popular GED Live program, developed by GED Testing Service and Kaplan Test Prep, covers each test subject with online classes that last between an hour and an hour and a half. Recorded classes mean you can easily review each subject when it’s convenient for you.

    Do you want to study with a team? No problem. Live, interactive classes with experienced teachers get you ready for the exam in no time. Supportive instructors answer questions quickly through email.

    An online class provides:

    • Customized and efficient preparation
    • Exactly the information you need to get to a passing score
    • Flexible schedules
    • Live classes or recorded videos
    • A step-by-step breakdown of subject fundamentals

    Open a free account and discover online classes that fit your needs.

    See How it Works

    View this informative PDF of class schedules.

    What are GED classes like? Supportive, skilled online and in-person instructors get you ready for this important step. In-person students benefit from group learning. Online students benefit from flexible schedules and focused learning.

    Your free account will provide specific answers, class availability, and so much more. Sign up for a free GED account and find the class that makes sense for you.

  • How to Get Your GED as an Adult

    By GED Author

    You may be thinking, “I’m an adult. Is it too late for me to get an education? What are my choices?” The short answer is: It’s never too late. You are more valuable than you realize. Getting your GED, combined with your life experience, will help you get to wherever you want to go.

    The Benefits of a GED

    When you’re considering whether to get your GED, be aware of certain benefits that make the time and effort worthwhile. Getting your GED allows you to:

    • Apply for better-paying jobs. The high-salary positions with benefits often require a high school diploma or GED.
    • Get into college. A diploma or GED is required for higher education.
    • Apply for scholarships. If you work hard, with higher than average scores, you’ll qualify for funding that helps pay for college or technical training.
    • Advance from your current position or in your field. A GED opens doors that may have been previously closed.
    • Learn effective study skills and test-taking strategies. This will be valuable if you decide to go on to higher learning or take job-specific exams to advance your career.
    • Change and grow. This is a great opportunity to get rid of bad habits and start good ones that work for you and help you get more out of life.
    • Be proud of yourself. It takes a lot of work to study and get your GED. Your self-confidence will grow through this experience.
    • Accomplish goals. You’ll be able to work hard and get something tangible as a result. Then you can go anywhere!
    • Join the armed services. You can proudly serve your country once you’ve passed the GED and go on to take the necessary training to advance through the ranks.
    • Set a good example. Your children, partners, and colleagues will look to you as a role model who faced some struggles but made this dream come true.

    Adult GED Classes

    Online programs like GED+ are convenient because you can log in and take these classes anytime. No matter where you live in the United States, you can access these powerful, interactive tools to learn each subject when it’s convenient for you. This is especially helpful for adults who have full-time jobs, childcare duties, or other responsibilities.

    With GED+, you’ll also benefit from a personal advisor. This extra guidance will help you stay focused and organized. They also have a “test pass guarantee.” This means you’ll be able to take the tests until you pass them without paying for retakes. With the absence of financial pressure, you’ll take tests with less stress, knowing you can take them again if needed.

    When you research GED programs for adults, examine what study tools and practice tests they offer. What do former students have to say about the program? Do they have good online reviews? Do they have recordings you can view at any time? Ask about scholarships and other resources that might help you pay for tutoring or books. Inquire about flexible class schedules and how they help students with specific learning issues.

    Many people want to help you succeed. Take advantage of the support and guidance. Talk to your HR department at work and see if they provide financial assistance for employees working on getting their GED.

    The Convenience of Online Learning

    One of the benefits of our tech-driven environment is online education programs. They’re an inclusive format that’s allowed millions of adults to further their education and get ahead.

    Online learning has improved over the last two decades. The classes are entertaining. They hold a student’s attention and often come with study guides and materials that appeal to different learning styles. They also offer practice tests.

    Convenience is one of the best things about adult GED online programs. Students continue with their usual daily routines, whether that’s taking care of family or working full-time jobs. You’ll still have time to complete online classes and get your GED. You’ll also save time and gas money by doing all this from home.

    A Proud Accomplishment

    There are many financial, professional, and personal reasons to get your GED. You can choose among many online programs to prepare without interfering with your daily life. It doesn’t matter why you left high school. What matters is that you’re back on track. You’re ready to combine hard-earned life experiences with a GED to open doors to the future.

    College, better jobs, or military service are just some of the ways you can advance your life by passing the GED. Get started today!

  • Can You Be Successful with a GED? Celebrities Who Earned Their GED

    By GED Author

    Earning a high school diploma is a crucial step on the path to academic and career-related success in life. But if you left high school without getting a diploma, it’s not too late.

    You may be wondering: Can you be successful with a GED? Yes! In most cases, getting a GED will give you equal footing with those who earned a high school diploma, opening countless doors to further your education and career.

    In fact, a host of famous people who started later in life earned their GED. Check out our list to learn more about these wildly successful celebrities.

    1. Jay-Z
    2. Jim Carrey
    3. Chris Rock
    4. Elton John
    5. ​​Nicholas Cage
    6. D.L. Hughley
    7. Christina Applegate
    8. Catherine Zeta-Jones
    9. Robert De Niro
    10. Arnold Schwarzenegger
    11. Drew Barrymore – In Progress
  • 6 Steps to Apply for College After Your GED

    By GED Author

    As you know, getting your GED is a huge accomplishment. You worked hard, studied, and prioritized. It’s exhausting but well worth it. Congratulations! So what’s next?

