GED FAQ's

IMPORTANT: The current version of the GED test will expire at the end of 2013. The current version, known as the 2002
Series GED test, will be replaced with the new 2014 GED test on January 2, 2014.

Those who have taken the 2002 Series GED test, but not passed all five parts, have until the end of 2013
to pass or they will need to start over again in 2014 with the new GED test in order to receive their high school credential.

What are the GED® Tests?

The GED® Tests are a set of five tests.  The GED® Tests give you a chance to show knowledge you have gained from experience, reading, and self-study.

The five separate GED® Tests are Writing, Reading, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics. Most questions are multiple choice, and you’ll write a short essay as part of the Writing test.

Questions About the GED Tests

What scores do I need to pass?

You must score a total of at least 2,250 points on all five tests. You must score at least 410 points on each test and obtain an average score of 450 for all five tests.

What makes a GED credential "equivalent?

The GED Tests are developed using specifications established by experienced secondary school and adult educators and are reviewed by subject matter experts. Every test question is subjected to multiple reviews by test specialists and external content specialists, and is pretested before becoming part of a final test form. The GED Tests are also standardized and normed using a national stratified random sample of graduating high school seniors. In order to pass the tests, the GED candidate must demonstrate a level of skill that meets or surpasses that demonstrated by approximately 60 percent of graduating high school seniors.

Am I eligible to take the GED®Tests?

To take the GED® Tests in Pennsylvania, you must be a Pennsylvania resident and at least 16 years of age. You are not eligible if you are enrolled in high school or if you already have a U.S. high school diploma.

If you  are considering leaving high school, the GED Testing Service recommends that you first meet with your high school counselor to talk seriously about your decision and the level of academic skill needed to pass the GED Tests.

What happens after I take the Tests?

If you passed, you will receive a Commonwealth Secondary Diploma and a copy of your transcript in the mail about three weeks after your test date.  If you are 16 or 17 years old, you will receive your transcript; you will receive your diploma when you turn 18. If you did not pass, you will receive a copy of your transcript.

How can I prepare for the GED®Tests?

  • For information on GED Preparation classes contact  Marie Banford at 215-504-8553.
  • GED preparation books are available at libraries and bookstores.

If you are interested in taking an unofficial GED Practice Test, you can do so online. See the list of websites below:

How can I get a transcript of my GED® records?

Individuals who have passed the GED Tests may complete a GED transcript request form, then mail in the form with your requried payment. Viist www.paadulted.org and click on the "Get GED Transcript" tab at the bottom of the page for more information.

 GED® is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education and may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the American Council on Education.