GED High School Equivalency Practice Test / Full Study Guide

The GED stands for General Educational Development. It is a nationally recognized high school equivalency exam administered by the GED Testing Service.

The GED is designed for adults who did not complete traditional high school but want to earn a credential equivalent to a high school diploma.

GED Subject Areas

The GED has four separate exams:

1. Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)

   • Reading comprehension

   • Argument analysis

   • Essay writing

   • Grammar and language usage

2. Mathematical Reasoning

   • Basic algebra

   • Geometry

   • Word problems

   • Data analysis

   • Calculator and non-calculator sections

3. Science

   • Life science

   • Physical science

   • Earth and space science

   • Reading charts and scientific data

4. Social Studies

   • U.S. history

   • Civics and government

   • Economics

   • Geography

   • Interpreting graphs and historical documents

⏱ Format & Scoring

• Computer-based

• Each subject scored 100–200

• 145 = Passing

• 165–174 = College Ready

• 175–200 = College Ready + Credit

You can take each subject separately, not all in one day.

 GED Outcome

The expected outcome of passing the GED is:

• Earn a High School Equivalency Diploma

• Qualify for college admission

• Meet employment requirements

• Enlist in the military (if other qualifications are met)

• Increase earning potential

In short, the GED restores academic mobility for adults who paused their education.