If you want to do something great for yourself, then you should consider earning your Ohio GED (General Educational Development) diploma. It is a proven fact that people who have at least a high school diploma or equivalent make more money and have more opportunities in life than those who don’t. Although passing the Ohio GED exam can be a challenge, it is well worth the effort. Here is information about how to earn your GED in Ohio.
Ohio GED Test Format
Except for one essay on the writing test, the entire Ohio GED exam consists of multiple-choice questions about five main topics:
- Language Arts: Reading (40 questions)
- Language Arts: Writing (50 questions, essay question)
- Mathematics (50 questions)
- Science (50 questions)
- Social Studies (50 questions)
There are a total of 240 questions and you will have about 7.5 hours to complete the exam. However, the exam can be taken over multiple days.
The exam is available in other languages (French, Spanish) and other formats (large print, Braille, audio). If you have a disability that needs to be accommodated, notify the testing center where you will be taking the exam.
How is the Ohio GED Exam Scored?
Scoring for the Ohio GED is pretty straightforward. The minimum passing score is 2250, although the highest score you can get is 4000. All tests must score above 410 or they will be given a failing grade. Any test you fail can be retaken, but you must wait until you receive your score report before you can retake all or part of the GED exam. In Ohio, you are allowed to take the test up to three times in one year. The highest score on all the subtests will be used to calculate your cumulative score.
Ohio GED Eligibility Requirements
All candidates must be at least 19 years old to take the exam without any restrictions. Eighteen year olds can take the test if they have a GED Age Waiver Form signed by the superintendent or school principle. If your class has already graduated, you will need to present a transcript from the school confirming that fact. If you are below 18 but at least 16, you must submit an age waiver and a parental (or guardian) consent form before you can take the Ohio GED exam.
At this time, there are no residency requirements. Eligibility requirements can change at any time, though, and it is best to contact an official testing center or visit the Ohio Department of Education website (www.ode.state.oh.us)for the most current information.
Registration Information for the Ohio GED Exam
Registration is required to take the GED exam in Ohio. As of January 1, 2012, you must register for the exam online at the Ohio Department of Education website. In addition to all relevant paperwork, you will need to supply a valid driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID verifying your identity. You can pay for the testing fees online using a credit card or mail a business check or money order along with your confirmation page to the Ohio Testing Services.
The testing fee is $40 for first-time takers and $10 per test for retakes. All fees are non-refundable.
Preparing for the Test
There are a number of ways you can prepare for the Ohio GED exam. One common way is to take a GED prep course which is typically available at a community college or adult education facility. If your schedule doesn’t allow for the structure of a classroom, you can also take the course online or through distance education.
Many people also opt to purchase GED study guides and review the material independently. Though this is a great choice for people with busy schedules, you must be disciplined and self-motivated to be successful with this option. GED study help can be obtained online at any number of websites and community forums on the Internet.