What are the GED Tests

The GED Tests are the five (5) tests of General Educational Development. The GED Testing Service of the American Council on Education makes them available to adults who did not graduate from high school. Tests cover the same subjects that people study in high school. The five subjects include: Language Arts Writing and Reading, Social Studies, Science and Mathematics. Candidates are not required to know all of the information that is usually taught in high school, however, across the five tests, candidates are tested on their ability to read and process information, solve problems, and communicate effectively.

When you pass the GED Tests, you receive a certificate or diploma that is regarded as equivalent to a high school diploma. Employers in private industry and government, as well as admissions offices in colleges and universities accept the GED certificate as they would a high school diploma.

Eligibility Requirements for GED Testing in New York State

The GED tests can be administered to any person who:
A. Has lived in New York State for at least one (1) month prior to the test date and
1. is 19 years of age or over on the day of testing; and
2. has not graduated from an accredited high school; or
3. has not received a high school equivalency certificate or diploma; or
4. is not currently enrolled in a regular high school; or
5. has not previously earned scores on the GED tests sufficient to qualify for a high school equivalency certificate or diploma.

Criteria 2 through 5 in Section A above apply to ALL testers regardless of age.

The GED tests may also be administered to any person who:
B. Has lived in New York State for at least one (1) month prior to the test date and
1. is 17 or 18 years old on the day of testing; and
2. one year has passed since he or she legally reached maximum compulsory school attendance age* and last enrolled in a regular full-time high school program of instruction; or
3. was a member of a high school class that has already graduated; or
4. is enrolled in an approved Alternative High School Equivalency Preparation Program or
5. has applied to the U.S. Armed Forces, college, university or an accredited postsecondary institution or
6. is a participant in a Job Corps program;

*Students have reached maximum compulsory school attendance age when the school year in which they turned 16 has ended
(June 30).