GED Practice Test

Did you know? The GED test is accepted by nearly all U.S. colleges and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma. Passing the GED examination demonstrates you have the critical thinking and problem-solving skills required for success in higher education and the workforce. For additional test preparation, try our ACT practice test.

GED Test Format

The GED is four separate, computer-based subject tests administered by GED Testing Service, and you can schedule and take each one on its own day. Every subject uses the same 100–200 point scale and the same 145 passing score, but each has its own time limit and question mix:

• Mathematical Reasoning — 115 minutes, about 46 questions in two parts (a short no-calculator Part 1, then a calculator-allowed Part 2 using the on-screen TI-30XS).
• Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) — 150 minutes, about 46 questions plus a 45-minute extended-response essay.
• Science — 90 minutes, about 40 questions covering life, physical, and earth/space science.
• Social Studies — 70 minutes, about 35 questions covering civics/government, US history, economics, and geography.

You need 145 or higher on each subject to pass it; 165–174 earns "GED College Ready" status and 175–200 earns "GED College Ready + Credit" (up to 10 college credit hours at participating schools). Source: ged.com.

For a fuller set of questions on this topic, see our free ged practice test pdf resource.

GED Test Costs

GED Testing Service does not set one nationwide price — each state sets its own per-subject testing fee, so the total for all four subjects typically runs about $120–$160, though this varies by state. As examples for September 2026: Ohio charges $36 per subject, Florida $38, California $41, and Texas $36.25 in person or $42.25 online. Some states offer vouchers or fee waivers through adult education programs, so check your state’s official GED page for the exact current fee before you pay. Source: ged.com.

Before paying for the real test, most students take the official GED Ready practice test ($7.99 per subject or $25.99 for all four) to check readiness — a "green" (Likely to Pass) result is also required if you want to test online with a proctor. Source: ged.com.

Many states and local adult education centers offer free online ged programs or vouchers to cover testing fees. Check with your local workforce development center or library for assistance opportunities.

Your GED diploma is valid for life! Unlike some certifications, you do not need to renew it. Keep your transcripts safe, as you will need them for college applications and job verifications. Explore our what does ged stand for guide.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Sample GED Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free GED practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

1. A scientist wants to test whether a new fertilizer increases plant growth. Which variable should be kept the same in all test groups?

   • A. The amount of fertilizer applied
   • B. The type of plant used and amount of sunlight received
   • C. The expected growth rate of the plants
   • D. The conclusion drawn from the results

Answer: B. The type of plant used and amount of sunlight received

In a controlled experiment, all variables except the independent variable (fertilizer) must be kept constant so results can be attributed to the fertilizer alone.

Answer: C. To persuade readers that elementary school homework should be eliminated

The author presents multiple arguments (research, child development, international comparison) all in support of one position: eliminating homework. This pattern is characteristic of persuasive writing.

Answer: B. 84

To find the median, first arrange the scores in order from least to greatest: 76, 76, 82, 84, 88, 91, 95. The median is the middle value. With 7 scores, the middle is the 4th value, which is 84. The mean (average) would be 592 ÷ 7 ≈ 84.57, but that is not the median.

Answer: C. 28/466 x 27/465

466 students took the test, which was administered in English. 28 people received a score of 70 or above. The likelihood that the first student will receive a score of 70 or higher is 28/466. The likelihood that the second student will receive a score of 70 or higher is 27/465. The odds of both students receiving a score of 70 or higher are 28/466 × 27/465.

Take the full GED practice test

For a fuller set of questions on this topic, see our free practice test for ged resource.