What Is the Format?
Just like every other state, the Hawaii GED is made up of four sections: Reasoning through Language Arts (RLA); Social Studies; Science; and Mathematical reasoning. All responses on the GED exam include multiple choice, drag and drop, hot spot (select an area), fill in the blank, short answer or extended response. In the second section of the three-part RLS, you have 45 minutes to write a well-developed essay. The Mathematical Reasoning portion of the GED has two parts. In part I, you are allowed to use a calculator that is provided by the testing center. However, in Part II, you are not allowed to use a calculator. The GED test is computer-based.
How Is the GED Scored?
The possible scores on each individual exam range from 100 (lowest) to 200 (highest.) In order to pass the GED test you need an minimum score of 150 on each subject of the test and a total score of 600.
Who Is Eligible?
You do not need to be a resident of Hawaii to take the GED. The test is offered to candidates who are over 16 years old, but test-takers under 18 must meed the requirements of the Exceptions to Compulsory Education form 4140 (www.hawaiipublicschools.org/TeachingAndLearning/AdultEducation/Pages/Home.aspx).
How Do I Register for the GED and What Will it Cost?
Registration takes place at the GED website (www.ged.com). Here you'll fill out an application and pay the testing fee. Call beforehand to ensure there is nothing else you need to bring to the test The Hawaii Department of Education provides a link (above) that lists local community schools for adults.
How Do I Prepare?
The Department of Education Adult Education program provides test preparation courses for those wanting to take the GED. If you want to obtain the Hawaii Adult Community School diploma, you are required to take the test preparation course. If you only want a GED transcript, you do not need to take the preparation course. Visit the following website to get a listing of adult education centers near you (www.literacydirectory.org).
If other obligations and time constraints dictate that you have to study independently, there are a few things you can do: use your local library's GED study materials, use the Internet to find free GED preparation lessons and practice tests, or purchase materials at your local bookstore and online. The GED website also offers test preparation materials (http://www.gedmarketplace.com).
Are There Other Testing Options Available?
As of January, 2014 Hawaii also offers an affordable option in the HiSET, which is another high school equivalency examination. This test has five sections:
- Language Arts - Reading
- Language Arts - Writing
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
Like the GED, the HiSET is accepted by colleges and employers. You can learn more about the HiSET at http://hiset.ets.org/about/overview.
