How long do GED scores expire?

GED scores generally do not expire; once you pass the tests and earn your credential, it's valid for life, similar to a high school diploma, with official records kept indefinitely. While there was a cutoff for older test versions (before the 2014 update), passing scores for the current computer-based tests remain valid as long as that version is in use, and the official GED website confirms the credential itself is for life.

How long are my GED scores good for?

Q. When do these GED tests expire? They don't! Since you are not buying vouchers, but actual tests, they don't expire.

How do I find my old GED test scores?

Your transcript is the official record of the GED test subjects that you took and your scores.

Can I say I graduated if I got my GED?

Yes, you can say you "graduated" with a GED, as it's an official High School Equivalency (HSE) credential, but it's best to be specific and list it as "General Educational Development (GED) Certificate" or "High School Equivalency Diploma" on resumes and applications, as it's legally recognized as equivalent to a high school diploma by most employers and colleges. 

How much is a GED in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, the GED test costs $36 per subject, totaling $144 for all four tests, whether taken in person or online, but many community colleges and adult education programs offer the classes and tests for free to eligible students who enroll and meet state requirements, covering the $144 fee and even practice tests. 

Do GED Scores Expire? - Child Welfare Network

What is a good GED score?

A good GED score is typically considered to be a total score of 580 out of 800, or an average of 145 on each of the four sections of the test (Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts).

Can I get a GED fully online?

Yes, you can get a GED fully online in most states, taking the official GED test from home with a webcam and reliable internet, but you must meet specific requirements like passing the GED Ready practice tests (scoring green) for each subject and having a private workspace with four walls and a closed door, all monitored by a live online proctor through GED.com. 

What is the downside to getting a GED?

Cons of The GED: Negative Connotations & Limited Resources

Also, the stigma associated with GED graduates can be an obstacle when applying for jobs or higher education opportunities, especially compared to traditional high school diploma holders.

How do companies check if you graduated high school?

Employers verify high school diplomas by contacting the school's registrar, using third-party background check services like National Student Clearinghouse, or asking candidates for official transcripts, ensuring compliance with laws like FERPA by getting the applicant's consent through a signed release. This process confirms graduation dates, enrollment, and the legitimacy of claimed credentials, helping to prevent hiring risks from falsified information, say resources from GCheck. 

Is it harder to get into college with a GED?

It's not necessarily harder, as ~98% of US colleges accept GEDs, but it can add steps and requires demonstrating readiness, often meaning higher GED scores, ACT/SAT scores, strong essays, recommendations, or starting at a community college to prove academic capability before transferring to a 4-year university, especially for competitive programs. A GED is equivalent to a diploma, but sometimes requires extra effort to overcome lingering perceptions or meet specific admissions criteria. 

How much does a GED transcript cost?

The cost for a GED® transcript is $15 (unless you took the GED® test in Kansas, where the transcript costs $20). Some states/jurisdictions only allow you to order your transcript; others may offer diplomas and certificates too.

How to find overall GED score?

Scores are usually available within 24 hours of testing. Although sometimes scores may take up to 3 business days to process and post to accounts. You will get an email informing you of when your test score has been added to your account. Log in to GED.com to see your scores under the My Scores section.

Where are GED records kept?

For example, in some states, copies of GED diplomas and transcripts are provided by the organization where you took your GED test. Others are kept with the state agency in charge. We recommend everyone keep records regarding where and how you took your test.

Does GED have an expiry date?

We are often asked, “Do GED Test Scores Expire?” Well, if you took the GED subject tests of the latest edition (computer-based), your scores do not expire.

What is the hardest GED test to pass?

Most GED test-takers find the Mathematics section the hardest, with many citing challenges with algebra, geometry, and word problems, though some find Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) difficult due to reading and writing. Science and Social Studies are generally considered easier, but difficulty is subjective and depends on your strengths and past education. 

Is the GED test changing in 2025?

Yes, the GED test saw significant updates and changes in 2025, focusing on new question types (drag-and-drop, scenario-based) and higher costs per subject, alongside tech shifts like a new data center for Pearson VUE, all aimed at better aligning it with college and career readiness, but these aren't a brand new version, just continued evolution of the 2014 test, notes a Reddit post. 

Can employers tell if you didn't graduate high school?

High school diplomas can be verified during background checks to confirm educational qualifications. Verification typically includes school name, attendance dates, and graduation confirmation. Details like grades and coursework are not usually disclosed.

Can you verify if someone graduated high school?

To check if someone graduated high school, the most reliable ways are contacting the school/district directly or using online verification services like DiplomaVerify (for employers) with the individual's consent, needing their full name, date of birth, and graduation year; for personal use, asking them or requesting their official transcript from the school/district is best. 

Do employers look down on GED?

Many employers don't care whether you have a GED certificate or a high school diploma, and they consider these options to be equivalent. However, it depends on the company and the position.

Can I say I graduated with a GED?

Yes, you can say you "graduated" with a GED, as it's an official High School Equivalency (HSE) credential, but it's best to be specific and list it as "General Educational Development (GED) Certificate" or "High School Equivalency Diploma" on resumes and applications, as it's legally recognized as equivalent to a high school diploma by most employers and colleges. 

Will Harvard accept a GED?

Yes, Harvard accepts applicants with a GED, as they consider it equivalent to a high school diploma, but admission remains highly competitive, requiring exceptional academic preparation, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and unique accomplishments to stand out, not just the GED itself. 

Is a GED harder than a diploma?

Passing the GED might be harder than you think. It's not easier to get a GED than your high school diploma. The GED exam has become harder for people to pass, especially after the test format was redesigned in 2014.

How hard is the GED test in 2025?

Very few people can pass the test without preparing for it first. As long as you put in the time to learn the skills required to pass, the GED test will be a breeze. Know What to Study. Make a study list of skills you need to review based on the high school equivalency test that you'll take.

What states allow GED online?

Most U.S. states offer online GED testing, but availability depends on state policy, with key exceptions like Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York, and West Virginia not offering it online, while many others, including Texas, California, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, do, often requiring a passing score on the GED Ready practice test and specific system requirements for home testing. States such as California and Texas allow online testing after meeting prerequisites, while some states (like NY, PA) offer free testing but may not have online options, and others (like WV) focus on in-person testing. 

How much is the real GED test?

The cost of the GED test varies from state to state, but in most states, the GED® fee is around $36 per subject test. There are 4 subject tests, so the total price is around $144. Online GED testing is more expensive because you have to purchase four GED Ready tests to qualify for online testing.