GED TEST - New York High School Equivalency Diploma

The GED Test

• Who is eligible to take the GED Tests in New York State?

Anyone who is a New York State Resident and who is 16 years of age or older (with certain restrictions) on the day of testing may be eligible to take the GED Tests.  For more detailed information on eligibility and the required forms you may need, please refer to the eligibility requirements.

• What can I do to prepare for the GED Tests?

There are many resources available to you, the GED candidate in preparation for the GED Tests.  You can refer to the Literacy Assistance Center* for information on a preparation program near you.  Also, VESID* (Vocational Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities) is a division of the New York State Education Department, where counselors guide individuals with disabilities through service programs they need to reach their employment goals, including but not limited to GED Test preparation. The National Center for Family Literacy* has information on GED preparation programs as well.
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• What do I have to get on a GED sub test in order to pass in New York State?

To earn a New York State High School Equivalency diploma, you must score a minimum of 410 points on each section (or subtest) and a minimum total score of 2250.  The maximum score on each subtest is 800 points, and the maximum total test score is 4000 points.

• What happens if I take all five sub tests and don't earn at least 2,250 total points, or if I don't score at least a 410 on all of the sub tests?

If you do not score enough points to pass the GED Tests, either on a subtest (410) or in total (2250), then you must retake the tests. You are required to retake those specific sub tests on which you did not score at least 410 points.  Only the highest scores achieved from different test sessions will be kept and included in your total score.  Although you do not have to retake the sections on which you scores 410 points or greater, it is recommended that you retake several subtests in order to increase the total score.

• How many times can I take the GED Tests over?

You can "retest" three times in a twelve month period.  The twelve month period begins when you take the GED Tests for the first time.

• What happens if I take a subject test over and score lower?

Only the highest scores achieved from different test sessions will be kept and included in your total score. Although you do not have to retake the sections on which you scores 410 points or greater, it is recommended that you retake several subtests in order to increase the total score.

• Are there testing accommodations for people with special learning, physical or emotional needs to take the GED Tests?

Yes.  In following with the guidelines based on the Americans with Disabilities Act, New York State and the GED Testing Service have procedures in place that will accommodate any individual with special needs when taking the GED Tests.  For more information, please refer to the Testing Accommodations Information Page.

• English is my second language. Do the GED Tests come in other languages?

Yes.  The GED Tests are also available at all testing sites in Spanish and French.  We recommend calling your local test site to ask for specific information.  Please refer to the GED Test Schedule for any contact information. 

• After I take the tests, how long does it take to get the results?

When you have taken the GED test at a testing center within New York State, your answer sheets are sent to the State Education Department in Albany to be scored.  The scoring process can take up to 4-6 weeks during peak periods, although results can be issued in as little as 2-3 weeks, if no issues delay the scoring of your materials (delays could be caused by many things, such as , but not limited to, stray markings on the answer sheets, torn answer sheets, and poorly or misbubbled responses). It is important to keep in mind that the fewer the number of candidate errors on the test forms, the quicker the test results will be mailed out.

Once your answer sheet/s have been successfully scored, one of several possible documents will be mailed to the address you provided on your answer sheet at the time of testing: 1) New York State High School Equivalency Diploma and/or a transcript of passing scores 2) a transcript of your failing scores, or 3) a letter of ineligibility.  You can also verify when your scores have been released by calling the GED Hotline at (518) 474-5906.

• How can I document my academic ability in regards to college admission standards?

Nontraditional candidates have demonstrated academic skills in the core content areas of language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics.  In fact, those who pass the GED Tests have surpassed the performance of at least 40 percent of the nation’s graduating high school seniors.