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How to Get Your GED

Everything you need to know about the GED test -- subjects, costs, free prep resources, testing centers, and how to earn your high school equivalency credential.

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Quick Answer

The GED (General Educational Development) test is the most widely recognized high school equivalency credential in the United States. It tests you on four subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. The total cost is about $120-160 in most states (around $30-40 per subject), and several states offer it completely free.

You do not need to take all four subjects at once -- you can take them one at a time at your own pace. Most people study for 2-6 months before testing. Free prep resources are available through GED.com, Khan Academy, your local library, and adult education centers. If you are currently incarcerated or recently released, many prisons and reentry programs offer GED classes at no cost.

The GED is accepted by virtually all U.S. employers and colleges. Earning your GED opens doors to better jobs, trade school, college, and financial aid including Pell Grants. It is never too late to get your GED -- there is no age limit, and people of all ages earn theirs every year.

Cost

$30-40 per subject, about $120-160 total for all 4 subjects

Free options: Free in New York, West Virginia, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, and some local programs. Maryland charges just $45 total. Many prisons, libraries, and adult education centers offer free prep classes.

Costs vary by state. Some states charge different rates for online vs. in-person testing. Retake fees may apply. Financial assistance may be available through your local adult education center or workforce development office.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. 1

    Create a MyGED Account

    Go to ged.com and create a free account. This is where you will schedule tests, find testing centers, view practice resources, and track your scores.

  2. 2

    Take a Practice Test

    Use the free practice tests on ged.com or other free resources to assess where you stand. This helps you know which subjects need the most study time.

  3. 3

    Study and Prepare

    Use free prep resources (Khan Academy, library books, adult education classes, USAHello) to study. Focus on your weakest areas. Most people study for 2-6 months, but your timeline depends on your starting level.

  4. 4

    Schedule Your First Test

    When you feel ready, schedule a test through your MyGED account. You can take one subject at a time. Start with your strongest subject to build momentum. Choose a testing center or take it online.

  5. 5

    Take the Test and Get Your Results

    Arrive early to your testing center with a valid government-issued ID. Results are typically available within 24 hours on your MyGED account. If you pass, congratulations! If not, review your score report to see what to study and schedule a retake.

  6. 6

    Get Your Diploma and Transcripts

    Once you pass all four subjects, you can order your official GED diploma and transcripts through your MyGED account or your state's education department. These are the documents you will need for jobs, college, and financial aid applications.

The Four GED Subjects

The GED test covers four subject areas, each taken as a separate test. Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes) covers basic math, algebra, geometry, and data analysis -- an on-screen calculator is provided for most of the test. Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes) tests reading comprehension, writing, grammar, and includes a 45-minute extended response essay. Science (90 minutes) covers life science, physical science, and earth/space science with short-answer and multiple-choice questions. Social Studies (70 minutes) tests U.S. history, civics and government, economics, and geography. You need a minimum score of 145 out of 200 on each subject to pass. Scores of 165-174 earn a GED College Ready designation, and scores of 175+ earn GED College Ready + Credit, which may qualify you for college credit.

GED vs. HiSET -- Which Should You Take?

The HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) is an alternative to the GED offered in many states. Key differences: The HiSET tests five subjects instead of four (it separates Reading and Writing into two tests). The HiSET is available in both computer and paper-and-pencil formats, while the GED is computer-based only in most states. HiSET costs vary but are generally similar to GED costs. Both credentials are equally recognized by employers and colleges. Check which tests your state offers -- some states offer only GED, some only HiSET, and some offer both. If you prefer paper-and-pencil testing or if HiSET is cheaper in your state, it may be a better option for you.

Free GED Prep Resources

GED.com offers free practice tests with sample questions for all four subjects, a calculator reference sheet, and math formula guides. Khan Academy (khanacademy.org) provides free lessons in math, science, reading, and writing that align with GED content. USAHello offers a free GED preparation course with 68 video lessons and over 700 quiz questions in English and Spanish. GCFGlobal.org offers free GED prep resources online. Your local public library likely offers free GED prep books, study guides, and may provide free access to online learning platforms. Many libraries offer free access to LinkedIn Learning and other educational databases. Adult education centers and community colleges in your area often offer free or low-cost GED prep classes with in-person instruction. Call your local school district or community college to ask about programs.

