Understanding and interpreting the GED test score
If you plan to take the GED test soon, you’ll want to know how the test is scored and what score you’ll need to earn your GED, the common term for the General Education Development credential.
The GED test is actually a series of five tests, or a battery of five tests, with a total of 7.5 hours allowed for all tests. The test series covers social studies, science, language arts, or reading and writing, and math. Math tests cover basic number operations, basic algebra and geometry, along with graphing and data analysis. All tests are multiple choice, except for the second part of the writing test, where an original essay is required.
About GED Test Scores
Passing scores for the GED tests may vary slightly from place to place. But in general, most places have adopted the scoring standard set by the American Council on Education, the administrative agency for the GED.
Standard scores for GED tests range from a minimum of 200 to a maximum of 800 on each test. To pass, 60 percent is required. This means you’ll want to score at least 410 on each GED test to pass it and achieve an overall score of 450 for the five-test battery. The score on any individual test cannot be lower than 410, but the average of all scores must be at least 450. This means that if some scores are lower than 450, other GED tests must be well above 450 to qualify. that scores for the five GED tests average a minimum of 450.
Essay score
The two-page original essay is scored differently and accounts for about 40 percent of the overall writing and language arts test score. The score is based on the typed response to a message. The score arises from a combination of measures, including essay effectiveness, organization, idea development, and how focused your essay is on message. The essay is also measured on the proper mechanics of English, such as grammar, punctuation, word choice, and sentence structure. Basically, this means that the score is a double result:
1. How well can you get your point across, stay on topic, stay focused, and create an impression with your words and ideas?
2. Do you have a good basic command of the language and its structure? Is your use of language correct?
What is the pass/fail rate?
Almost half of the people who take the GED fail the first time. The most common reason for failing the GED is not studying the right things. The better prepared you are for the GED test, the better your chances of doing well.
You may want to take an authentic GED practice test first, which will give you an idea of your scores and help you identify study areas, before taking the actual test. Practice tests are also a good way to get familiar with the timing of the test and how it is structured.
What is the most difficult part of the test?
Difficulty is based on the skills, strengths, and weaknesses of an individual’s skills. But most people say that the math and writing parts of the test are the hardest, and the scores reflect this opinion, as the overall pass rate is lower for these tests. Therefore, it is important to understand the test expectations in these areas and how these sections are scored. You’ll want to really examine and understand the strengths and weaknesses of your skills in these areas.
How does the GED score compare to a high school diploma?
GED tests are standardized and normed using a national random sample of graduating high school seniors. To pass the GED exams, a candidate must demonstrate a level of ability that meets or exceeds that demonstrated by 60 percent of graduating high school seniors. In other words, 40 percent of graduating high school seniors would fail the GED exams. So once you pass the GED test, you have a great credential. It reflects high school proficiency and beyond, as it is the ability to apply knowledge, not just remember it, that is assessed. The GED test requires you to show what you know, not what you should know.
taking the test
Once you’re ready, you’ll take the GED test at an official test center. You may want to contact your test center in advance to request a clear definition of scoring for your locality or state. Centers are located in major cities in the US and Canada. For a list of test sites visit: http://www.passged.com/test_state.php#1
Beware: Although some companies and schools claim to offer the GED test or a GED online, it is not possible. The GED is not delivered online, only at official test centers. International tests are also available. However, practice tests can be ordered online and are probably available at your local bookstore.
Get your score and use it
Once you have taken the test, you will receive your scores in the mail. If you pass some parts and fail others, you can retake only the part(s) you failed. You will not be required to take all the tests again. But before you take a test, make sure you study: take a class, relearn, and practice the skills. You’ll also want to check with your testing center to determine if there is a waiting period before retesting and if your center limits the number of times you can retest.