GED Information

GED stands for general education development, though it's commonly referred to as the high school equivalency test. It's a test developed to accurately measure the level of understanding and knowledge of those individuals who were unable to receive a high school diploma. Common reasons for missing out on a high school diploma can include anything from immigration to the United States or Canada, homeschooling, leaving high school early due to a lack of interest, the inability to pass required tests, or personal problems.

To receive a GED diploma, a person must pass all five of the required tests in writing, reading, social studies, science, and math. Successfully passing these tests certifies attainment of the specific knowledge and skills that high school graduating seniors are expected to possess. In addition to English, the GED test is available in Spanish, French, large print, audiocassette, and braille.

To pass the GED, you must perform in at least the 40th percentile of high school seniors nationwide, though individual states can set their own requirements for passing. Some states also require that students take an additional test showing an understanding of federal, state, and/or local government.

More than 15 million students have received the GED since its inception. One in every seven Americans with high school credentials received the GED, as well as one in twenty college students. 70% of GED recipients complete at least the 10th grade before leaving school, and the same number are over the age of 19, with the average age being 24.

Did you also know ...

The GED Tests are available in all fifty states, the District of Columbia, many U.S. territories, and most Canadian provinces.
Two out of three GED graduates want to continue their education.
More than 90 percent of U. S. colleges and universities admit students with GED diplomas.
Individuals who obtain scores high enough to pass the GED 2002 Series Tests outperform approximately two out of every five of today's high schools seniors.
People from all backgrounds take the GED Tests.
GED graduates include: Bill Cosby, Dave Thomas (Wendy's founder), Jim Florio (New Jersey Governor), Ben Nighthorse Campbell (U. S. Senator), Michael J. Fox.