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.

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.