What should I prepare for GED?

To study for the GED, focus on four core subjects: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies, covering topics like grammar, algebra, U.S. history, civics, life science, earth science, and interpreting data/graphs. Create a study plan, practice with sample tests, and focus on understanding concepts, especially reading comprehension and data analysis, to build the necessary skills for these separate exams.

What should I study for my GED?

The test is broken down into four subjects: language arts, math, social studies, and science. By preparing for each of these individually, you'll be armed with the knowledge you need to pass the GED test.

How do I start preparing for the GED?

One of the best ways to prepare for the GED is to take a practice test. This will give you a good idea of which subjects you need to study for, and it will also familiarize you with how the real test will work. All of the practice tests below are free and can be accessed through your web browser.

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. 

What subject should I study first for GED?

You should study math the most followed by language arts. The math portion can be pretty tricky at times so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with how to use the formulas and finding slopes, fractions, etc.

How I passed the GED

What's the hardest subject in GED?

The hardest GED subject for most test-takers is Mathematics, followed often by Language Arts (RLA) and Science, due to algebra, geometry, and complex word problems. While individual experiences vary, math consistently challenges students with its broad range of topics, from basic arithmetic to functions, making it the subject most often cited as the toughest, requiring focused preparation.
 

Can you self study for GED?

Yes, you can absolutely study for the GED at home using numerous online resources, including official GED.com materials, free platforms like Khan Academy and USAHello, and paid options, but the actual official test must still be taken at a proctored test center, though online testing is now available with live proctoring. You can use self-paced online classes, video lessons, practice questions, and personalized plans to prepare for the Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts subjects at your own pace. 

Is it possible to fail a GED?

If you did not pass one of your GED® test subjects, you are given two subsequent retests, with no restrictions between retakes. If you fail the third or any subsequent retest, you must wait 60 days for your next attempt.

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. 

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 I study for my GED at home?

Yes, you can absolutely study for the GED at home using numerous online resources, including official GED.com materials, free platforms like Khan Academy and USAHello, and paid options, but the actual official test must still be taken at a proctored test center, though online testing is now available with live proctoring. You can use self-paced online classes, video lessons, practice questions, and personalized plans to prepare for the Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts subjects at your own pace. 

How many hours a day should you study for GED?

Achieving success on each of the GED test subjects requires proper preparation. Study for at least 30 minutes each day to keep your brain active. You could even use free GED prep materials online to help you.

What are the 5 GED subjects?

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.

Can I get my GED in a month?

You can pass your GED in just one month — and it's easier than you think. With Onsego's accelerated program, you'll know exactly what to study and how to study it. Thousands of students have already followed this plan and earned their diplomas quickly, without wasting time on things that don't matter.

What books to study for GED?

Top GED Prep Books

• “GED Test Prep Plus” by Kaplan (2021) Kaplan's GED prep book is among the most comprehensive resources available. ...
• “Master the GED Test” by Peterson's (2020) ...
• “5 Practice Exams for the GED Test” by The Princeton Review (3rd Edition) ...
• “GED Study Guide All Subjects” by Mometrix (2021)

Can I get my GED online for free?

Yes, you can get free online GED prep classes and sometimes even free testing, especially through state-funded adult education programs, community colleges, or employer/nonprofit initiatives like GEDWorks (GEDWorks), though the actual official GED test usually costs money, with potential waivers or discounts available for low-income individuals or specific groups. 

Is GED harder than high school?

Getting a GED isn't necessarily harder than high school, but it's different: a diploma involves years of coursework, while a GED requires passing four rigorous, college-level exams (Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts) that test high school equivalency knowledge, demanding strong self-motivation, critical thinking, and focus for a concentrated effort. The GED's difficulty comes from its high standards and self-paced nature, contrasting with high school's gradual, structured learning, making it a tougher choice for some despite its faster completion time.
 

Is GED equivalent to 12th?

The General Educational Development (GED) tests are a group of four academic subject tests in the United States and its territories certifying academic knowledge equivalent to a high school diploma. This certification is an alternative to the U.S. high school diploma, as is HiSET.

Can you use a calculator for GED?

Many students ask us, “Can you use a calculator on the GED test?” Yes, you can use a calculator on the GED test, but only one type: the TI-30XS by Texas Instruments. Students call it a GED Calculator because you can use it on the GED Math, Social Studies, and Science tests.

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. 

Can I get a job with no GED?

Many employers hire workers based on skills, work ethic and personality rather than education. Start by searching online for jobs that don't require a diploma or GED. Many job boards now let you filter results with options like “no degree required” or “no diploma needed.”

Can I pass GED without studying?

Very few people can pass the test without preparing first. The test won't be hard if you take the time to learn about the test and the skills required to pass. The GED tests in 4 subject areas, but you don't have to take all of them at once. You can space them out however works best for you.

What should I study first for GED?

Students will typically focus first on reading as that is the basis of all the things that are on the four GED tests. Then again, students who are naturally more inclined toward mathematics often want to start with that subject.

Do colleges accept a GED?

Yes, you can absolutely go to college with a GED, as nearly all U.S. colleges and universities accept it as equivalent to a high school diploma, but you may need to meet extra requirements like placement tests, higher GED scores, or strong essays/recommendations to get into selective programs. While many community colleges have open admissions, four-year universities might look for strong placement test scores (ACT/SAT) or other indicators of college readiness, with some competitive programs having stricter criteria. 

How fast can I study for GED?

Most candidates for assessment devote about three months to preparing for and taking the exams, according to the GED Testing Service. You can register and sit for the GED or one of its four subject tests at any time.