Know Whats On The Test
The GED is broken into four separate exam topics. Youll need to be well-versed in all of these subjects to pass the exam. The topics you will be tested on include:
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Reasoning through Language Arts
The GED is not a test of rote memorization, so make a study plan where youre practicing your ability to reason, analyze, draw conclusions, and present answers.
How Long Are Traditional Ged Classes
Suppose you decide to take traditional classes provided by one of the numerous schools across the nation.
In that case, you are expected to attend classes for about 4-12 months. Schools offer different levels of preparation classes to fit the different levels of their students knowledge and skills levels.
The most popular option is that a student attends one subject class . You may even enroll in college and simultaneously work toward your GED diploma and attend college-level coursework.
For example, you can study 1 time per week and spend 2 hours every time. In this case, you should be ready to pass all 4 GED tests in about 1 year.
If a school schedule allows for it, and you have time, you can combine 2 subject classes and speed up your learning time.
These traditional programs work with skilled instructors and often provide GED classes at no cost to adult learners who left high school without a diploma.
Generally, to follow these GED prep programs, students need to attend a GED orientation session at a prep center to enroll in the GED classes.
Orientations are approximately 2 hours long.
It is not uncommon that there are waiting lists, and priority registration is given to students who previously enrolled on the class waitlist.
So, if you decide that you would like to attend a GED preparation class, find a school close by your location and check availability so you can appear at an official testing center fully prepared and work towards a fulfilling career.
How To Schedule Your Test
The GED exam is entirely computer-based, and to take the exam , you must set up an account on the website GED.com. You need to schedule the tests in advance through your online account.
You can choose the date and time that suits you best but make sure youll be alert and optimally prepared. Keep in mind that you can take the GED subtests separately or all at once. It all depends on your preferences. The tests can be taken at a GED test in your area or online. To be able to schedule the test, you need to:
- Set up your account on the website GED.com
- Log into your GED.com account
- Select the subject test you wish to take
- Choose the date and time that suits you best
- Pay online for your chosen test with a credit or debit card
To be eligible for taking the GED exam online, you will first have to attain sufficient scores on the GED Ready® practice test. For each subtest, theres a separate GED Ready test, so youll have to take four of these practice tests. If you dont reach sufficient scores, you will not be able to register for the exam online.
Many companies offer college tuition support programs, so once youve secured your GED and decide to work with Amazon or Disney, for example, you can also benefit from the educational initiatives created by some of the leading corporations in the nation. You can learn more here.
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Higher Education Agencies And Employers
If you are considering hiring or enrolling persons who state that they passed a California High School Equivalency test and you want the best assurances that the documents they have are official, you should request that they provide an original HSE Transcriptnot a copy. As with a high school or college transcript, this official transcript will show you whether they did indeed pass their HSE test. Certificates have, unfortunately, been forged however, California HSE Transcripts are designed with many security measures that ensure that they cannot be replicated.
Beginning July 1, 2020, the official California HSE Transcript paper will have the following security features:
- The authentic document has California High School Equivalency printed continually across the face.
- The words unofficial and copy appear on a photocopy of the document.
- Hidden UV fibers appear under black light.
- On the face is a color artificial watermark of the Department of Education seal.
- The signature and seal in the bottom right corner of the face of an authentic document is printed with gradient color.
- On the back of an authentic document a custom anti-copy artificial watermark can be seen when held at an angle.
- The authentic Department of Education seal on the back will change from color to clear when rubbed or warmed.
- When this paper is touched by fresh liquid bleach, the authentic document will stain.
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Is Earning A Ged Easier And Quicker Than Completing High School

Dont think that there is an easy way of earning a high school diploma or a GED certificate. The passing standards for passing the GED test are set in such a way that more than forty percent of all high school graduates would not be able to pass the GED tests on the first try.
Sure, with a lot of hard work and a lot of intense preparation, some students might pass the GED sooner than they would finish high school but this path is definitely not for everyone!
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You Can Go At Your Own Pace
The HiSET® exam is about seven hours from start to finish. These seven hours are broken out into five subtests that you can take on different days over a period of time.
