How the GED Test Works
The GED test offers an alternative to a traditional high school diploma. After earning a GED, a student can go on to attend a trade school, community college, or even a four-year university. Learn more from NYADI The College of Transportation Technology, based in Jamaica, NY.
What Is a GED?
Some students attend four years of high school and graduate with a diploma. Their high school diploma certifies that they have met the minimum educational standards required for graduation, typically in areas such as math, science, history, and English language.
Other students earn a high school equivalency diploma, commonly referred to as a GED. A student who earns this type of diploma typically has a different path from the traditional four years of high school. For example, they may attend night school or complete a vocational program.
You may have also heard of students who complete a TASC test. In New York state, the General Educational Development (GED) test has replaced the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) as the primary method for earning a New York State High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma. However, students who have successfully passed the TASC still have a valid HSE diploma.
How the GED Test Works
The GED test that is administered in New York is produced by the GED Testing Service (GEDTS) and is used in many other states, as well. This test has four sections:
- Reasoning through language arts
- Mathematical reasoning
- Science
- Social studies
Students can complete all four sections at once, or schedule them one at a time. If you complete all four sections in one day, it will take about seven and a half hours total.
Eligibility
To be eligible to take the GED test in New York state, you must:
- Have resided in New York state for at least 30 days
- Not currently possess a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma in the United States or its territories
- Meet age eligibility criteria outlined by the New York State Education Department
Registering
To schedule a test, students must create an account and register on the GEDTS website. The cost of testing is covered by New York state for eligible residents. You must take your exam at an approved testing center or while being monitored by an online proctor.
Grading Criteria
Each section of the GED test is scored on a scale from 100 to 200. The test requires a passing score of 145 in each of the four subject areas. A participant will receive their scores within 24 hours of completing the exam.
Benefits of Earning a GED
Obtaining a high school equivalency diploma can open up a range of educational and career opportunities. Most colleges in the US accept the GED test: up to 98 percent, according to the GEDTS. And the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent earn a higher median annual wage, nearly $9,000 higher than the wages of those without formal educational credentials. Plus, after you earn your GED, you’ll have the personal satisfaction of knowing you’ve achieved your educational goals.
Receive Educational Support at NYADI
Located in Jamaica, NY, NYADI is an Ability to Benefit (ATB) Technical College that welcomes students from all walks of life to apply. ATB is a program that helps students without a high school diploma or equivalent qualify for Title IV financial aid.
The program allows students to complete an HSE prep course at the same time they are enrolled in one of NYADI’s academic programs. Students receive thorough preparation for the GED test in the areas of reading, mathematics, writing, science, and social studies, along with academic counseling. Over 120 students have received a GED or TASC diploma through our program. After earning an HSE diploma, students are eligible to earn an Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degree. NYADI offers two AOS programs:
With small class sizes, one-on-one tutoring, and career services, NYADI offers comprehensive support for nontraditional students. Plus, financial aid is available to those who qualify. To learn more about pursuing your career goals at NYADI, register for an upcoming online information session or contact an admissions representative today.
