What is the Format?
The GED is a seven-and-a-half hour test that covers four subjects: language arts, math, science and social studies. Divided into four parts, the test is taken on computer in English or Spanish. You can take the following four sections all at once, or individually, in any order:
- The Reasoning through Language Arts Test assesses your reading and writing skills. The 150-minute test includes questions that measure your ability to read and analyze text, questions that evaluate your skill at organizing and expressing ideas in clear and effective language and an essay that you will have 45 minutes to draft and write.
- The Mathematical Reasoning Test measures your ability to solve quantitative and algebraic problems. Questions include multi-step problems with proportions, percents and ratios, factoring polynomials, linear inequalities and 3-D geometry problems that ask you to calculate area and volume. You can use a calculator and a formula sheet for most of the questions on the 115-minute test.
- The Science Test is 90-minutes long and assesses your ability to read, understand and interpret scientific ideas and information. The test covers health sciences, Earth and space science and physical science.
- The Social Studies test uses charts, graphs, illustrations, tables and texts to measure your ability to understand and interpret information on U.S. history, geography, economics and government. The test is 90 minutes long and includes a 25-minute essay.
How is the Exam Scored and What if I Don't Pass?
To pass the GED, you need to score 150 on each section of the test or 600 on all four sections. If you earn between 170 - 200 points, you will receive an Honors score. If you score below 150 on any section of the test, you can retake it twice with no waiting period. If you need to take a section a third time, you'll have to wait 60 days. There is no limit on the number of times you can take the tests.
Who is Eligible?
Although you do not need to be a resident of Oregon, you need to be at least 18 years of age to take the GED.
There are some exceptions to this rule. If you are 16 or 17 years old and are enrolled in an Oregon school with an approved Oregon GED Option for In School Youth, or if you are exempted from compulsory school attendance by your school district you may also be able to take the test. You may also be eligible to test if you are legally emancipated or married.
How do I Register for the GED and What Will It Cost?
You can register to take the tests on the GED.com website. You will be able to find test centers throughout Oregon on the site and testing schedules. In Oregon, there is a $38 fee for each section of the test. You can pay the total GED testing fee of $152, or pay individually for each section as you test.
How do I Prepare?
You can study independently by going to your local library and checking out GED testing materials. You can also find study materials online - not only testing materials (some free, others costing money), but also sample tests. Other ways to prepare include contacting your local community college to find out if they offer GED preparation classes and contacting a local testing center.The GED website also has a search tool that allows you to find GED prep classes offered at schools and programs located near you.