How long it will take to complete the entire exam taking and passing all five subtests and receiving your high school equivalency credential depends on you. Lots of things can affect how long it takes, including:
- your level of education
- how much time you have to study
- whether or not you pass each subtest on the first attempt
- how quickly you want to take the test
For some people, it takes a few weeks for others, a year.
Do I Qualify For Ged Testing
GED testing is for individuals who never completed their regular high school education. You cannot be currently registered for another educational program and not already hold a high school diploma.
In most states, you must be at least 18 years old but 16 and 17-year-olds may in most states qualify as well if they meet strict underage requirements. To learn all about the GED age requirement in your state, < – check this article.
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I Already Passed The Ged Course Where Can I Get My Ged Diploma
The GED test — a five-section, multiple-choice exam with one essay section — offers you an opportunity to earn an alternative to the high school diploma. You’ll need a minimum score of 410 on each section and a minimum total score of 2,250 to pass. If you took the GED test and passed, a few options are available for getting your GED diploma.
What Does The Ged Exam Cost
The GED diploma that youll receive after passing the four independent GED subtests costs nothing but the cost of GED testing is, in most states, between$120 and $160.
There are also states that subsidize GED testing entirely or partially.
Please beware of fake GED Certificates. Online-bought so-called GED degrees are not even worth the paper theyre printed on and schools and employers can very easily verify if your credential is fake or not.
These things are worthless and might even get you in trouble so please dont even think about it!
For the cost of GED testing in your state, < – check out this post.
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Requesting Ged Records From The Minnesota Department Of Education
If you just passed your GED test, the Minnesota Department of Education will automatically send you a diploma and transcript using the mailing address you have in your GED account. Please make sure your address is correct. It typically takes three weeks since the final test passing date for you to receive your High School Equivalency diploma and record via U.S. Mail.People can request a GED diploma or transcript by completing and submitting a GED Records Request Form . The one-page request form lists three options for submitting the request:
GED records will be sent out from our office via U.S. Mail, typically within three to five business days of receiving the request.
Effective March 18, 2020: Please note the Minnesota Department of Education does not allow GED diploma holders to pick up GED records at the Minnesota Department of Education to help ensure public and staff safety. Until further notice, we will also not be allowing people to create appointments to pick up records.
The TestIn Minnesota, individuals who do not have a high school diploma may be able to earn a state of Minnesota GED® Diploma by passing the GED test. The four tests in the GED battery measure academic competencies similar to many of those required of a Minnesota high school graduate.
Transcript Of Military Training And Work History
If you were enlisted in the military and need proof of education or work history to apply for credit for prior learning at a college or university, visit our military resources page for who to contact for each service branch.
DISCLAIMER: This office cannot give legal advice to any individual or take any legal action on behalf of any individual.
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How Long Does It Take To Get A Ged
It can take about 2 months to get your GED diploma if you study 3 times a week for at least 2 hours per day. If you would learn only 2 hours per week, it will take a year to prepare for the GED test. You can also get your GED diploma in a week.
It all depends on how you prepare for the GED test. Do you want to attend traditional classes or take an online course? Or maybe you dont want to use any prep? Use our calculator published below to create your own scenario.
Are Testing Accommodations Available To People With Disabilities

Yes. When you create an account on GED.com, youll be asked if youd like accommodated testing. Select Yes, and youll receive additional information on how to submit an accommodations request. Each request is considered on a case-by-case basis and typically takes 30 days to process after you submit the required forms.
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Is There A Paper
Paper-based GED testing is NOT possible. The HiSET test is available both on paper and on a computer, but the GED is offered exclusively in a computer-based format.
Be aware, though, that in New Jersey, a state that offers both options, only computerized testing is possible. If you want to see which option, the HiSET or GED, your state uses, < – go to this post.
I’m Younger Than 19 Years Old What Should I Do
If you are 16, 17 or 18 years old, you must submit a Request for Approval to Test form OR a Notarized Statement/Letter for Home School Students to the test center:
- If you attended high school, the “Approval to Test” form must be completed by your last Washington high school or the school district office in which you now reside. This releases you from the district to take your GED® tests. Contact your high school or school district office to request a completed form.
