GED Score Calculator
Enter your scaled scores for each subject below to calculate your total GED score and see if you've passed!
The General Educational Development (GED) test is a high school equivalency examination that allows individuals to earn a credential recognized by employers and colleges as equivalent to a high school diploma. Understanding how your GED score is calculated and what it means is crucial for planning your next steps, whether that's pursuing higher education or advancing your career.
What is the GED Test?
The GED test is a four-subject exam that measures skills and knowledge typically acquired during four years of high school. The four subjects are:
- Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA): Assesses reading, writing, and language conventions.
- Mathematical Reasoning: Covers quantitative problem-solving, including algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Social Studies: Focuses on U.S. history, civics and government, economics, and geography.
- Science: Explores life science, physical science, and earth and space science.
Each subject is scored individually, and you must pass all four to earn your GED credential.
How GED Scores Are Calculated
After you complete each section of the GED test, your raw score (the number of questions you answered correctly) is converted into a scaled score. This scaled score ranges from 100 to 200 for each subject. The scaling process ensures that scores are consistent across different test forms and administrations.
Understanding the Score Ranges:
- Below Passing (100-144): If your score falls within this range for any subject, you have not yet passed that section. You will need to retake it.
- GED® Passing Score (145-164): This is the minimum score required to pass a single subject and contribute towards earning your GED credential. You must score at least 145 on all four subjects to pass the overall GED test.
- GED® College Ready (165-174): Achieving a score in this range on a subject indicates that you have demonstrated skills and knowledge typically required for college-level courses. Many colleges may accept these scores in lieu of placement tests.
- GED® College Ready + Credit (175-200): This highest score range suggests a strong aptitude for college-level work and may even qualify you for up to 10 college credit hours, depending on the college's policies.
Using the GED Score Calculator
Our interactive calculator above helps you quickly determine your total GED score and assess your standing. Simply input your scaled score for each of the four subjects, and the calculator will:
- Sum your total score.
- Indicate if you've passed each individual subject.
- Notify you if you've achieved "College Ready" or "College Ready + Credit" status for any subject.
- Provide an overall pass/fail status for the entire GED exam.
This tool is perfect for tracking your progress as you take different sections of the test or for quickly understanding your final results.
What If You Don't Pass a Subject?
It's common for individuals to need multiple attempts on one or more sections of the GED test. If you don't pass a subject, don't be discouraged! The GED Testing Service offers:
- Retake Opportunities: You typically get two free retakes per subject, often at a reduced rate or even free, depending on your state's policies, after your initial attempt.
- Study Resources: Focus on the areas where you scored lowest. Utilize study guides, online courses, and practice tests to improve your understanding.
The key is to review your score report carefully, identify your weak areas, and dedicate time to improving those specific skills before your next attempt.
Why Your GED Score Matters
Earning your GED credential opens up a world of opportunities:
- Higher Education: It's a prerequisite for most college and university admissions.
- Career Advancement: Many employers require a high school diploma or its equivalent for entry-level positions and promotions.
- Increased Earning Potential: Studies consistently show that individuals with a high school equivalency earn significantly more over their lifetime than those without.
- Personal Accomplishment: It represents a significant personal achievement and builds confidence.
Conclusion
Understanding how to calculate and interpret your GED scores is an essential step on your educational journey. Whether you're aiming for the basic passing score or striving for College Ready status, each point brings you closer to your goals. Use the provided calculator to track your progress, celebrate your successes, and identify areas for improvement. Your GED credential is more than just a piece of paper; it's a gateway to a brighter future.