GED

GED
Name	General Educational Development
Acronym	GED
Type	High school equivalency test
Test taker skills	Reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies
Year started	1942
Duration	Approx. 7.5 hours total
Score range	100–200 per subject
Regions	United States, Canada
Language	English, Spanish, French, large print, audio, braille
Prerequisite	Typically age 16+ and not enrolled in high school
Fee	Varies by jurisdiction
Website	ged.com

GED. The General Educational Development tests are a group of four subject exams that, when passed, certify a test-taker has attained high school-level academic skills. Administered by the non-profit organization GED Testing Service, a joint venture of the American Council on Education and publisher Pearson, the credential is widely recognized as an equivalent to a traditional high school diploma across North America. It provides a critical pathway for adults to advance their education, qualify for better employment, and pursue opportunities in institutions of higher education.

Overview

The credential serves as a formal alternative for individuals who did not complete their secondary education through conventional means, such as attending a public or private high school. Successfully passing the four independent subject tests demonstrates competencies comparable to those of graduating high school seniors, as established by rigorous standardized test development processes. While the specific policies are set by individual states and provinces, the overarching program is managed at the national level, ensuring a consistent standard of measurement for foundational knowledge in core academic areas. This standardization allows employers, including the United States Armed Forces, and colleges to uniformly evaluate the qualifications of credential holders.

History

The program originated in 1942 under the auspices of the American Council on Education, created to help returning World War II veterans reintegrate into civilian life and access the benefits of the G.I. Bill. The initial series of tests provided a method for these veterans to demonstrate their learned skills and earn a credential that facilitated entry into college or the workforce. Over the decades, the test has undergone several major revisions to align with evolving educational standards, including shifts in K–12 curricula and the adoption of the Common Core State Standards Initiative. A significant overhaul in 2014 transitioned the exam to a computer-based format and recalibrated its scoring to better distinguish between high school equivalency and college readiness.

Test structure and content

The examination is divided into four separate modules: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. The Reasoning Through Language Arts section evaluates reading comprehension, grammar, and the ability to write an extended response, or essay, analyzing given source texts. The Mathematical Reasoning test covers quantitative problem-solving with an emphasis on algebraic reasoning and data analysis, allowing the use of an on-screen calculator. The Science module focuses on life science, physical science, and Earth and space science, requiring the interpretation of experiments and data. The Social Studies section draws content from civics and government, United States history, economics, and geography, testing analytical skills within these contexts.

Preparation and administration

Prospective test-takers typically engage in preparation through official practice tests, study guides, and classes offered by local adult education centers, community colleges, or online platforms. Official testing is conducted at secure, proctored Pearson VUE test centers located internationally, where candidates must present valid government-issued identification. The exams are administered exclusively on computer, and accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities as outlined under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Each jurisdiction, such as the state of California or the province of Ontario, sets its own eligibility requirements regarding minimum age, residency, and preparation coursework.

Recognition and acceptance

The credential is accepted by the vast majority of employers and colleges across the United States and Canada as a valid high school equivalency. All branches of the United States Armed Forces recognize it for enlistment purposes, provided other qualifications are met. Most public universities and community college systems consider holders for admission, though some competitive private institutions may have additional requirements. It is also recognized by professional certification bodies and apprenticeship programs, such as those in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, as meeting basic educational prerequisites.

Impact and outcomes

Earning the credential has a substantial positive impact on economic mobility and further educational attainment for millions of adults. Studies indicate that credential holders have significantly higher annual earnings and lower unemployment rates compared to those without a high school diploma or its equivalent. It frequently serves as a foundational step for enrollment in postsecondary vocational training or degree programs at institutions like the University of Phoenix or local technical colleges. The program plays a vital role in public policy initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and improving workforce readiness, supported by organizations such as the National Governors Association and the U.S. Department of Labor.

Category:Standardized tests in the United States Category:Adult education Category:Educational assessment and evaluation