The Reasoning through Language Arts portion of the GED contains an essay section, also known as the extended response, where you will be asked to use evidence-based writing. This section is 45 minutes long and 20% of your overall RLA score.

Benefits of the Extended Response Section

So why is it so important to prepare for this section if it only makes up 20% of your score? Here are a few reasons:

1. Evidence-based writing is not just a type of question. It’s a form of writing that everyone needs to be successful. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 73.4% of employers want someone with strong written communication skills. It was also the third most desired quality overall, behind leadership skills and teamwork.
2. Writing in the workplace is all about facts, not opinion. You may have an opinion about how to fix a problem, but if you want to convince your boss to use this solution, you need evidence to back up your opinion. Writing prepares you with communication and thinking skills to help explain your ideas to others.
3. Lastly, the higher you score on this section, the more likely you are to pass the RLA test! As a bonus, you could score College Ready or College Ready + and receive credits for college!

The Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) test assesses your reading and writing skills. Both of these skills are all about communication, something you’ve probably done plenty of in life.

Test Topics

The RLA section of the GED includes three different topics:

1. Reading for Meaning
2. Identifying and Creating Arguments
3. Grammar and Language

The RLA test assesses your ability to understand what you read and how to write clearly.

Format of the RLA Test

There are three sections on the GED Language Arts test. The entire test takes 150 minutes with a 10-minute break between sections two and three. There will be one written essay (extended response), which you will have 45 minutes to complete.

There are also different question types including multiple-choice, drag and drop, select an area and drop down.

Getting your GED offers a chance at a better future. With a little preparation and effort, you’ll have the certification you need to get a higher paying job and an opportunity to further your education.

How do I get my GED? How long does it take to get a GED? If these are questions that have been running through your mind, we have the answers.

How long it takes to get your GED all depends on your skill level and education. On average, it takes 3 months, but it could be faster depending on how prepared you are for the exam. Check out the step-by-step process you will need to follow in order to successfully get your GED.

Updated September 16, 2020

Check out our new Online Testing webpage to find out everything you need to know about the Online Proctored GED test and if you’re eligible.

In the past, the GED test was not available online and could only be taken on a computer at a physical test center with an on-site proctor that monitors all test takers. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we now have an online testing option for eligible students in participating states. You may qualify to test online based on several requirements including what state you live in, if you scored green on GED Ready or whether testing centers are opened.

We launched online testing in May 2020 as a pilot program, which was rolled out in phases. During the first phase, students in the following categories received an email inviting them to sign up to test online:

• In-person test appointments have been canceled
• 3 of 4 test subjects have already been passed
• GED Ready “Green” score has been achieved within the past 60 days
• Essential cases per individual states

The pilot is still ongoing and some eligibility requirements have changed. More information about current requirements for testing can be found on our Online Testing webpage.

Students taking the GED tests online are monitored by an online proctor, which is similar to what they would find at a physical test center.

Prior to this online proctored pilot, you could not earn your GED credential through any method other than in-person testing at an authorized center. Please be aware of fraudulent websites that advertise taking the GED test online or offer a diploma for a fee. The official online proctored GED test can only be taken through GED Testing Service at GED.com.

If you’re getting ready to take the GED test, the internet has a wealth of resources to help you prepare.

Keep reading for ideas on things you can do to study, prepare, and even schedule your test with the help of online tools.

1. Take Online Practice Tests

Online practice tests are an important way to identify your strengths and weaknesses. These online tests will help you know what to study and get you familiar with the GED testing process.

• Feel more confident on testing day if you’ve taken several practice tests
• Try taking more than one if you want to measure your progress
• As your practice score continues to improve, you’ll know your study habits are effective

2. Interactive Practice Questions On-the-go

GED Flash is a mobile-friendly practice tool that will help you master the exact concepts you’ll need to know to pass the GED test:

• Thousands of interactive questions just like the ones on the real test
• Instant step-by-step explanations to understand each answer
• Study wherever and whenever you want with easy access from any device
• Zero in on the exact skills you need to pass by practicing a few minutes at a time

3. Enroll in an Online GED Preparation Course

Once you’ve taken some practice tests online and know what you need to study, an online GED preparation course can help you better understand the material.

• GED Live features top-rated Kaplan instructors who can guide you through each subject
• Complete the courses at your own pace from the comfort of home
• Recorded sessions are available on demand if you miss a live lesson

4. Schedule Your GED Test Online

After careful study, it’s time to take the GED test. If your test center is open you can schedule your test online. We recommend scheduling your GED test when you feel confident about your abilities. If you’ve taken a practice test and earned a passing score, you should feel ready to take the next step and schedule your GED test. The online portal allows you to select a day and time at a test center nearby.

Start Preparing for the GED Today

If you’re ready to start preparing for the GED test, GED Testing Service can help. Our GED preparation courses allow you to choose the right learning environment to suit your needs, whether you prefer a traditional classroom or a convenient online option. We have a variety of courses that will help you to better your future.

The GED was originally an acronym for the Tests of General Educational Development, but since 2011 we just use the term GED. The GED test is a series of four subject tests a person can take to demonstrate their high school academic knowledge. Earning a GED diploma from your state is the equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma, so some students choose to take this certification exam if they were not able to complete a traditional high school program.

Benefits of the GED Program

The GED program is an excellent alternative to a traditional high school diploma. Nearly all colleges in the U.S., and many universities outside of the U.S., accept applicants who have earned a GED diploma. The GED diploma is also widely accepted by employers as an alternative to a high school diploma.

The GED program provides a pathway to more employment opportunities and higher pay, compared to those who do not have a GED or a high school diploma.

What is the GED Test?

The GED test is comprised of four subjects: math, science, social studies, and language arts. Each exam tests a student’s knowledge of topics covered in a typical high school classroom, from history and government to life science and algebra. Exams are taken on a computer in a GED test center. The exams have a variety of answer formats, such as multiple choice, short answer, and fill-in-the-blank. Read more about what the GED is.

Start Working Toward Your GED Diploma Today

If you’re ready to start working toward your GED diploma, GED.com can help. Our preparation courses and practice tests will give you all the tools you need to succeed on exam day. We love seeing students succeed and continue their path to achieving their career and education goals.

You may hear other meanings for GED such as Graduate Equivalency Degree or General Educational Diploma. However, GED traditionally stands for General Educational Development Test.

After graduating from high school, you will receive a diploma. A diploma is a document stating you’ve completed all the required courses to graduate. Some students in high school are close to finishing and getting a diploma, but don’t quite get there. In those cases, students can take a series of tests that will indicate whether or not they have a high school level of education. This is known as the GED test.

Want to learn more about earning your GED credential? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Earning your GED is worthwhile, and we’re here to help you discover more about what a GED is, the process of earning one, and how it will benefit your life further down the road. Check out the video below and keep reading for more information.