How to Earn an Indiana GED

What Are the GED Tests?

The GED (General Educational Development) tests are available to adults who have not received a high school diploma. Passing the tests demonstrates that you have attained a level of knowledge equal to what you would have gained by taking a full high school curriculum. The GED certificate is accepted by most employers and colleges that require a high school diploma.

The subject areas covered include reading, writing, social studies, science and mathematics. Each test has a time limit and the entire exam takes 7.5 hours to complete. It's spread out over 1-3 days.

Who Is Eligible to Take the Exam?

You're eligible to take the GED if you're a resident of Indiana, at least 18 years old and have not earned a high school diploma from an accredited high school. If you're 16 or 17, you can still take the test if you meet the additional requirements established by Indiana's adult education office.

How Do I Prepare?

Free classes are available for Indiana residents through adult education centers located throughout the state. To find a center near you, check with your local GED testing office. You can also prepare using self-study manuals available at bookstores and libraries. Recommendations for additional resources can be found on the GED Testing Services website.

What's a Passing Score?

In order to pass the exam, you must receive a total score of 2,250, with no single score lower than a 410. Any score lower than 410 is not considered passing, regardless of the total score.

Any single test may be retaken two times in a calendar year. You cannot take the test more than three times in a year (including the first time and two retests) because there are only three forms of each test and you have to use a new form every time you take it. Although no wait time or preparation classes are required, it's strongly suggested that you prepare before testing or retesting.

Do I Get a Diploma by Passing the GED?

You do not receive a high school diploma by passing the GED. What you do receive is a GED Certificate of Achievement issued by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD). The certificate indicates that a high school graduate level of knowledge has been attained.