What is the Format?
The GED exam is made up of four sections: Reasoning through Language Arts (RLA); Social Studies; Science; and Mathematical Reasoning. The Mathematics section of the exam has two parts. Part I of the Mathematics section allows the use of a calculator which is available as part of the online test, but Part II does not allow you to use a calculator.
The RLA section has three parts: Part II of the RLA section requires you to write an essay in 45 minutes. The types of responses on all the tests vary and include fill in the blank, multiple choice, drag and drop, hot spot, short answer, and extended response.
How Is the Exam Scored?
The possible score on each individual test is a range between 100 (lowest) and 200 (highest.) To pass the GED exam, according to the GED website, you must earn both a minimum score of 150 on each test and a total score of 600.
Who Is Eligible?
Anyone over 18 who is not enrolled in high school and does not have a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants who are 16 or 17 may take the test if they obtain an age waiver, enroll in basic adult education classes, take the official practice test and get approval from the GED state administrator.
How Do I Register and What Does it Cost?
You need to register online at www.ged.com. The Wyoming Community College Commission provides a list of the testing centers located throughout Wyoming. There is a $120 fee, due at the time of registration, for taking the entire GED exam.
How Do I Prepare?
If you study independently, consider the following recommendations:
- Visit your local library and use its study materials.
- Find free GED lessons and practice tests on the Internet, including at the GED website www.gedmarketplace.com.
- Buy your own GED study materials at your local bookstore or online.
If you choose to take a preparation class, you should try to contact your nearest testing center. If they don't offer preparation classes, then they probably know a local place that does. Otherwise, the nearest community college and adult learning center may offer preparation classes.
Are There Other Equivalency Options in Wyoming?
As of January 2014, Wyoming will also offer the HiSET exam for your high school equivalency certificate. This is an affordable test which includes the ability to take two retests within a year. The HiSET is accepted by all institutions that accept the GED.
The TASC is the third high school equivalency option for Wyoming residents. Like the GED and HiSET, TASC covers reading and writing, science, social studies and mathematics. Both of these high school equivalency options offer test preparation resources and you can enroll in adult classes that will prepare you to take either of these tests.
