GED Series Test
The newest version of the GED Test, GED 2002 Series, was released at the end of January 2002. In many respects, the new version of the test is similar to the old version that has just been retired, GED 1988 Series.
The most significant differences are in the Mathematics Test and the Language Arts: Writing Test.
The 2002 Mathematics test will allow examinees to use a calculator for the first time. The calculator may be used only on Part I of the Mathematics test. The calculator will be supplied, during the test only, to the examinee by the testing staff. The testing staff cannot provide instruction at the test on how to operate the calculator. Therefore, all examinees should be familiar with the operations of the calculator prior to coming in to take the test.
The calculator used in the GED 2002 Mathematics Test is the Casio fx260 Solar Calculator. It is available for approximately $12.00 at many stores There are also books available to help you understand the functions that will be used in the GED Test. Practicing the test using any other calculator is not recommended.
The Language Arts: Writing Test has one important difference from the 1988 version. Examinees will need to achieve a passing score on the essay portion of the test. Failing the essay will result in failure of both parts of the test. If the examinee achieves an "Inadequate" score on the essay, the examinee will be required to take both parts over again.
2002 GED Tests
Timing
| Test 1 - Language Arts, Reading | 40 Questions | 65 minutes |
| Test 2 - Language Arts, Writing | Part I = 50 Questions | Total Time: 2 hours |
| Part II = Essay | ||
| Test 3 - Mathematics | Part I (calculator optional) 25 Questions | Total Time: 90 minutes |
| Part II (no calculator) 25 Questions |
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| Notes: The examinees must turn in the calculator and receive Part II at the 45-minute mark. Before the 45-minute mark, an examinee may give up the calculator and receive Part II. After finishing Part II, and examinee may go back and work on Part I, but without the calculator. | ||
| Test 4 - Science | 50 Question | 80 minutes |
| Test 5 - Social Studies | 50 Questions | 70 minutes |
A minimum score of 2,250 points is required to pass the GED Test (average 450 points per test) with no score on any test below 410 points. If you receive a score that is less than the total of 2,250 or any individual test score below 410 points, you must retest. You must complete the GED Test within one (1) calendar year of your first testing date. Examinees who complete the five-test battery within one-year but still have not passed, must successfully complete their testing by December 2010. A new series will start on January 1, 2011 and all previous scores will expire.
Free GED Official Practice Test is available on-line at www.gedpractice.com
Requests for Special Accommodations in the GED Test
Special accommodations in the GED Test are available to candidates who have a documented learning disability, physical disability, or emotional disability. If you are interested in applying for special accommodations, you may disclose this information to the Chief Examiner. However, you are not required to disclose any disability you have or may think you have.
Should you decide to discuss this issue with the Chief Examiner of this test center, she will assist you with the application process. Any discussion related to a documented or suspected disability is confidential.
To schedule an appointment to meet with the GED Chief Examiner, contact Cynthia A. Therrien at 978-556-3447.
