The GED test comprises of five sub-tests. The language arts subtest consists of two sections -- one section includes writing an essay. The other sub-tests include mathematics, social studies and science. You can take the entire exam in one day or separate it into two days. Passing the test entails at least 410 out of 800 on each sub-test and a combined score of 2250 points on the entire test. If you fail one or more sub-test you can retake the sub-test without taking the entire examination again.
Indiana law requires all residents to live in the state at least 30 days before taking the test. If you lived in Ohio and moved to Indiana, you have to wait at least a month before you take the test. The law doesn't take into consideration whether you studied for the test while you were living outside the state or prepared to take the test. The state also requires all residents to be over 17 years old to take the test. For example, if you dropped out of school at 15 or 16 years old, you can study for the GED test. You, however, have to wait until you turn 17 years old to actually take the test.
The state also has other eligibility requirements regarding high school. The GED isn't a do-over. Thus, a resident with a high school diploma from an accredited secondary school can't take the test. To prove eligibility, a resident has to provide Indiana with proof that he didn't graduate from high school such as the Indiana exit interview. The exit interview indicates that you withdrew from high school. Before taking the GED test, you must complete and pass the GED practice test.
The cost to take a GED test depends on the testing site. Indiana has 70 testing centers. The typically cost, however, as of 2008 was $60. A resident who only needs to take one or more of the sub-tests instead of the entire test pays a different fee. Generally, sub-test fees range from $6 to 10 per test.