GED TEST - South Dakota High School Equivalency Diploma

What is the Format?

  • The GED is broken down into five separate sections: Language Arts, Writing; Social Studies; Science; Language Arts, Reading; and Mathematics. Two of the exam sections have two parts-the Language Arts, Writing section and the Mathematics section. While the majority of the test is multiple choice questions, the Language Arts, Writing section requires that you write an essay in 45 minutes. The Mathematics section of the GED allows you to use a calculator (provided) in Part I, but you won't be allowed to use the calculator in Part II.

How is the Exam Scored and What if I Don't Pass?

  • According to the South Dakota Adult Education and Literacy GED programs, www.state.sd.us/dol/abe/, the total cumulative standard scores for all tests must total 2250 and no standard test score can be below 410. This is on a scoring range of 200 (lowest) to 800 (highest.)
  • If you fail the exam, you may retest two more times in that same year for a total of three tests per calendar year (January 1 - December 31.) Your first time retesting can be 30 days after the first test if you have documented proof of preparation. Your second time retesting you have to wait 45 days to retake the exam if you show proof of preparation. Otherwise, you must wait a total of 90 days before retaking the exam.

Who is Eligible?

  • The South Dakota Adult Education and Literacy GED programs, www.state.sd.us/dol/abe/, states that you must meet these requirements to be eligible to take the GED:
    • If you are under 19 years, you must not have been enrolled in high school for 90 days prior to registration.
    • You don't have to be a resident of South Dakota to take the GED.
    • You must not have graduated from an accredited high school or already received the GED.
    • For additional requirements concerning individuals under the age of 19, visit the South Dakota Adult Education and Literacy GED programs Web site at www.state.sd.us/dol/abe/.

How do I Register for the GED and What Will it Cost?

  • You need to register for the GED at your local testing center. Visit the South Dakota Adult Education and Literacy Web site at www.state.sd.us/dol/abe/ to get a listing of testing centers in your area. Be aware that when you register, you will need to do three things: fill out the application, pay the testing center fee and present positive picture ID and proof of age.
  • The cost for taking the GED varies from testing center to testing center, but the cost cannot exceed $60.00 for the entire exam.

How do I Prepare?

  • You can prepare for the GED in two main ways: by taking a preparation class (recommended) and by studying independently. When you take a preparation class either through your local testing center, community college or adult learning center, you have someone there to guide your studies. You can get instant feedback from your teacher and you can quickly check your homework.
  • Studying independently can be productive too, though. Try visiting your local library and use their study materials, or purchase the study materials off the Internet or at your local bookstore. Otherwise, you can browse the Internet for sites that offer free GED lessons and practice exams.