What is the Format?
You are tested on four subject areas in the GED exam:
- Science
- Social Studies
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Reasoning through Language Arts
The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, reading tasks, short answer, and extended response questions. On the mathematics exam, you will only be allowed to use a calculator for one part of the subtest. In total, the GED exam takes about seven and a half hours to complete.
How is the Exam Scored and What If I Don't Pass?
To pass the GED exam, you need a minimum score of 150 on each of the four subject area tests.
If you do not pass, you may retake a section of the exam 2 times without waiting. After the third attempt, a 60-day waiting period is applied.
Who is Eligible?
In South Carolina, the minimum age to sit for the GED exam without exceptions is 19 years old. Individuals who are 17 or 18 must have a completed South Carolina Verification of Withdrawal form from the last school attended. In addition to the withdrawal form, students aged 16 wishing to take the GED must be under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
South Carolina requires test-takers wanting to receive a South Carolina High School Equivalency Diploma be residents of the state.
How do I Register for the GED and How Much Does it Cost?
Registration for the exam is completed online at www.GED.com. In South Carolina, the fee is $37.50 for each of the four subject area tests.
How do I Prepare?
There are many ways to prepare to take the GED exam. For example, the GED Testing Service offers a Marketplace (www.GEDMarketplace.com) with a variety of test preparation material, including practice tests, workbooks, online learning programs, and mobile study apps.
For those interested in in-person test prep, South Carolina's Office of Adult Education provides a list of Adult Ed programs throughout the state.
You may also find GED preparation books at local libraries or bookstores; however, you will need to make sure the prep material is current to the latest version of the GED exam.
