The Pennsylvania GED

What is the Format?

You will be tested in five areas of study: Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Language Arts: Reading and Language Arts; Writing. The total testing time for all five sections is seven hours and five minutes. Most test questions will be multiple choice. The biggest exception to this rule is Part II of the Writing section of the GED. Here you will be expected to write a well-developed essay on a general topic within 45 minutes. The last thing you need to know is that you will be given a calculator to use during the Mathematics test Part I, but you won't be allowed to use one on Part II.

How is the Exam Scored and What if I Don't Pass?

To pass the Pennsylvania GED you cannot score lower than a 410 on each of the five sections. In addition, Pennsylvania requires that you earn a total of 2250 points. As the Pennsylvania Department of Education website states, www.able.state.pa.us, this means that you need to score an average of 450 on all tests in order to meet the 2250 total.

So, what happens if you took the test and didn't pass? Don't worry. Since there are three versions of the exam, you are allowed to retest each section three times a year. This gives you plenty of time to sharpen your skills and prepared for the next go around.

Who is Eligible?

You are eligible to take Pennsylvania's GED if you must meet the following requirements:

• You are 18 or older.
• You are a Pennsylvania resident.
• You aren't enrolled in a public, private or any other type of accredited secondary school.

There may be some exceptions to the above rules. If you don't meet the above qualifications, the best way to determine the most up-to-date eligibility is to contact your local testing center. Otherwise, you can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website at www.able.state.pa.us.

How do I Register for the Test and What Will it Cost?

You are fortunate to be a Pennsylvania resident looking to take the GED, because there are over 150 certified testing centers to choose from. To get the complete list, visit the following Pennsylvania Department of Education link: www.able.state.pa.us.

The cost varies for each testing center, so call your nearest testing center for the exact amount. Pennsylvania's Department of Education states a cost range between $40-$60 for the entire five test GED exam. Be aware that you may have to pay retesting fees as well.

How do I Prepare?

You are encouraged to attend a preparation class to improve your score on the GED. GED preparation classes are available in many areas throughout the state - and many are free. As the Pennsylvania Department of Education notes, you can call several hotline numbers to either reach an automated machine or a professional. You may also prepare for your GED online or by using workbooks and/or videos (many GED study materials are found at your local library.)