Basic information about the GED Test

The General Educational Development Test offers a person the opportunity to earn a High School Equivalency Certificate. Many people who did not finish high school have knowledge and skills comparable to people who did graduate. This idea is the basis of the GED Testing Program.

The GED Tests are given in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, most Canadian provinces, and the Canadian territories. Each year, about one-half million people earn their High School Equivalency Certificate... a credential recognized as a key to employment opportunities, advancement, further education, and financial rewards.

The GED Test asks questions about subjects covered in high school; Language Arts-Writing (an essay also must be written on a specific topic), Social Studies, Science, Language Arts-Reading, and Mathematics.  In Illinois you also must pass or have passed (in High School) the United States of America and Illinois State Constitution test.

You can take the GED Tests in English, Spanish, or French. Large-print, audiocassette, and Braille editions of the GED Tests are also available for adults with disabilities.

The cost of the test

In Illinois the cost for taking the GED Test for the first time is $35.00. This cost includes the administration of one complete battery of tests and the issuance of the High School Equivalency Certificate, upon successful completion of GED Tests and the Constitution Examination. Each GED Test, with the exception of the Language Arts: Writing Test, requires a $5 fee.  A $10 retest fee is required for the Language Arts: Writing.  No fee shall be charged for the Constitution Test.

Important: All applicants must meet one of the following criteria and have not graduated from an accredited high school in the United States or Canada or is not currently enrolled in high school.