How long does it take to get a GED? Studying 2-3 times a week can help you become GED ready and more likely to pass the test in just a few months, which can vary based on the last grade you completed and how recently you attended school. In most cases, the more you study, the quicker you can learn the information needed to pass the GED test subjects. Decide how quickly you want to finish, and use a step-by-step checklist to get there.

There are four different tests you’ll take to earn the GED: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts. If you shoot to finish the process of earning a GED in three months, you could either:

Option 1: Study a single subject for three weeks, take the GED test for it, then repeat for the next subject.

Advantage: Focus completely on just one subject at a time and finish faster.

Option 2: Study all four subjects for about three months, then take all four tests in one day.

Advantage: If you have to drive far to get to your testing center, avoid taking the trip four different times.

Either way, you’ve got to set a goal that will work for you and start using it. Be realistic about your situation and personality. For example, if you don’t have a lot of time to study, you may need to give yourself a longer timeline.

Updated 09/14/20

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.

The Online Proctored GED Test was launched in May 2020 and is currently available in select states in the U.S. and U.S. territories. With the Online Proctored GED Test, students can take the GED test from home while securely monitored by an online proctor. Prior to this, students could only take the GED test at approved test centers. This online testing option was created to help students continue testing while some test centers remain closed or have limited appointments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This option is not currently available internationally.

To qualify for online testing, you must meet the following requirements.

• Your state participates in online testing
• You’ve scored “Green” on the GED Ready practice test within the past 60 days

You can also log into your GED.com account to see if you are eligible.

If you meet these requirements, here are some online testing essentials to keep in mind:

• You’ll need a computer, webcam and reliable internet — no tablets or phones.
• You’ll need to take your test in a private room with a closed door.
• Before scheduling and paying for the test, it’s important to run a system check to be sure that your computer meets the requirements.

Check out the video below about how online GED testing works.

Updated June 8, 2020

We have a launched an online GED test, for more information, click here.

Being stuck at home can be frustrating, especially when you’re counting on getting your GED soon. We are doing everything we can to make testing available as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.

In the meantime, we’d like to bring your attention to the CARES Act recently passed by the US government to help people cope during this uncertain time. Be sure to check your state governor’s website for more details and how to apply. Here are some highlights:

Increased unemployment benefits

The economic situation caused by widespread closings can feel scary, especially if your job requires you to be on site in order to get paid. You may be eligible for higher payments and/or longer periods of payments. Salaried and hourly employees, as well as self-employed, independent contractors and even gig workers, could be eligible. Learn more in this article: The historic $2 trillion CARES Act will be an economic lifeline for gig workers and freelancers.

One-time payment to boost cash flow

Depending on your income, you may have already received or will soon receive a check or direct deposit of up to $1,200 for an individual who makes up to $75,000 per year. The amount is up to $2,400 for married couples who make up to $150,000 per year in total. Plus $500 more per child to help with expenses. Calculate how much you’ll get from the $1,200 (or more) coronavirus checks in this news article. You can also track when you will receive your payment through the IRS ‘Get My Payment’ tool.

COVID-19 testing and treatment

The cost of testing and even vaccinations, when they become available, will be covered. This means you don’t have to hesitate if you or a family member may be showing potential coronavirus symptoms. You can get tested without worrying about money. Get more details in this news article: What’s inside the Senate’s $2 trillion coronavirus aid package.

We’re proud of you for staying strong and focused. Try the suggestions below to be confident and ready to test when the time comes.

Free study guides

After logging in, you’ll discover free study guides for every subject. It’s a great way to get started or refresh your skills during downtime.

Comprehensive online classes with GED Live

GED Live brings top Kaplan instructors to your screen with interactive lessons and a library of recordings in case you miss a live session.

Stay social at a distance

Keep up with the GED community and connect with other students on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also watch helpful videos on our YouTube channel.

Updated 09/15/2020

The GED test is a second chance for people who didn’t receive a formal high school degree to earn their high school credentials. Having a valid GED provides an opportunity to move forward in life like going to college or opening the door to a wider variety of careers.

Do Fake GED Certificates Work?

Unfortunately, there are diploma mills out there that try to take advantage of those who want their GED certificate and only provide fake tests and certificates. Fake certificates hold no value. Therefore, if students use a fake GED credential or high school diploma, they can get kicked out of school or lose their job. It is definitely not worth the risk. A real GED is worth it.

Additionally, sometimes these certificates are purchased intentionally, while other times people purchase them as victims of a scam. That’s why it’s important to know ahead of time how to prevent purchasing a fake GED certificate. Here are five tips to help avoid getting fooled by a faulty GED website.

1. Online GED Tests Are Only Administered on GED.com

GED tests are given to those eligible – you must reside in a participating state and score “green” on the GED Ready practice test. You can find everything you need to know about the official Online Proctored GED®test here. Be aware of other sites that are not affiliated with GED and offer a quick, often fake GED credential.

2. They’re Attached to Non-Accredited Online High Schools

While some school districts are moving toward online schools, there is a difference between an accredited program from a school district that is working with high school age students, and an online high school that is promising it can give you a GED diploma when you complete. Be careful when dealing with online schools and fake programs.