    For many recent GED recipients, attending college is the next thing on their to-do list. But how? The process of applying to college may seem challenging, but that’s what you thought about the GED process. You did that, and you can do this, too.

    Here are 6 steps to apply for college after getting your GED.

    1. Look into Schools

    Research colleges within your price range and geographic location. Don’t forget to consider online programs as well. You can often take online classes anywhere in the country, and the prices are much lower than attending school in person. One option is the Accelerated Pathways Program, a non-traditional, online college experience that offers flexibility as you earn a Bachelor’s degree. You’ll have the opportunity to work with an academic counselor to develop a customized degree plan that fits their identified goals, budget, and schedule.

    When doing your research make sure the schools offer your chosen major or minor and look into their programs and reputations. Check out their alumni program too. What percentage of their graduates find full-time work in their chosen field?

    Now that you’ve got your GED, community college might be a great option. Every two-year community college accepts students with GEDs. They have smaller class sizes, so you’ll receive more one-on-one instruction. They’re also less expensive.

    Community colleges often partner up with state schools. When you graduate with your associate degree, you can automatically transfer to participating four-year colleges or universities as a junior.

    After you make a list of colleges, double-check any out-of-state schools to see if they accept the GED from the state where you received it.

    2. Contact the Admissions Department

    After you determine that you meet the schools’ qualifications, submit the necessary documentation. This often includes:

    • An application.
    • An application fee or a fee waiver.
    • A FAFSA form for federal grants and loans.
    • Copies of your GED transcripts and standardized test scores.
    • Proof of identity and residence.
    • High school transcripts.

    3. Write an Outstanding Essay

    A well-written essay is often required for incoming students. Give yourself plenty of time to write an outline. Complete the essay and ask a teacher or professional you trust to edit the final draft.

    Inspirational essays about overcoming challenges do well. School requirements may differ, but an essay should be between 600-800 words. The theme could be a story about yourself and an accomplishment you’ve recently made.

    4. Ask for Recommendation Letters

    Tell your references you need the final draft about a week or two before it’s due. This is a typical requirement, so try to find at least three references ahead of time. Here are some suggestions for whom to ask:

    • Former teachers
    • Employers
    • School counselors
    • Instructors
    • Local leaders

    5. Consider Financial Aid

    Create a spreadsheet with every college’s tuition schedule and related expenses. Include financial aid possibilities. When you’re doing this, inquire about a waiver for each application fee, but include that amount in your budgeted expenses just in case. You should also consider researching your eligibility for federal student aid.

    6. Look for Scholarships

    They’re out there. Find scholarships related to your background, including:

    • Location/Community
    • College
    • Major
    • Ethnic background
    • Religion
    • Gender
    • Income bracket
    • Hobbies/Interests
    • Sport of choice
    • Age

    Websites like Fastweb.com offer a full database of national scholarships. As a “nontraditional student,” you may qualify for more benefits. Contact the financial aid departments at your schools of choice.

    GED Testing Service can provide more information about these steps to apply for college. Get started today.

  • How to Know When You Are Ready to Take the GED Test?

    By GED Author

    There are steps to take when determining how to prepare for GED testing. You’ve signed up for GED preparation classes and put in the necessary time and attention. You feel like you’ve got this. However, when do you know for sure that you’re ready for the actual test?

    It’s different for every student. Here are some questions to ask yourself when determining readiness for yourself.

    1. How well do you know each subject?

    Determine your comfort level with the GED subjects you’ve been studying. Dig deeper and assess your needs. If you feel secure and confident, that’s fantastic.

    Slow down and get familiar with all the sections on the test. If you feel like you can explain a subject in your own words and be understood, you’re there! Don’t fall into the trap of neglecting one topic because you’re focusing on another.

    2. Are you devoting enough time to studying?

    Every student is different. Some have been out of school for a while and might need months of study to get ready. Others might only need a few weeks. If so, you are well on your way to accomplishing this important goal. Be sure you incorporate good study habits and review the material for at least a few hours each night.

    Keep in mind the entire GED test is over seven hours long. That means when you sit down to study, you should be able to focus for over an hour without a break. If you find yourself drifting and daydreaming after 20 minutes or so, work on increasing your concentration stamina.

    3. How familiar are you with each GED subject test?

    Review each subject test and understand the information covered, so you are fully prepared. This includes looking at the type of questions asked and the format. You also want to record how much time you need to complete each test.

    You may do well in one area, such as language arts, while you struggle in another area, like math. This is what good studying and subject tests help you determine. Now you know where to focus your energy so you pass all subject tests in the end.

    4. Did you pass the practice test?

    The practice test is vital to understanding your readiness for the GED. If you pass the pre-tests, that’s a great sign you’ll pass the GED. If you’re getting low scores, that’s okay. You need more work in certain areas.

    You are not in this alone. Our GED preparation course provides support, relevant study guides, and tutoring to focus your GED study efforts where they will do the most good. Answering these questions above and utilizing our solid GED preparation classes will help you earn your GED with confidence.

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