General Information

What Is a GED Test?

The General Education Development test (GED test) covers five subject areas, and the questions in each area cover general knowledge and thinking skills. The GED exam is designed to determine the test-taker's level of skill and knowledge, whether gained in a classroom or through life's experiences.

Why Should I Get My GED?

The GED is deal for those who have not completed formal high school but hope to advance in either their careers or pursue higher education. The exam opens a world of career and education opportunities. A GED or high school diploma is needed for military entrance as well as for many jobs. A GED is also valuable for personal enrichment.

Test Details:

The GED test is a series of 5 tests:

1. Language Arts, Reading 65 minutes
2. Language Arts, Writing 120 minutes
3. Mathematics 90 minutes
4. Science 80 minutes
5. Social Sciences 70 minutes

Each test can be taken and passed individually.

Re-Test Policy:

You must average at least 450 points for all five tests. If you score less than 410 on any test in the five-test battery, you will need to retake it. There is a limit of three retakes per test, per year. Retake fees can vary by location.

Results:

Test results are confidential and given to you in person, or will be mailed to you upon request. After you successfully complete the testing series, an official score report will be available. It takes about 10 days for actual GED certificate to come from the state office.

You must pass each section with a minimum of 60%.

Results Time Limit:

Scores from before January 1, 2002, are no longer accepted for the GED series. People who did not successfully complete the entire battery of tests before that date will need to start over in the new series and pay the $75 testing fee.

Eligibility:

You must be 16 years or older and without a high school diploma or GED.

Preparation:

Local GED instruction and pre-tests are available in White Salmon, Stevenson, and Goldendale. The GED tests are currently only offered in a paper pencil format at Official GED testing centers; they can not be taken online.

Identification:

ALL testers must provide photo identification at EVERY test. Photo identification must be state issued ID or drivers license, passport, or tribal ID.

Accommodations:

If you will need special accommodations in order to take any/all of the GED exams, this must be arranged prior to the testing date. Please contact the Chief Examiner at your location if you have questions.

First Time Testers:

Do the following before your first GED test.

1. If you are between the ages of 16 and 19 you will need one of the following two waivers:

• A completed and signed Request for Approval to test for a Cetificate of Educational Competence from the school district in which you live.
• A notarized statement from a parent concerning your home schooling and requesting that you be allowed to take the GED tests.

2. Call the GED Examiner to set up a meeting for registration. Full registration must be completed prior to exam day.

3. Bring to your registration meeting ALL of the following:

• Photo Identification - State issued ID or drivers license, passport, or tribal ID.
• Your completed waiver, if required. (See #1 above)
• Non - refundable, $75 payments for the GED battery of five tests. This can be either a program payment voucher, money order, or personal check made payable to the Employment Security Department. Cash will not be accepted.