Understanding General Educational Development [GED]: A Comprehensive Guide

Q: How long does it take to prepare for the GED?

Preparation time varies by individual but typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on prior knowledge and study habits.

Q: Can I take the GED test if I am still enrolled in high school?

No, you must not be a high school graduate or currently enrolled in high school to take the GED test.

Definition & Meaning

The General Educational Development (GED) test is a series of five subject tests designed to certify that an individual possesses high school-level academic skills. It is primarily aimed at those who did not complete high school and wish to earn a high school equivalency certificate. The GED test is administered in person and is not available online. To be eligible to take the GED test, candidates must not have graduated from high school or obtained a GED certificate.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The GED test is relevant in various legal contexts, particularly in education and employment law. It serves as a recognized credential for individuals seeking job opportunities or further education without a traditional high school diploma. Legal forms related to GED preparation and testing may include applications for testing, requests for accommodations, and verification of test scores, which can be managed using templates available through services like US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Must be at least 16 years old to take the test (age may vary by state).
Must not have graduated from high school or obtained a GED certificate.
Consists of five subject tests covering language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Passing score is typically above sixty percent compared to graduating high school seniors nationwide.
Some states may require additional tests, such as an English proficiency or civics test.

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A 20-year-old individual who left high school in their junior year decides to take the GED test to improve their job prospects. After attending GED classes to prepare, they successfully pass all five subject tests and receive their high school equivalency certificate.

Example 2: A 17-year-old student in a state that allows early testing for the GED completes the necessary classes and passes the test, enabling them to apply for college while still in their senior year of high school (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State	Minimum Age	Additional Requirements
California	18	Must pass an additional civics test.
Texas	16	Parental consent required for those under 18.
Florida	18	Must complete a preparation course.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition
High School Diploma	A certificate awarded to students who complete the required coursework and exams in high school.
GED Certificate	A credential awarded to individuals who pass the GED tests, indicating high school-level academic skills.
Adult Basic Education (ABE)	Programs designed to help adults improve basic skills in reading, writing, and math, often as preparation for the GED.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering taking the GED test, follow these steps:

Check your eligibility based on your age and educational background.
Enroll in GED preparation classes to enhance your knowledge and test-taking skills.
Locate a nearby testing center to schedule your GED test.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to GED applications and preparation.
If you encounter difficulties, consider seeking assistance from a legal professional or educational advisor.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Attribute	Details
Typical Fees	Varies by state, generally between $30 and $150 for the full test.
Jurisdiction	Administered by state education departments or authorized organizations.
Possible Penalties	None for taking the test, but failing to meet state requirements may limit educational opportunities.