Common Questions

  • What is the GED?
    It is a test which measures the General Educational Development of individuals who have not graduated from high school, or for other reasons have not obtained a high school diploma. The GED Certificate is awarded to those who pass the GED Test. It is widely accepted as the equivalent of a high school diploma.

    Where do I go to learn more and to register for GED Testing?
    To learn more and to register for GED exams, do to www.GED.com.  This site provides information about GED Testing, Registration and provides resources to prepare for the GED exam.

    Why do I need the GED?
    Your GED will enable you to enter college, get a better job, qualify for employment promotions, or establish your own best feelings about yourself. For whatever reason you may have missed out on obtaining a high school diploma, the GED will help you prove that your knowledge and skills reach the high standards of other high school graduates.

    Who can take the GED?
    In Texas you’re required to be a resident. You can prove your residency at the testing center with a valid driver’s license or other proof of residency, such as a bill with a Texas address. If you have more questions, please contact your local testing center to learn more.

    What is the cost?
    The cost of each of the four GED exams is $36.25.  This fee will be paid when registering for the exam at www.GED.com. 

    I’m underage. What do I need to do to take the test?

    These are the requirements in Texas, you can take the GED® test

    • If you are 16 and;
      • have a government (national or foreign) issued photo ID
      • are a resident of the state
      • in the care of a state agency or under a court order or in a Job Corps training program
      • are not enrolled in school
      • are not a high school graduate
        (See Texas Education Code)  
    • If you are 17 and;
      • have a government (national or foreign) issued photo ID;
      • are a resident of Texas (See below for Residency Requirements);
      • are not enrolled in school (you are excepted if you are enrolled in an approved in-school GED preparation program);
      • are not a high school graduate; and
      • must have parental/guardian permission.
      • (See Texas Education Code)

    What kind of test is it?
    The test covers four areas of knowledge: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematical Reasoning. The test questions are all multiple choice, with the exception of one part of the Reasoning Through Language Arts test which requires the writing of an essay. All sections of the test have time limits in which to complete them. Once you begin a section of the test, you must complete that section before you leave.

    How do I prepare for the test?
    The first step for preparation is www.GED.com.  This site will provide information about the test, preparation and scheduling the exam.

    Also, check your local library for GED classes. They are usually offered free of charge.
    Students who are 17 years old are required to submit proof of withdrawal from last school attended prior to attending class.

    Rockwall County Library offers preparation classes on Monday and Wednesday during the day and Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Pre-registration is required and there is a small fee for materials. For more information contact, Rockwall County Library at 972-204-7705.

    Rockwall ISD is a Pearson-Vue Testing Center only. Currently, we do not offer preparations classes.

    How is it scored?
    Each Exam subject is scheduled and scored independently.  You must achieve a standard score of 145 on each exam to pass.

    145 GED® Passing Score - The GED® test has a passing score of 145 for each test subject. To earn your high school equivalency, you’ll need to score 145 or higher on all four subjects.

    165 – 174 GED® College Ready - Scoring above 165 (on any test subject) means you have demonstrated you are ready to take college level courses and you may qualify for waivers from placement testing or developmental education requirements if you enroll in college.

    175 – 200 GED® College Ready + Credit - Scoring above 175 (on any test subject) means you have demonstrated skills that could qualify for up to 10 college credit hours.

    May I retake the test?
    In Texas, there is no waiting period for your first two retakes. After taking a test subject 3 times, you'll have to wait 60 days before retesting. There's no limit to how many times you can test in a year.

    You will receive two discounted retakes for every GED® test subject you purchase but don’t pass. You have 365 days after your full price test to use these retakes. After receiving two retakes at the reduced price, the price of the test subject returns to the regular price. If you do not pass that subject again, you will receive two more retakes at the reduced rate. GED Testing Service waives its $20 testing fee, however additional testing fees may still apply in your state. 

    In Texas, there is a $16.25 test center fee for test retakes.