Adult Education and Family Literacy

GED Testing

The tests were originally developed in 1942 to help returning World War II veterans finish their studies and reintegrate into society. Now, there are more than 3,500 Official GED Testing Centers worldwide.

For more than sixty years, the GED Tests have provided an opportunity for millions of adults to complete their high school education by earning their jurisdiction’s high school credential. The GED Tests provide a uniform measure of high school achievement. Every state and Canadian province recognizes that passing the GED Tests demonstrates knowledge of a traditional four-year high school education. Each jurisdiction issues its high school credential to candidates passing the tests.

In Oklahoma, candidates who successfully pass the GED tests are awarded an Oklahoma State High School Diploma.

What the GED Tests Measure

The GED Tests measure achievement in subject areas similar to a high school program of study. They cover the core academic areas of language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics. The tests measure communication, information-processing, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills in each content area.

Test-takers are not expected to recall precise facts, details, or definitions. Instead, questions require an understanding of broad concepts and generalizations.

The GED Tests include five subject area tests: language arts/writing, language arts/reading, social studies, science, and mathematics. The times allowed and content are:

The complete battery takes approximately 7 ½ hours to complete. Most testing centers give the tests over a period of two days, so you do not have to take all five GED tests in one day. Also, you do not have to take the five subject area tests that make up the GED at one time.

Retesting

GED Testing Service allows candidates to test in each subject area up to three times per calendar year (January 1 to December 31). This corresponds with the number of forms available each year. When you retest, you do not have to retest in all five subject areas. You may choose to retest only in the subject area(s) you did not pass and/or in areas you feel you can improve to increase your average scaled score.

Testing Locations

To find a testing location, please see our list of Oklahoma GED Testing Locations or search http://www.acenet.edu/resources/ged/center_locator.cfm for a location near you.

Passing Requirements

To pass the GED Tests, you need a minimum score of 410 on each of the five tests AND an average score of 450 (2,250 total points). When you pass the GED Tests, you will receive an Oklahoma State High School Diploma, which certifies that you have demonstrated general educational development equivalent to a high school education.  

For assistance in passing the GED Tests, see our section on preparing to take the GED Tests.

Beyond the GED…

The GED high school credential is accepted by more than 95 percent of U.S. employers, colleges, and universities. If you are planning to attend postsecondary education after earning your GED credential, check with the specific college, university, or technical school you plan to attend to determine their specific entrance requirements.

Once you earn your GED credential, your success in life will still depend on your ability to set goals, create a plan, and follow through. You should continue your education and career planning. Below are some resources which may help you plan your next steps.