GED® Q & A

GED Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does it cost?

A: After you pay the enrollment fee, everything - tutoring, online Essential Education virtual tutor access, practice tests and the actual GED subject tests - is 100% FREE!

Q: How long will it take to earn my GED?

A: That depends on YOU! Students who attend tutoring regularly and study the materials on their own time move through the program more quickly than those who don't. There's no magic number, but six months is a reasonable estimate. So, set aside the time and make the commitment to yourself. You can do it!

Q: How long is the test?

A: The GED "test" isn't one test, it's actually four different subject tests - Reading and Language Arts with written response (150 mins.), Math (115 mins.), Social Studies (70 min.), and Science (90 mins). You'll need to earn a passing score on each test to be awarded your GED credential. But, you don't have to schedule the tests all at once and can take your time focusing on one subject at a time.

Q:What is the process to earn my GED?

A: 1. Enroll with us. 2. Take a TABE pre-test at an Assessment Hub so your instructor knows what you already understand and where you'll need help. 3. Earn 12 hours of attendance - in class or working in Essential Education online, or a combination of both. 4. Start taking GED Ready Official Practice tests, one subject at a time, for FREE. 5. After you earn a passing score on the GED Ready Official Practice test, we'll help you schedule an official subject test - for FREE! 6. Pass all four tests and receive your certificate!

Q:Where do I take the tests?

A:The Roanoke Higher Education Center at 108 North Jefferson Street in downtown Roanoke is the only official testing center in our region. Virtual testing options through the GED Testing Service are available to students with the correct equipment. We'll help you choose your best option when the time comes.

Q:What if I fail a test?

A: No big deal! If you fail one of your tests, your instructor can help you go back over the material that you missed. Then, when you're ready, we'll help you schedule a retake test for - you guessed it - FREE!

Q:How do I get my diploma?

A: After you complete your final test, you will get an email from the GED Testing Service with directions on how to order one FREE copy of your diploma.

Career pathways for adult education

GED® and GED Testing Service ® are registered trademarks of the American Council on Education (ACE). They may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of ACE or GED Testing Service ®. The GED® and GED Testing Service ® brands are administered by GED Testing Service ®, LLC under license from the American Council on Education.

Roanoke Valley - Region 5 Adult Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities.