The General Educational Development (GED) test offers a path to a high school equivalency credential for individuals who did not complete a traditional high school diploma. This credential is widely recognized by employers and colleges, serving as an academic foundation for career advancement and further education. Meeting the specific requirements for eligibility, registration, and academic performance is necessary to earn the credential.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
The foundational requirements for taking the GED test are consistent across the United States, though specific details are determined by each state or jurisdiction. Applicants must not currently be enrolled in an accredited high school program and must not have already received a high school diploma or an equivalent degree. This ensures the test serves its intended purpose as an alternative credential for those who have left the traditional school system.
Age is the most variable requirement, with the general minimum age set at 18 years old in many jurisdictions. Most states allow 16- and 17-year-olds to test under specific conditions. These exceptions typically require official documentation, such as a formal school withdrawal form, a notarized letter of consent from a parent or guardian, or a court order. Some states may also require underage applicants to enroll in a state-approved adult education program before scheduling the exam.
Residency requirements also differ significantly depending on the state where the test is administered. Some states require proof of residency within that state to be eligible to take the test. Other jurisdictions are more flexible and do not impose a residency requirement, allowing individuals to test regardless of their current state of residence. Check the specific rules of the intended testing location, as these state-level regulations govern eligibility.
Identification and Registration Requirements
Registering for the GED test requires specific documentation to verify the applicant’s identity. A current, valid, government-issued photo identification is mandatory for both registration and admission to the testing center. Acceptable forms of ID commonly include a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, or military ID.
The name on the identification document must exactly match the name used during registration to prevent issues on test day. The ID must be non-expired and clearly display the test-taker’s full name, date of birth, signature, and photograph. In some cases, states may require additional proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, especially if the primary ID does not include a current address.
Registration is primarily conducted through the official GED website, requiring the creation of an account using a valid email address. Once an account is established, the applicant can schedule the four individual subject tests. Testing fees must be paid at the time of scheduling, with costs varying by state and whether the test is taken in person or online.
The Passing Score Standard
Earning the high school equivalency credential depends on achieving a minimum academic standard across all four subject areas. The GED test battery consists of four modules: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Each subtest is scored on a scale ranging from 100 to 200.
To pass the GED test and receive the credential, a minimum score of 145 must be achieved on each of the four individual subject tests. The scoring system is non-compensatory, meaning a high score in one subject cannot offset a score below 145 in another. If a test-taker scores below 145 on any module, only that specific subtest must be retaken.
The scoring structure includes tiers that recognize performance beyond the basic passing threshold. A score between 165 and 174 indicates a “College Ready” level, suggesting the test-taker possesses the skills necessary for entry-level college courses. The highest tier, “College Ready + Credit,” is awarded for scores of 175 to 200, which may qualify the test-taker for up to 10 semester hours of college credit at participating institutions.