Yes, you can take the official GED test at home in many states. You test on your own computer while a live online proctor watches. It is the same GED, with the same passing score of 145 per subject, but you must qualify first and your room and computer have to meet the rules.
This guide explains the requirements, the costs and the problems that catch people out. Check your state's page on GED.com too, because availability and prices change.
Who Can Take the GED at Home?
According to GED Testing Service, you need to meet these requirements:
- Your state allows it. Not every state offers online testing, so check your state's policy page on GED.com.
- You have a Green score. You need a Green score on GED Ready within the last 60 days for each subject you plan to take online.
- You have a valid ID. You show a government-issued ID at check-in.
- You meet your state's rules. Your state may also have age or residency requirements.
Younger test takers may need extra steps. In Texas, for example, a parent or guardian of an underage test taker must be present at the online check-in.
Your Computer and Room
- A computer: You need a computer with a webcam. You cannot test on a phone.
- Reliable internet: Run the official system test ahead of time. GED warns that if your equipment fails the check on test day, you may not be able to test and may lose your payment.
- A private room: The room should have four walls and a closed door, with no distractions.
You cannot use a physical calculator. The test gives you an on-screen calculator, as well as a digital whiteboard for your notes and math work.
If your home is noisy or your internet is unreliable, you can take the test at an official center, where the equipment is handled for you.
How to Qualify and Book, Step by Step
- Step 1: Create an account on GED.com and confirm your state's rules.
- Step 2: Study the first subject. The one you feel closest to passing is often a good choice.
- Step 3: Take the GED Ready test for that subject and aim for Green.
- Step 4: Run the system test on the computer you will use.
- Step 5: Schedule the online test within 60 days of your Green score.
- Step 6: On test day, clear your room, have your ID ready and begin check-in early.
You can take the four subjects one at a time. They are Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. Each one needs its own Green score to test online.
How Much Does the GED at Home Cost?
Prices depend on your state. In Texas, GED.com lists $42.25 per subject online and $36.25 per subject at a test center. Some states cost less or more, and a few cover testing fees for eligible people. New York, for example, does not charge for GED subtests.
GED Ready is a separate cost. Check the current price on GED.com. It can be money well spent, because it tells you whether you are ready before you pay for the real test.
What About Retakes?
Retake rules vary too. In Texas, online test takers can take one retake before a 60-day wait, and discounted retakes are not offered for the online exam. Test center retakes have different rules. Your state's page on GED.com will have the rules for you.
How to Avoid a Fake Online GED
Scam sites often target people searching for an online GED. Be careful with any site that:
- Offers you a diploma with no proctored test
- Lets you pay a flat fee and test in a few hours with no ID check
- Promises a diploma based on your life experience
Register through GED.com or your state's adult education office. If you are unsure about a program, call that office and ask. Employers and colleges may reject a diploma from a program like this.
At Home or at a Test Center?
Testing at home saves travel time and can make it easier to fit the test around work. It also needs a private room and solid internet, and it requires the Green score. A test center supplies the equipment and removes the risk of technical problems at home. If you have the choice, think about where you will feel calm and focused.
Prepare for the Online Format
Practice on a computer, since that is how you will test. Learn the on-screen calculator, practice typing your RLA essay and use the digital whiteboard to work through math problems. Use timed practice as well, because Science is 90 minutes and Social Studies is 70.
Start with our GED science practice questions or the free GED math study guide. Our GED prep works on one subject at a time and shows you how the online test works, and a private GED tutor can explain every answer you miss. You can see options on the pricing page.
You take the real test yourself, under GED Testing Service rules. To start, order GED prep online or call or WhatsApp +1 (217) 426-5403.