General Education Diploma (GED) Information

What is GED?

The General Educational Development (GED) Test is designed to enable adults who have not graduated from high school to demonstrate proficiency in the skills and concepts usually learned during four years of regular high school. The test is available in English, Spanish, and French. Special tests are available for the visually impaired. It is composed of five (5) subject area tests:

  • Mathematics - The examinee must solve problems in the areas of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry as well as apply mathematical processes to realistic problems
  • Language Arts & Writing - The Language Arts exam is composed of multiple-choice questions to measure a person’s ability to use standard written English clearly and effectively. In addition, examinees author an essay on a topic about which they are expected to have general knowledge.
  • Language Arts – Reading the GED Language Arts Reading Test will test how well you understand selections from several types of literature — such as fiction, poetry, and drama — and from nonfiction — such as nonfiction prose and documents commonly found in the workplace or community.
  • Science - Biology, earth science, physics and chemistry are the areas included in this test.
  • Social Studies - This test contains items drawn from history, economics, political science, geography, and the behavioral sciences.

GED Test Information

For information on the Official GED test in Hillsborough County, please see the Hillsborough County Public School website or call 813-231-1853.

Students who are 18 years of age or older can take the GED at any time. However, it is recommended that before taking the test, the student take Official GED Practice Tests. Students who are 16 or 17 years of age have certain requirements that must be met before being referred for the Official GED test.

It is recommended that students score at least 10.0 or higher on the TABE in reading, language, and mathematics before taking the actual GED. Students may also want to brush up on essay writing. Once a student takes the TABE, a staff member where they take the TABE will go over the results and recommend what classes are needed or if the student is ready to take Official GED Practice Tests.

Need Financial Assistance for the GED?

Hillsborough County offers financial education assistance for GED preparation, GED testing, and Adult Continued Education to qualified residents, which includes tuition, books, and other fees.

Adult Continued Education

  • Do you need tuition assistance for post-secondary or technical training programs? Assistance for tuition, books and other program fees is available.
  • Programs are available at Hillsborough County Technical schools.

GED and GED prep assistance

  • Do you need help preparing for the test? Assistance for Adult Basic Education and GED classes is available.
  • Are you ready to take the test? Proof of a passing score on the Official Practice Test is required.

Qualification

Download the Education Application Requirements for a complete checklist.

Get started

  • (813) 231-1639