GED

What is the GED?

The General Educational Development (GED) Diploma is a high school equivalency certificate awarded upon successful completion of a test.  The GED measures academic skills in five areas: writing, social studies, science, interpreting literature and the arts, and mathematics.

About 95 percent of American colleges, universities and employers consider a GED diploma equivalent to a high school diploma.  The average age of GED test takers is just over 24.

There are GED testing centers around the world.  You can find a test center in the US by browsing the regional site, or call the 24-hour toll-free GED hotline at (800) 626-9433. The GED is available in Spanish and French.  Accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities.

GED Facts:

• Since 1949 an estimated 15.4 million adults worldwide have taken and passed the GED Tests and earned their credentials.
• Worldwide, more than 860,000 adults take the GED Tests every year.
• Those who obtain scores high enough to earn a GED certificate outperform 40% of today's graduating high school seniors.
• The General Educational Development Testing Service develops and distributes the GED Tests.
• GED Graduates include: Delaware's Governor Ruth Ann Minner, Colorado's Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, comedian Bill Cosby, actor Christian Slater, and Wendy' founder Dave Thomas.
• More than 95 percent of U.S. employers consider GED graduates the same as traditional high school graduates with regard to hiring, salary, and opportunities for advancement.