Understanding GED Test Scores: What Every Test Taker Should Know

Understanding GED Test Scores: What Every Test Taker Should Know

The GED (General Educational Development) test is designed to assess whether an individual has high school-level academic skills. It's an alternative route for those who didn't complete a traditional high school education, offering a second chance at achieving a recognized educational credential.

But passing the GED isn't just about finishing a test; it’s about understanding the scores and how they impact your educational and professional future.

What Does a Passing Score Mean?

To earn a GED diploma, a candidate must pass four separate subject tests: Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies.

Each of these tests is scored individually. A minimum score of 145 is required on each test to pass. Scoring at or above this level means you have demonstrated the equivalent knowledge and skills of a traditional high school graduate.

If a person scores below 145 in even one section, they do not earn the GED credential and must retake only that specific subject test.

This approach allows for flexibility, as you’re not required to retake the entire series if only one subject falls short.

The GED Scoring Scale

Each test is scored on a scale from 100 to 200. These scores are not simple percentages based on correct answers but are scaled scores, meaning they take into account the difficulty of the questions on your version of the test. This ensures fairness across all test forms.

The score range is broken down into three major categories:

1. 145–164: GED Passing Score

This is the minimum required range. Scoring within this range in all four subjects earns you the GED credential and signifies high school equivalency.

2. 165–174: College Ready

This range indicates a strong academic performance. Many colleges and universities interpret this as readiness to begin credit-bearing coursework without needing remedial classes or placement tests.

3. 175–200: College Ready + Credit

If you score within this highest band, you may be eligible for college credit, depending on the institution. Some colleges offer up to 10 credits across various subjects, which can reduce your tuition costs and time to degree completion.

Understanding where you fall in these ranges helps you not just pass the test but also take advantage of academic or financial benefits.

Why Scores Above 145 Matter

Although a score of 145 will technically allow you to pass the GED and receive the credential, higher scores can open more doors. For those planning to continue into higher education, scoring 165 or above can waive the need for basic skills assessments, remedial coursework, or even introductory-level classes.

For some students, this means saving a semester or more of time and tuition.

Scoring 175 or higher takes it a step further. Some colleges recognize these scores as evidence that you already know the material covered in some general education courses.

This can allow you to receive college credits without taking those classes, offering a head start on your degree.

How Scores Are Calculated

Your GED scores are not calculated simply by counting the number of correct answers. Instead, the GED Testing Service uses a scaled scoring system.

Questions may carry different weights depending on their complexity or format. For example, multi-part questions might be worth more than a single-choice question.

Once your raw score is determined (i.e., the number of points you earned), it’s converted into a scaled score between 100 and 200. This conversion ensures consistency and fairness, regardless of the specific test version you take.

No Overall Average is Required

Unlike some standardized tests, the GED does not use a cumulative or average score across subjects. You must score at least 145 on each of the four subjects, but there is no required overall average.

For example, if you score 170 in three subjects but only 140 in math, you will still need to retake the math test. Each subject is assessed independently.

This structure allows test-takers to focus on individual subjects one at a time. You don’t need to complete all the tests on the same day or even within the same month.

However, some states may require all sections to be completed within a specified timeframe, typically one to two years.

Retaking the GED

If you don’t pass a test section on the first try, don’t worry. You are allowed to retake failed sections.

While specific rules vary by state, most jurisdictions allow multiple attempts per year, sometimes with waiting periods between attempts. Some states also provide discounts or waive fees for the first few retakes, but charges may apply after that.

It’s essential to understand your state’s retesting policies so you can plan accordingly and improve your performance through targeted preparation.

Percentages vs. Percentiles

A common point of confusion is the difference between percent scores and percentile rankings. Your scaled score—say, 165—should not be confused with a percentage score (like 82.5%). The GED does not report the percentage of questions you answered correctly.

Instead, you might see a percentile rank, which tells you how your score compares to other GED test-takers. For instance, being in the 75th percentile means you performed better than 75% of others who took the test.

This information is particularly useful when applying to colleges, as it provides a broader context for your academic standing.

Reading the Score Report

Once you complete a GED test, your official score report will outline your performance in each subject area. It will list your scaled score, your percentile rank, and your performance level (GED Passing, College Ready, or College Ready + Credit).

This document is essential for applying to colleges, training programs, or jobs that ask for proof of GED completion and academic readiness.

Always keep a digital and hard copy of your score report. You may need it for years to come.

Improving Your Scores

To boost your scores, especially if you are aiming for the College Ready or College Ready + Credit range, preparation is key.

GED practice tests, especially the GED Ready test, are valuable tools. They offer realistic simulations of the actual test and provide feedback on your strengths and weaknesses.

Study materials, such as GED prep books, online courses, and tutoring, can also be helpful.

Focus on developing the skills that were identified as areas for improvement in your previous tests or practice exams. Even if you passed all sections, aiming higher could save you time and money in college.

Validity and Security

GED scores do not expire, but individual jurisdictions may require you to complete all four sections within a set timeframe.

If you don’t meet this requirement, you might have to retake sections or start over. It’s essential to verify your local policies through your GED account or state education department.

All test versions are scored using the same scale, ensuring that each test-taker is judged fairly, regardless of which test form they received.

Conclusion

Passing the GED is a significant accomplishment, and understanding the scoring system is crucial to maximizing its value.

Whether you’re aiming for a basic pass or striving to earn college credit, your GED score can shape your next academic or professional step. Make informed choices, prepare wisely, and aim not just to pass, but to excel.