GED Information

Included on this page:  What is the GED test?  ·  Scoring information  ·  Testing Centers  ·  Lost GED Certificates  ·  GED Class ·  Frequently asked questions about GED/ABE

What is the GED test?

The GED test is a national examination made by the GED Testing Service (includes information about GED test) of the American Council of Education. People who pass the test get a certificate. With this certificate, they can get a job in most places that require a high school diploma. They can also enroll in ACC and many other colleges.

The GED test has five parts:

Subject	Length	General areas covered
Language Arts-Reading	1 hour, 5 minutes	75% Literary; 25% Nonfiction. At least one compare/contrast question
Language Arts-Writing	2 hours	2 parts: Grammar section and written essay
Science	1 hour, 20 minutes	Life, physical, chemistry, and physics
Social Studies	1 hour, 10 minutes	History, government, geography, economics. Test includes one practical document (i.e., voter's guide) and one historically significant document (i.e., The Constitution)
Mathematics	1 hour, 30 minutes	Basic math through Geometry. Half of the test you may use calculators (provided by the testing center).

More information on the tests:

• Texas Education Agency's site on the GED
• University of Texas 's web site on “Tips for Essay Writers” (They actually score the essay)
• Also visit testing centers' sites- see below.

Scoring Information

To pass the test in Texas, you need to score a minimum of 410 points on each part and an average of 450 (or 2250 total) on all five parts. We recommend that students take one part at a time. 

Testing Centers

• The Austin Community College Business Assessment Center is at the Highland Business Center . You can call (512) 223-7714 for more information or to schedule an appointment to test.
• University of Texas GED Testing Center: Call (512) 471-2911 for more information or to schedule a test.
• List of Testing Centers throughout Texas

What if I have already received my GED but I lost my GED certificate?

You can receive a duplicate GED certificate, if originally issued in the state of Texas , through the Texas Education Agency. You may call (512) 463-9292 for more information.

What are GED classes like? 

You will be placed in a class that fits your level (you will be tested in orientation).  Once you are in a class, you and your instructor will determine your individual learning plan.  Typically, you will work on math, reading, writing, social studies, and science at your own pace, but you may also work in groups or as a class.  For more information on class schedules and locations, click here.  

Click here for more online resources for students including reading, math, and writing skills practice, career information, college information, and more!

Contact us at (512) 223-5123 or adulted@austincc.edu 
Recorded information line:  (512) 223-5300