The real exam, in plain English

How the real GED works.

FinishHigh is your practice gym. The real test is run by GED Testing Service at GED.com. Here is everything you need to know before test day — no confusing language.

The four subjects

Four separate tests. Pass each one with 145 or higher and you have your GED.

Mathematical Reasoning

115 minutes

Calculator allowed on most of it. Formula sheet is provided.

Reasoning Through Language Arts

150 minutes

Reading, grammar, and one written essay (extended response).

Science

90 minutes

Charts, experiments, and short passages. No memorizing needed — it tests reading and reasoning.

Social Studies

70 minutes

Civics, U.S. history, economics, and geography with sources and maps.

How to sign up, step by step

1. Make your free account at GED.com

GED.com is the only official place to register. Create the account with your real name — it must match your ID.

2. Pick test center or online

You can test in person at a test center, or online at home with a webcam (online needs a quiet room and a government ID).

3. Schedule one subject at a time

You do NOT take all four tests in one day unless you want to. Most people schedule one subject, pass it, then book the next.

4. Score 145 or higher to pass

Each subject is scored 100-200. You need 145 on each of the four subjects. 165+ is 'college ready.' If you miss, you can retake.

What it costs

The price is set by your state — usually about $30–$40 per subject at a test center (around $120–$160 for all four). Online testing costs a little more. Some states make it cheaper or even free, and many offer one discounted retake per subject. Check your exact state price on GED.com after you make your account.

Understanding scores

  • 100–144: below passing — retake that subject (you keep the ones you passed).
  • 145–164: PASS. This is the goal line for each subject.
  • 165–174: college-ready — some colleges skip placement tests.
  • 175–200: college-ready plus possible college credits.

Where FinishHigh fits in

Use FinishHigh daily to build the skills and habits: missions, practice questions, the mistake notebook, and the readiness gates. When your readiness page says a subject is strong, schedule that subject on GED.com. Practice here — pass there.

FinishHigh is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with GED Testing Service. GED® is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education, used here only to describe the exam. Prices and rules change — always confirm details on GED.com.