GED After Incarceration

If you are currently incarcerated, the Federal Bureau of Prisons requires inmates without a high school diploma or GED to participate in literacy programs for a minimum of 240 hours or until they earn their GED. Most state prisons also offer GED programs. These programs are free and include classroom instruction in all four subject areas. Contact your facility's education director to enroll. If you have been recently released and did not complete your GED while incarcerated, you can still access free GED prep through reentry programs, adult education centers, and workforce development offices. Studies show that earning a GED while incarcerated significantly reduces recidivism -- people who earn their GED return to custody at lower rates than those who do not. Your GED is a real credential that employers and colleges recognize, regardless of where you earned it.

Testing Centers and Scheduling

You can find GED testing centers near you at ged.com. Create a free MyGED account to search for testing centers, schedule tests, and track your scores. Most testing centers are located at community colleges, adult education centers, and workforce development offices. You can also take the GED online from home through OnVUE online proctoring -- you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone, and a stable internet connection. Online testing is available 24/7 in most states. If you need testing accommodations for a disability (extra time, screen reader, separate room, etc.), you can request them through your MyGED account. Allow extra time for the accommodation review process.

Tips for Passing the GED

Start with a practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses -- focus your study time on your weakest areas. Study consistently, even if it is just 30 minutes a day. Use free resources like Khan Academy and your local library before paying for prep courses. Consider taking your strongest subject first to build confidence. Take advantage of the GED Ready practice tests (about $6 each on ged.com), which are the most accurate predictor of whether you will pass. If English is your second language, the GED is available in Spanish, and some states offer it in French. If you do not pass a subject, you can retake it -- most states allow retakes after a short waiting period (often 60 days for a third attempt). Do not give up.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the GED test?
The GED is designed to be equivalent to what a high school senior should know. The difficulty depends on your starting level. If you have been out of school for a while, plan to study for several months. The math section is the most challenging for many people. With consistent preparation using free resources, most people can pass. About 80% of high school seniors would pass the GED if they took it.
Is there an age limit for the GED?
There is no upper age limit. You must generally be at least 16-18 years old (varies by state) and not currently enrolled in high school. Some states require a waiting period after your high school class would have graduated. People of all ages earn their GED -- it is never too late.
Can I get a GED with a felony on my record?
Yes, absolutely. A criminal record does not prevent you from taking the GED or earning your high school equivalency credential. Many people earn their GED while incarcerated, and it is a common first step in rebuilding after incarceration. Your GED is the same credential regardless of where or when you earn it.
Do colleges accept the GED?
Yes. The GED is accepted by virtually all U.S. colleges, universities, community colleges, and trade schools. A GED is treated the same as a high school diploma for admission and financial aid purposes. You can apply for Pell Grants and other federal financial aid with a GED.
How long does it take to get a GED?
Study time varies widely depending on your starting level. If you have strong reading and math skills, you might be ready in a few weeks. Most people study for 2-6 months. You can take the four subject tests over any period of time -- there is no deadline to complete all four. Your passing scores do not expire (in most states) until a new version of the GED is introduced.
Can I take the GED in Spanish?
Yes. The GED is available in Spanish in most states. The HiSET is also available in Spanish. Check with your state's education department or testing center for availability. If English is your second language, you may also be able to take advantage of ESL classes at your local adult education center.
What if I fail one of the GED subjects?
You can retake any subject test that you did not pass. Most states allow the first two retakes with no waiting period, but require a 60-day wait before a third attempt on the same subject. You only need to retake the subject(s) you did not pass -- your passing scores on other subjects are saved.
Is the GED available online?
Yes. You can take the GED online from home through OnVUE online proctoring. You need a computer with a webcam, microphone, and reliable internet. Online testing is available in most states and can be scheduled 24/7. Some people prefer in-person testing at a testing center, and both options are equally valid.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal or professional advice. Program availability, costs, and eligibility may vary by location and change over time. Contact programs directly for the most current information. For help finding education and training programs in your area, call 211 (free nationwide helpline) or visit your local American Job Center.

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