The General Education Development program started in 1942 to help returning soldiers obtain their high school diploma credentials. There have been several generations of the test since the inception of the program. As of 2010, the most recent addition was the 2002 series GED test.
The GED Testing Service sets the minimum requirements for age and testing scores; however, individual states have the power to set fees, name credentials (i.e. diploma or certificate) and determine testing eligibility. Age requirements vary and an applicant must not be actively attending a high school.
GED programs cover specific academic content areas that regular high school seniors must master in order to graduate. A GED program covers five critical areas of study: language arts, science, social studies, writing and math.
The GED Test Battery examines a person's understanding of the five content areas. Once an applicant has finished courses and prepared for testing she may proceed to take the test battery. The American Council on Education has direct links to testing centers in each state and provides tips on test preparation. The test has to be taken in person and is not available online. According to the GED Testing Service, the overall minimum score for passing is 2250 and 410 for each individual test.
The costs of the GED program differ according to state. Fees for the GED test can range from $40-$150 and fees for retests can fluctuate from $10 to $25. Again, all fees depend on state of residence.