Frequently Asked Questions  

What is the GED® test?

The GED® test has five subjects in the areas of writing, social studies, science, reading, and mathematics.  Each test requires you to use general knowledge and thinking skills.  Few questions ask you to recall facts, details, or meanings of terms.  The GED® test is designed to measure knowledge and skills that are usually learned in high school classes, but which you have learned through observation, experiences, and informal discussion.

The GED® test demands achievement.  To earn a GED® credential, test takers must pass a seven-hour, five-minute set of tests.  The tests not only cover each subject area (writing, social studies, science, reading, and mathematics) but also test a person's skills at communicating, processing information, problem solving, and critical thinking.  The GED® reflects current high school curriculum standards while including content related to the workplace and community.  The test is also designed so that those who pass them must meet or exceed the performance of the top 60 percent of traditional graduating high school seniors.

Can I take the GED® test online? 

The GED® test is not online.  You must appear in person, at an official GED® testing center.

In an era where everything’s on the Internet, high school diplomas and credentials are easily found. But the GED® test and credential are not online.

There are hundreds of websites offering high school diplomas, GED® credentials, and other degrees. What they don’t tell you is the “accredited degree” they’re offering is practically worthless. These sites are looking to make a quick buck at your expense—and they’re charging anywhere from $50 to $500 to do it.

Learn more about how to spot a scam and where to earn a real GED® test credential. http://www.gedtestingservice.com/testers/test-fraud

Have you been a victim of GED® test or credential fraud? We’re trying to protect our testing program and people like you who need the credential to attend college or get a job. We will track reports to identify repeat offenders so we can report them to law enforcement agencies.

In order for an official complaint to be opened, you must file a complaint with a local official like the police, state attorney general offices, or the Better Business Bureau.

•Contact your state GED Administrator™ office

•Contact your state attorney general

•Contact the Better Business Bureau

•Keep records of everything

Remember, if it seems too good to be true…it probably is. Let’s work together to combat online fraud.

Note: The GED® test cannot be taken online. You must be in an Official GED Testing Center™ to take the real GED® test.

How is the GED® test scored?

Each GED® test is scored on a scale ranging from 200 to 800.  To receive a GED® credential (Arkansas High School Diploma) in Arkansas, a test taker must earn an average score across the five tests of at least 450, with no individual test score below 410.  These score requirements ensure that GED® test takers are able to read, compute, interpret information, and express themselves in writing at the same level as the top 60 percent of graduating high school seniors.  In other words, four out of 10 graduating high school seniors could not pass the GED® test the first time they take them.

How do I study for the GED® test?

Many Arkansas adult education programs sponsored by local school districts, colleges, or  community organizations provide instruction in preparing for the GED® test.  Teachers at these sites can help you decide whether you just need to brush up on your skills or whether you need to have more intensive instruction.  Many GED® examinees need no formal instruction to prepare for the tests; however, study materials can be found in libraries, bookstores, and computer software stores.

Am I eligible to take the GED® test?

You are eligible to take the GED® test if you are not enrolled in and have not graduated from high school and you meet the requirements set by Arkansas regarding age and residency.  You must have an Arkansas driver's license or official Arkansas state picture identification card to take the GED® test or other government ID with proof of Arkansas residency.

What should I do next?

Contact the nearest GED Testing Center^TM  in your area.

How much does it cost to take the GED® test?

At the present time, there is no charge to take the test in Arkansas. However, the test is changing in January 2014, and there may be a charge to take the GED® test credential.

What if I don't pass the GED® test?

If you didn’t earn a passing score on the GED® test, don’t give up. The GED® test isn’t easy—only 60 percent of high school seniors pass the test on the first try.

You can re-take each GED® test subject a total of three times per year; there may be special requirements regarding time and preparation that will apply.  We’ll save your scores on the subjects you did pass and combine them with the scores you receive when you test again.  But remember, the current test retires at the end of 2013 and those scores can't be combined with the new test.  Finish by 2014.

How can I get another copy of my GED® transcript?

You will need to send the state GED® office a request for a transcript or diploma in writing.  In your request, include your name at time of testing, date of birth, Social Security number, where/when you took the tests, specific address of where to send the scores, and your signature.  Mail to GED® Testing, Three Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201 or fax to (501) 682-1982.

For a copy of the form to request an official diploma or transcript, Click Here

What accommodations are available for people with disabilities who want to take the GED® test?

Test Accommodations are available for GED® test takers with documented physical, mental, emotional, intellectual, attention deficit, or specific learning disabilities. 

What do the subject areas cover?

The GED® test certifies high school-level knowledge and skills in the core academic areas of reading, writing, social studies, science, and mathematics.

• The Language Arts, Writing Test includes multiple-choice questions and an essay on an assigned topic.
• The Social Studies Test covers history, geography, civics, government, and economics.
• The Science Test includes earth and space science, chemistry, life science, and physics.
• The Language Arts, Reading Test contains multiple-choice questions that measure your ability to comprehend and interpret workplace and academic reading selections.
• The Mathematics Test includes algebra, geometry, number relations, statistics, measurement, and data analysis.