What Does GED Stand For? Everything you Need to Know

August 20, 2019

The GED was originally an acronym for the Tests of General Educational Development, but since 2011 we just use the term GED. The GED test is a series of four subject tests a person can take to demonstrate their high school academic knowledge. Earning a GED diploma from your state is the equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma, so some students choose to take this certification exam if they were not able to complete a traditional high school program.

Benefits of the GED Program

The GED program is an excellent alternative to a traditional high school diploma. Nearly all colleges in the U.S., and many universities outside of the U.S., accept applicants who have earned a GED diploma. The GED diploma is also widely accepted by employers as an alternative to a high school diploma. 

The GED program provides a pathway to more employment opportunities and higher pay, compared to those who do not have a GED or a high school diploma.

What is the GED Test?

The GED test is comprised of four subjects: math, science, social studies, and language arts. Each exam tests a student’s knowledge of topics covered in a typical high school classroom, from history and government to life science and algebra. Exams are taken on a computer in a GED test center. The exams have a variety of answer formats, such as multiple choice, short answer, and fill-in-the-blank. Read more about what the GED is.

Start Working Toward Your GED Diploma Today

If you’re ready to start working toward your GED diploma, GED.com can help. Our preparation courses and practice tests will give you all the tools you need to succeed on exam day. We love seeing students succeed and continue their path to achieving their career and education goals.

15 Comments

  1. Hi.
    I would like to ask you about a new students. She is 17 years old. With a tourist visa, but she expects to return to her country, can this person access the exams to be certified with your GED.

    1. Hi Luis! Please call us at 1-877-EXAM-GED (877-392-6433) or email help@ged.com for more information on how your student may get started on their GED!

  2. My cousin has been thinking about getting better scores for her math test. She would really like to get some equivalency testing so that she can do better on it. I’ll be sure to tell her about how she can get a better GED programs and can be the equivalent to a high school diploma.

  3. Hi, I’m 17 years old and I’m considering getting my GED. What can I do to prepare for the test?

    1. Hi Trinity! You can get started by creating a free account at GED.com. From there you will find all of the information you will need to start studying!

  5. Hi
    My name is Ahmed I am living in UAE and I plan to move Canada but for PR they need high school and I don’t have high school certificate kindly advise me if I clear GED exams and get my ged certificate. Is Canada embassy accept this as a high school certificate?

    1. Hi Jawad! Yes Canada accepts the GED as proof you passed high school, however you should contact local representatives to learn more.

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    1. Hi Katherine! On average it takes our students about 3 months to complete all 4 tests. However, it can take quicker or longer depending on how much time you have to study and test!

  8. I’m a US citizen but I’ve never attended school in the US, how can I get a GED for proof of High School on line?

  9. Hello, I’m wondering if you need to take all four tests at one time or you can do a study course and test for one or two subject area at a time?

    1. Hi Rachel, you can test as few or as many subjects at a time. You can just start with one test if you want.

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