Get a GED: GED Facts and Statistics

The GED test, which is short for “General Educational Development,” but also erroneously referred to as the "General Equivalency Diploma" or the "General Education Diploma," is a series of tests that are used to gauge whether or not a person has been adequately educated to be competent at the high school level.

The subjects covered in the GED test are designed to cover the same subjects studied throughout high school and include language arts skills – both reading and writing – mathematics, science, and social studies.  Testing is a two-day process that takes approximately seven hours to complete.  While there are five subjects covered, there are usually six portions as the writing part is actually two sections in question-and-answer and essay format.

Qualifying for the GED Test

There are a few criteria that must be met first in order to be qualified to get a GED, including being a non-high school graduate who is older than 18 years of age, or older than 17 if you had to leave high school due to certain circumstances or have been out of school for at least one year.  Prospective GED test takers must also be a legal citizen of either the United States or Canada.

Registering for the GED Test

GED testing centers are conveniently located in many parts of the world, making it easier for prospective test takers to successfully complete their high school education.  If you reside in either the U.S. or Canada, you can call the 24-hour, toll-free National GED Hotline at 1-800-626-9433 to find the testing site location that's nearest to you.  Different testing centers may have varying hours; some are even open during the evenings and also have weekend hours to accommodate those who work full time.

Also, make sure to find out if your state requires that you take the GED exam in your actual county of residence or if you can take the test anywhere within your state. The fees for the GED test will also vary by state as each center determines its own fees.  On average, the entire test will cost around $100 as well as an additional fee if all or part of the test must be re-taken.

7 Quick GED Facts & Stats

1. Some famous GED recipients throughout history include founder of Wendy's restaurants Dave Thomas, Wally Amos, founder of Famous Amos, Peter Jennings, ABC News anchorman, actor Christian Slater, Danica Patrick, Indy racecar driver, and comedian Bill Cosby.

2. The average age of people who successfully pass the GED exam is 24.4 years of age.

3. The GED test is available in English, Spanish, and French, as well as in large print, Braille, and on audiocassette.

4. One out of every seven high school graduates received a GED as opposed to a traditional diploma.

5. One out of every 20 college students received their GED instead of the usual high school diploma.

6. Just over 70% of all GED recipients had completed at least the 10th grade prior to leaving high school.

7. Since its inception in 1942, over 15 million people have taken the GED test.

Get your GED and put your life back on track!

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