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5 GED Test Myths and Misconceptions

There are a lot of misconceptions about the GED. This is unfortunate because it makes people wary of pursuing what may be a life-changing score. Below is information on a few GED test myths that will help you separate the fact from fiction.

  1. The GED isn't widely accepted: False.
    A whopping 98% of colleges accept a passing GED score, and 96% of employers that require a high school diploma will also accept a GED.
  2. You can be too old to get a GED: False.
    People of all ages can get a GED. To be eligible, you must be 16 or older and not currently enrolled in high school. There isn't a maximum age.
  3. The GED is a "minimum competency" test: False.
    The GED test covers all the major areas of high school curriculum. You will be tested very rigorously. In fact, the test is calibrated so only 70% of American high school graduates could pass it. With that being said, it is important to study and be prepared for the exam by taking GED preparation classes or enrolling in GED online schools and taking GED courses online.
  4. The GED exam is the same each year: False.
    In 2014, the GED exam was updated to make it broader and more difficult. While this means you must study harder for a strong score, it means that passing comes with more prestige.
  5. People with a GED earn about the same as people who dropped out of high school: Disputed.
    Some research indicates that people with a GED earn as much as those who have simply quit high school. Other studies have shown that GED holders have more job satisfaction, skills, savings, and benefits several years after passing the test. The impact of a strong score may not be immediate, but it truly is positive for many people.
Last Updated: April 22, 2015