If you want to know if the program you’re looking to join is accredited and can provide you with a GED certificate, a simple search online may provide you with the answer and provide you with reviews. If that doesn’t work, consider getting in touch with a local college or community college. You don’t have a real GED certificate if they don’t accept the certification.

3. They Offer a Test “Based On” the GED Test

A legitimate GED test is never going to be “based on” the GED test. It is not the real deal if there is any wording in the test that distances it from the official GED test.

4. They Try to Sell You Your GED Diploma

You should never be able to buy a GED certificate without taking the test. If you pay to skip the test, then you do not have a legitimate certificate.

Do not be confused by having to pay to take the test. The official GED test is not free to take unless you reside in a state that currently offers free or discounted testing. You can find out what your state charges for the test by visiting the state policy pages. It’s not official if you did not go to a testing center or take it through GED.com.

Earning a Valid GED Certificate

If you’ve discovered your certificate is a fake, then you should get a real GED credential. For example, it’s a lot like having a fake driver’s license. It isn’t the same as having a real one and you can run into trouble for being in possession of it.

Fortunately, it is possible, and worth your while, to earn your GED certificate the right way. Therefore, by taking the time to prepare for the test, you can pass and receive a valid certificate. Once you earn your GED certificate the right way, you will be on your way to a better future without having to look over your shoulder.

It’s easy to feel intimidated by math. Many people are, because it’s sort of like a foreign language. But with practice and great resources, anyone can understand it and master it.

Studying for a test is much easier when you know what will be on it, especially when you can break it down into understandable parts. You can then study each part separately.

The math section will challenge your skills in basic math, geometry, algebra, and graphs and functions. Once you study each of these areas long enough, you’ll be confident that you can pass.

General Tips: GED Math Section

Tip #1:

You don’t have to memorize formulas before the math test. You’ll need some experience using them, but will be given a formula sheet during the test.

Tip #2:

You should also practice general math questions along with common measurements and real-life applications.

Tip #3:

The exam questions will come in several types: multiple choice, drag-and-drop, drop-down, fill-in-the-blank, and others. That means the listed answers could give you some clues, but they could also mislead you. Make sure you can solve the problems on your own, but if you are struggling, you can use the process of elimination to narrow down the answer.

Tip #4:

You’ll only need to use a calculator in section two of the test. That means you’ll need to understand math ideas well, not just know how to use a calculator.

The GED and the military have a closer relationship than you might think. In fact, the GED was originally created in 1942 for veterans and members of the military to find good jobs. So if you’re interested in knowing if, and how, you can get into a branch of the military with a GED, keep reading to find out more.

Can You Join the Military With a GED?

Yes! You can join the military with a GED. The military often requires a high school diploma, but it is still very possible for you to become a member of the armed services after you earn a GED.

No matter which branch you are looking to serve in, you still must meet the age, citizenship, height and weight, and legal requirements in order to join the military.

Each branch of the military has tiers for recruits and classifies all of their recruits into one of three categories. Tier 1 recruits have earned a high school diploma or have completed 15 credits (one semester) of college. Tier 2 recruits have a GED. Tier 3 recruits have neither a GED or high school diploma.

Tier 3 Recruit

There are almost no Tier 3 recruits. It is rare for Tier 3 recruits to join the military. If you are looking to join the military and you do not have a GED, it is highly recommended that you study and pass your GED exam.

You can get help with earning your GED with practice tests online. They can help you feel prepared for earning your degree so you can have a better chance of entering into the armed forces.

Tier 2 Recruit

If you have a GED and are looking to get into the military, you have to know that each branch sets its own limits. For example, less than 1% of the annual recruits for the air-force are Tier 2, while roughly 5% of the USMC are Tier 2. One of the biggest ways to help you get into that small percentage of Tier 2 recruits, is to score well on your ASVAB.

ASVAB

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is key for a Tier 2 recruit to make it into the military. Tier 1 recruits only have to score 31% or higher on the ASVAB. Tier 2 recruits have to score 50% or higher. The ASVAB also provides grounds for what you are qualified to do in each branch. If you score well enough in certain areas and show knowledge or talent in those areas, you can be recruited to fill a specific job, which pretty much guarantees your recruitment.

Tier 1 Recruit

It doesn’t matter if you have a GED or not if you have either a high school diploma or 15 college credits. You are considered to be a Tier 1 recruit, and Tier 1 recruits get first pick for any open positions.

If you have a GED and want to become a Tier 1 recruit, you need to earn 15 college credits. These credits do not have to be at a large university or state-run school, but can be earned from vocational, community, or business colleges. Before you apply to colleges to get 15 credits (which can be completed in one semester of school), double-check with your recruiter to make sure you are applying to a school that is recognized in programs that will count towards your 15 credits.

If you’re looking to enlist in the military but need your GED, get GED Ready the official GED practice test. This practice test can help you know where your strengths and weaknesses are within the GED and let you know if you’re going to pass or not. Not only does it show your progress on GED topics, but it can help you create a custom study plan to work on areas that you need to improve, with exact chapters and pages to study that will directly improve your score.

