GED format and scoring: subjects, time limits and score levels
Last checked October 15, 2026 · Sources: GED.com (GED Testing Service) test subjects, test scores, GED Ready zones and extended response pages
The GED format is four separate computer-based subject tests: Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes), Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes), Science (90 minutes) and Social Studies (70 minutes). GED scoring runs from 100 to 200 per subject, and you need 145 on each one to pass. Higher scores of 165 and 175 can earn college placement waivers or credit.
GED format by subject
| Subject | Time | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | On-screen calculator and formula sheet; includes 2 minutes of instructions and final review |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts | 150 minutes, including a 10-minute break | Reading, grammar and language, plus a 45-minute essay; includes 3 minutes of instructions and final review |
| Science | 90 minutes | Reading for meaning, experiments, numbers and graphics |
| Social Studies | 70 minutes | Reading for meaning, historical events and arguments, numbers and graphs |
Source: GED Testing Service test subjects page, checked October 15, 2026. The Language Arts break is as described by test centers.
You can take the four subjects one at a time, in any order, at a test center or, in participating states, online. GED Testing Service estimates that taking all four at once would take around 7.5 hours, which is why most people spread them out. Questions use several formats besides multiple choice, such as drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank and drop-down menus. The Language Arts test also includes one essay, called the extended response, which GED Testing Service says makes up about 20% of that subject’s score.
GED scoring: what each score means
| Score per subject | Level | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Below 145 | Below passing | Retake that subject |
| 145-164 | GED Passing Score | Pass; you need this on all four subjects for your high school equivalency |
| 165-174 | GED College Ready | May qualify for waivers from college placement tests or developmental classes |
| 175-200 | GED College Ready + Credit | Skills that could qualify for up to 10 college credit hours |
Source: GED Testing Service test scores page, checked October 15, 2026.
Every subject is scored on its own. A high score in one subject can’t make up for a score under 145 in another, so you need to pass all four. Whether a college actually grants waivers or credit for the higher levels depends on the school’s policy.
How GED Ready predicts your score
The official practice test, GED Ready, uses the same scale. GED Testing Service sorts results into three zones: Green (145 to 200) means you’re likely to pass, Yellow (134 to 144) is too close to call, and Red (100 to 133) means you’re not likely to pass yet. A Green score within the last 60 days is required to take a subject online. Our GED Ready guide explains how to use it.
Subject guides
Calculator rules, formula sheet, topics and worked examples.
→Reading, grammar and the 45-minute essay.
→Life, physical, and earth and space science.
→Civics, history, economics and geography.
→Format tips
- Take one subject at a time so each gets your full focus; GED Ready can tell you which to book first.
- Practice on a computer, since every question and the essay are on screen.
- Learn the on-screen calculator before the Math test, and practice the first questions without one.
- Pace yourself: Social Studies has the shortest time limit, at 70 minutes.
Common questions about GED format and scoring
What is a passing GED score?
145 on each of the four subjects, on a scale of 100 to 200.
How long is the GED test?
GED Testing Service estimates about 7.5 hours to take all four subjects at once. Most people spread the subjects over several days.
Can a high score in one subject make up for a low one?
No. Each subject must reach 145 on its own.
What is a good GED score?
165 to 174 is GED College Ready, which may waive placement tests. 175 to 200 is College Ready + Credit, which could earn up to 10 college credit hours.
Do I have to take all four subjects on the same day?
No. You can schedule and take each subject separately, in any order. GED Testing Service says the test is available in Spanish as well as English.
We first checked these sources on October 12, 2026 and rechecked them on October 15, 2026. MockTestPrep is independent and is not affiliated with GED Testing Service.