- Home schooled students need to complete and submit a notarized form called the “Notarized Statement/Letter for Home School Students.” Contact your local test center to get a form.
- You will not be able to complete test registration until a form has been submitted and recorded by the test center.
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Must I Take A Ged Prep Class Before Ged Testing
In most states, you can sit for the four GED tests without first having to attend a prep class or completing a practice test.
However, the GED video lessons and practice tests offered for free on this website are great support tools to get you all set for the real thing. Check here for all GED requirements by state.
How Long Does It Take To Get Your Ged
Completing your high school education can hold the key to a better future, and taking the GED test offers the chance of earning a diploma in a matter of months. With enough preparation and dedication, you can get your GED certificate. If youve been wondering how long it takes to get your GED, heres an overview of the process.
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How Do I Request A Duplicate Transcript And/or Diploma For A College Employer Or Myself
There is a $15 fee charged for each duplicate transcript or diploma ordered. You will have a choice of an electronic or printed credential. You should verify which type of credential will be accepted by your employer and/or college prior to placing your order.
If you earned your diploma in Florida after January 1, 2014, you can order duplicate credentials in your GED® account at GED.com. After logging in, go to My Scores and select Order Duplicates. Carefully follow the instructions presented during the order process.
If you earned your diploma in Florida prior to January 1, 2014, you can request your duplicate credentials here. Carefully follow the instructions presented during the ordering process.
If you have questions about your duplicate credential order, review the support page.
Duplicate diplomas and transcripts cannot be picked up in person.
How Long Are Online Ged Courses
When you decide to sign up for the online GED prep course, you have more flexibility. Usually, online courses are self-paced, so you choose how long and how often you want to learn.
The beauty of online GED courses lies in the fact that you decide about your schedule. Online courses are also shorter because the lessons are very focused and straight to the point.
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What Is On The Ged Test
The GED exam is made up of four separate tests. To pass the GED exam, you must have a well-rounded knowledge of whats on these subject tests. The four subject fields are:
- Mathematical Reasoning
The GED exam is not a memorization test, and you must demonstrate your critical reasoning and analyzing skills and understand how to draw conclusions and come up with answers.
How Long Does It Take To Get Ged Scores

So youve put in the work. Youve studied, taken the entire test, and are on the cusp of personally discovering how long a GED takes to earn. Now its out of your hands, but how long does it take to get your GED scores?
Most people can get their results within a few hours of taking the GED test. If not, expect to get it within 24 hours of completing the exam.
To know whether the results are ready for viewing, you can check your email or log into your GED account online. If its been four business days since your test and you still havent received your results, get in touch with the GED support team. They can help find your information or provide other GED-related assistance.
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Ged Vs High School Diploma
The certificate that youll be awarded after passing the four GED subtests is recognized and accepted just like a standard HS diploma across North America. The GED registration process is quite efficient and takes place online at GED.com.
You may want to check, though, with your preferred college to learn about their entrance requirements so youll meet all their prerequisites.
A student may need all the help he or she can get in order to complete the GED high school equivalency test successfully. Twitter and Facebook may also provide useful information.
Enrolling In A Ged Course
If youre ready to create the future you want by obtaining your GED, you can sign up for a GED course to help you get there. GED courses prepare you to tackle any subject matter that comes your way on testing day. If you prefer an online class, you can get instruction and customized help from top-rated Kaplan instructors.
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Ged Testing And Transcripts
If you have not earned a high school diploma, consider taking the GED® tests. After passing the four-part tests, you will receive a certificate showing that you have the same level of knowledge as a high school graduate. The tests can be taken at a test center or online.
Most colleges and employers accept the GED® credential as being equivalent to a high school diploma. Earning a GED® credential opens doors to college and better jobs.
The GED® exam consists of four separate tests that assess the knowledge and skills equivalent to high school graduates in the following areas:
- Reasoning through Language Arts
You may take the GED® tests if:
- You are at least 19 years old and have not graduated from high school.
- You are not currently enrolled in high school.
- You are an active member of the military, national guard or reserves.
- You have current government-issued photo identification with your name, address, birth date and signature on it.
- You are a current resident of Washington.