According to GED Testing Services, the GED test began during World War II as a way for soldiers returning from war to finish school and enroll in college or obtain employment. The GED test in the 1940s tested social studies and science knowledge, mathematics, English and literature. The GED test underwent revisions in the 1970s, 1980s and in 2002. The GED is currently undergoing another revision -- a new version will be rolled out in January 2014.
The current GED test, which ends in December 2013, tests reading, writing (which includes grammar and mechanics), science, social studies and mathematics. Currently, students can take the GED tests on paper or on the computer, but according to the GED testing service, the test will only be offered on computer come 2014. The new 2014 test will have four sections: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science and Social Studies.
The GED test is a national test, which means that no matter where someone takes it, the test format is the same. Also, according to the GED Testing Service, the test scores are transferable from state to state, so adult students can take their scores with them if they move from one region of the country to another. In fact, GED scores are also used in Canada. The 2014 test, because it's on the computer, will allow for same-day score reports.
Adults who have taken the GED in the past, and have not passed all parts of the test already, need to hurry. Once the 2014 test rolls out, any prior test scores from GED tests that haven't been completed will become invalid. There are free websites for adults who want to study for the GED to brush up on their skills before they take their test. Many communities also have GED classes for adults, some with free childcare.