Taking the GED Test

The computerized GED test began in January 2014. There are four tests that reflect national Common Core State Standards.

Who can take the GED?

The eligibility requirements for GED testing include:

  • Not graduated from an accredited high school or received a high-school equivalency certificate or diploma.
  • Not enrolled in a regular high school.
  • At least 16 years of age.
  • If you are under 19, you must obtain an Approval to Test form from the high school or school district in which you currently live (or a notarized form if you have been home-schooled). Submit the original form to the Shoreline Testing Center prior to testing.
  • Be a Washington resident or have a Washington mailing address.

GED Testing Options

The GED test can be taken on-campus at the Testing Center located in FOSS (5000 Building), Room 5100.

On-campus tests are usually provided Monday-Thursday, except for holidays or other times when the college needs to reserve the testing center.

It is unlikely that a person can take all tests in one day so plan to take the tests over the course of several days. Please be aware that you can schedule more than one test on any testing day, but it is not recommended taking all four GED tests in one day.

To see testing availability, check the test schedule.

Registration

Advance registration, payment and scheduling is required. If you miss your appointment, the required advance-registration fee is not refundable.

Test Materials

All materials for on-campus GED tests are provided by the Testing Center. You may not use your own.

Personal items need to be left at home or placed in our small storage lockers before testing. Personal items include backpacks, hats, coats, jackets, sweaters, electronics (including cell phones, iPods, cameras), watches, and jewelry.

Take your GED test from the comfort of your home, while securely monitored by an online proctor.

Learn about testing requirements and schedule your test online at ged.com.

Preparation

You can find preparatory materials online at ged.com or consider taking courses through Shoreline's preparatory GED classes.

Cost

  • In-person testing in the Testing Center: each portion of the four-part test costs $30 for a total of $120
  • Online testing: each portion of the four-part test costs $36 for a total of $144

Length of Tests

Reasoning
2 hrs 30 min
Math
1 hr 55 min (TI-30 XS calculator is allowed)
Science
1 hr 30 min
Social Studies
1 hr 30 min

Identification

For both the on-campus test and the online proctored exam, you must present an official, current, government-issued photo ID that verifies name, signature, birth date, and Washington state residency. 

Test Scores

Testing Center staff do not provide scores. Scores can be obtained through ged.com.

Special Accommodations

Those requiring special accommodations due to disabilities or other factors can call (425) 610-6232 for more information or send an e-mail to testcenter@shoreline.edu.

Assistance may also be available through Student Support Programs. Call (206) 546-4545 or (206) 546-4520 (TTY), or email sas@shoreline.edu.