The GED Test is published in English, French, Spanish and Braille. It covers the basic "three R's," plus science and social studies. There are five areas of content, each tested separately. They are:
1. Language Arts, Reading
2. Language Arts, Writing Part I and Writing Part II (essay)
3. Mathematics
4. Science
5. Social Studies
The content is further subdivided. For example, mathematics is subdivided into numbers and operations, measurement and data analysis, algebra, geometry, and standard grids and coordinate planes. The maximum number of points in each area of content is 800. A minimum passing grade in each area is 410, but an overall average of 450 must be attained. There is no penalty for failing the test, but some states do limit the number of times the GED Test can be taken in a calendar year.
The American Council of Education (ACE) administers and grades the GED Test. Its website offers free sample questions for each area. A review of those questions helps a potential test taker identify strengths and weaknesses and determine the need for additional study. Several other websites offer free sample questions, although some require personal information because they are for-profit sites that want to make sales. For a test taker without Internet access, local schools or libraries might be able to assist in obtaining sample prep questions.
This is not an easy test. Language Arts, Reading has 40 questions. There are 50 questions each for Science, Mathematics, Social Studies and Language Arts, Writing Part I. Language Arts, Writing Part II consists of writing an essay. Intense preparation is strongly advised. A variety of free GED preparation classes are available online and in person. Many community colleges provide free or inexpensive GED courses, as do public school continuing education programs. Private, for-profit learning companies also offer GED preparation courses.
The GED Test cannot be taken online. The first time it must be taken in its entirety; after that, each section can be taken individually. Tests can only be taken at an official testing center. The ACE's website provides a ZIP code database of telephone numbers and addresses of local testing centers. Schools, libraries and community colleges can also provide locations. The GED Test is a federal program, but some requirements, like minimum age, vary by state. Specific requirements can be obtained from the testing center.