How many tests does a GED have?

The GED test has four separate subject tests, covering Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies, and you must pass all four to earn your high school equivalency credential, though you can take them at your own pace.

How many tests do you take for your GED?

The GED® test is made up of 4 subjects, broken into separate exams. You don't have to take all 4 tests at once – you can space them out however it suits you and go at your own pace. Here is an overview of what is on the GED, by subject area.

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. 

What are the 5 tests for GED?

The GED® test is made up of 4 subjects area, each tested separately: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science. You don't have to take all 4 tests at once — you can space them out and go at your own pace.

What are the 4 tests for the GED?

The GED (General Educational Development) test consists of four main subject areas: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science.

How I passed the GED

What is a GED passing score?

To pass the GED test, you need a minimum score of 145 on each of the four subjects (Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies), totaling at least 580 points overall, with scores ranging from 100-200 per test. Higher scores (165+) can qualify for "College Ready" or "College Ready + Credit," potentially earning college credit or waiving placement tests, notes the GED Testing Service official page.
 

Do you take all four GED tests at once?

The GED® test covers 4 subjects: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts. You can take all 4 together or one at a time at an official GED® test center when you're ready. If you need a testing accommodation, you can request one prior to scheduling your test.

Is the GED hard to pass?

The GED test isn't inherently "hard," but it requires focused study and motivation, feeling challenging if you lack high school fundamentals, especially in Math, though you only need about 45% correct to pass each section. With proper preparation, practice tests, and a consistent study plan covering high school-level subjects, most people can pass, with many finding it manageable within a few months. 

Is 735 a passing GED score?

GED Passing Score – GED Score System

The maximum attainable score across the four modules is 800, and you are required to earn no less than 580 points across the board. The four tests may be taken separately, so a 580 score is only good if you've reached a 145 score on each of the four sections.

What level of math is on the GED?

The GED math test covers Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, and Graphs & Functions, focusing on applying these concepts to real-world problems, roughly equivalent to 9th-grade math skills but emphasizing practical reasoning rather than advanced algorithms, with topics like fractions, decimals, percentages, equations, and data interpretation being key. You'll use a calculator for most questions, and formula sheets are provided, so it's more about understanding how to use math than complex memorization. 

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 long is a GED certificate valid?

Your GED Diploma Never Expires

Once you've passed all four GED subtests, you've earned your diploma, and that will retain its validity forever!

Can you pass the GED if you fail math?

Can You Pass the GED If You Fail Math? If you fail GED Math or any other test subject, you don't pass the GED exam. However, you might be able to retest up to two times with no restrictions between retakes.

Do I have to pay again if I fail my GED test?

Are There Any Fees for Retakes? Your GED test cost includes a $20 GED Testing Service fee. In the event that you need to retake a GED exam, you do not need to pay the $20 Testing Service fee again. This applies to a maximum of 2 retakes.

Can I do my GED test online?

Yes, you can take the official GED test online from home in most states, but you must meet specific requirements, including a computer with a webcam, a private workspace, a strong internet connection, passing a system check, and scoring "green" on the GED Ready practice test for each subject before scheduling. The online exam is proctored by a live person, just like in-person tests, and the content is identical to the test center version. 

Do GED scores expire?

No, your GED test scores generally do not expire and are valid for life, functioning like a high school diploma once earned; however, this applies to the current computer-based test version, with scores from prior versions (before 2014) often becoming invalid when the exam was updated, requiring you to start over if you hadn't finished then.
 

Is 170 a good GED score?

Pass/High School Equivalency: Minimum score of 145 on each of the four content area modules. (U.S. Only) GED® College Ready: Scores of 165 – 174 on any given GED® test content module. (U.S. Only) GED® College Ready+ Credit: Scores of 175 and above on any given GED® test content module.

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 is the hardest part of a GED test?

Most students consider the language arts subtest of this examination to be particularly challenging, and they often struggle with the most efficient way to study for it and how to get started in doing so.

Will the GED test change 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. 

How to pass GED faster?

Tips on How to Quickly Prepare for the GED test

1. Using self-paced online courses that help you master the four subject areas: Math, Social Studies, Science, and Reasoning Through Language Arts.
2. Taking a practice test to determine subjects that may require more study time.

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 long is GED math?

The GED Math Test is 115 minutes (1 hour and 55 minutes).

Does the GED have an essay?

The GED test is made up of four subjects: mathematical reasoning, social studies, science, and reasoning through language arts (RLA). The RLA subject test includes two parts, one of which is the GED extended response, sometimes called the GED essay.