Some people think that colleges will reject them if they have a GED instead of a high school diploma, but is that true? Can you go to college with a GED? Yes, you can! There are many, many colleges you can apply to. In fact, 98% of colleges accept applicants with a GED. Once you get in, you can earn your degree and progress towards a great career. Use the tips below before you start sending out applications.

Does a GED Affect College Acceptance?

You may be wondering if your application will get overlooked if you have a GED rather than a high school diploma.

Nearly all colleges in the US accept the GED as well as many universities around the world. The GED is widely recognized. In fact, there are over 20 million GED graduates and counting. GED graduates that earn the College Ready score levels may even be eligible to bypass placement testing and earn college credit for classes related to the test subjects.

Tips for Applicants

If you have, or are working towards, your GED and want to apply to college one day, these are a few pointers that might give you an extra boost at the admissions office:

• Volunteer in your community and get references from those you volunteered with
• Work hard for an employer, get valuable experience, and show it on your applications
• Take a college entrance exam like the SAT or ACT and do well on it. (College entrance exams are standardized tests that measure how ready you are for college-level work).
• Get really great letters of recommendation (which means you need to work hard helping others and showing that you’re responsible). These letters highlight your positive personal and academic qualities and why you would be successful in college.

Applying to more than one college increases your chances of being accepted. Make sure you fulfill their application requirements and check if they have an alternate form or method to submit your GED scores. With any college you apply to, be sure you to triple-check that you fill out each application correctly. Finally, show off your other accomplishments besides your GED including any of those mentioned above.

If you’re planning to take the GED test, you may be wondering: is the GED test hard? Well, it depends! If you don’t take time to study and get familiar with the test format, you may struggle with taking the GED. But with enough preparation, you can go into the GED test with confidence that you’ll pass.

If you’re someone who dropped out of high school in 11th or 12th grade, you may already have an education foundation to take and pass the test. Need more assurance? The pass rate for the GED test was an impressive 80% in 2018.

The GED test measures your understanding of high school subjects like reading, math, social studies, and science. The test usually takes up to 7-8 hours to finish. On average, students spend about 3 months studying for and taking the test. All of that preparation will help you be well prepared for a bright future. You’ll learn valuable skills that can be applied to college courses, a job, and other future tests.

Is the Test Similar to High School?

High school offers students a chance to build upon their knowledge base for four years. They learn one course at a time and take many tests along the way. If you weren’t able to complete a traditional high school program, the GED allows you to exhibit the same skills in its tests.

How Can I Prepare for the GED?

Here are five key tips to set you up for success in preparing for and passing the GED:

1. Learn What to Study

The GED is made up of four parts, testing your knowledge of reading, math, social studies, and science. These are broad topics, so it’s important to read up on what specific skills you will need to know for the test. Identify which areas you need more brushing up on, then focus on those subjects in your studies.

2. Take Practice Tests

Practice tests will help you better determine your strengths and weaknesses. They’ll help you get familiar with the test format and feel more comfortable when the big test day comes. Specific practice tests like the GED Ready allow you to see which subjects you are doing well in as well as the ones you may need to spend a little more time working on. Find practice tests online and take them regularly throughout your study period to measure progress.

3. Study Consistently

When it comes to preparing for the GED, consistency is crucial. This is not a test you can just cram for and then hope for the best. Carve out time to study several times a week or even every day. Create a study schedule to help keep you on track.

4. Find a Preparation Program

Getting ready for the GED can feel overwhelming, but a GED preparation program can help direct your studies. Find the right program to meet your needs, then stick with it until testing day.

Start Preparing for the GED Today

GED Testing Service offers a complete list of study tips, prep materials, and courses to help you prepare for the GED. You can study on your own or get help from in-person or online GED instructors. If you’re ready to start your future with a GED, visit GED.com today to be prepared for exam day.

There’s a lot of info out there about the GED, but how can you tell what’s true or not? Let’s break down some of the most common myths.

Myth #1: “A GED Isn’t as Good as a High School Diploma“

Totally false! Just like a high school diploma, the GED shows colleges and employers that you have the knowledge and skills required at a high school level. In fact, 98% of colleges and employers accept the GED. That means almost any college you want to attend or any company you want to work for can be an option!

Myth #2: “It’s Easy to Get a GED”

The GED journey is different for every student, but earning your GED is definitely doable if you prep right and keep your eyes on the prize. Some subjects may be easier for some learners than others.

GED prep doesn’t happen overnight, but we’re sure you can make it happen with the right tools, courses and support. Classrooms aren’t your thing? That’s ok! There are many online options instead. On average, students complete their GED in just three months, through in-person or online prep.

Remember, it’s amazing how much of a difference a teacher, friend or family member can have on keeping you going! Don’t be shy — tell them about your GED goal.

Myth #3: “Math is Impossible”

Many students find Math to be the toughest subject and typically take it as their last test. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. The GED team has spent years designing tools just for the GED test. You’ll learn exactly what you need to pass math without wasting time. In your student account, discover everything from free study guides to GED Live online classes to GED Flash with thousands of on-the-go practice questions.

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.