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Exam Information
Official specifications published by Academic Testing
Exam Format
70 min
35
145
High School Equivalency
Registration
$30 USD
Pearson VUE or online proctoring
English, Spanish (select states)
Validity
permanent
GED-SS Exam Topics and Domains
GED-SS is organized into 4 weighted domains.
1
Civics and Government
50%
Types of Modern and Historical Governments
Different Forms of GovernmentHistorical Government Structures
- Identify and describe different types of governments
- Analyze historical government structures and their influence on modern systems
- Compare and contrast various governmental systems
Constitutional Government and Principles
U.S. ConstitutionFoundational Documents
- Explain the principles underlying constitutional government
- Analyze how the Constitution structures government
- Evaluate the role of foundational documents in American governance
Levels and Branches of U.S. Government
Federal Government - Three BranchesState and Local Government
- Describe the structure and function of each branch of government
- Explain the system of checks and balances
- Analyze the relationship between federal, state, and local governments
Electoral System and Political Processes
Elections and VotingPolitical Participation and Campaigns
- Explain how the U.S. electoral system functions
- Analyze the evolution of voting rights
- Evaluate different forms of political participation
Role of the Citizen
Civic Rights and ResponsibilitiesCitizen Participation in Democracy
- Identify individual rights and civic responsibilities
- Explain how citizens participate in democratic governance
- Analyze the importance of civic engagement
2
U.S. History
20%
Colonialism and Revolution
Colonial PeriodAmerican Revolution
- Explain the causes and consequences of the American Revolution
- Analyze colonial society and its development
- Evaluate the significance of revolutionary principles
Early Republic and Westward Expansion
Formation of the United StatesManifest Destiny and Expansion
- Analyze the concept of Manifest Destiny and its consequences
- Explain westward expansion and territorial growth
- Evaluate the impact of expansion on different populations
Civil War and Reconstruction
Causes and Course of Civil WarReconstruction Era
- Analyze the causes and consequences of the Civil War
- Explain the goals and outcomes of Reconstruction
- Evaluate the lasting impact of the Civil War era on American society
Industrialization and Immigration
Industrial Revolution in AmericaImmigration and Urban Growth
- Explain the causes and effects of industrialization
- Analyze immigration patterns and their impact
- Evaluate social and economic changes during this period
World Wars and Cold War
World War I and World War IICold War Era
- Analyze U.S. involvement in major 20th century conflicts
- Explain the Cold War and its global impact
- Evaluate how wars shaped American foreign and domestic policy
Civil Rights and Social Movements
Civil Rights MovementOther Social Movements
- Explain the goals and methods of civil rights movements
- Analyze the impact of social movements on American society
- Evaluate progress and continuing challenges in achieving equality
3
Economics
15%
Basic Economic Concepts and Systems
Fundamental Economic PrinciplesEconomic Systems
- Explain fundamental economic concepts
- Compare and contrast different economic systems
- Apply economic reasoning to real-world scenarios
Government and the Economy
Government Economic PolicyGovernment Regulation and Intervention
- Explain how government influences the economy
- Analyze the effects of fiscal and monetary policy
- Evaluate the role of government regulation
Labor and Consumer Economics
Labor Markets and EmploymentConsumer Economics and Personal FinanceInternational Trade
- Explain how labor markets determine wages and employment
- Apply economic principles to personal financial decisions
- Analyze the effects of international trade
4
Geography and the World
15%
Major Stages in World History
Ancient CivilizationsMedieval and Renaissance PeriodsModern World History
- Identify major periods and developments in world history
- Analyze the global impact of historical events
- Understand connections between historical and contemporary issues
Physical Geography and Environment
Geographic Features and ConceptsEnvironmental Issues
- Explain key geographic concepts and features
- Analyze environmental challenges and solutions
- Interpret geographic data and maps
Relationship Among Resources, Environment, and Societies
Resource Distribution and UseHuman-Environment InteractionGlobal Interdependence
- Analyze the relationship between resources and societies
- Explain how humans interact with their environment
- Evaluate global interdependence and its implications
How do I earn this certification?
Passing GED-SS earns the GED High School Equivalency Credential certification. It sits in the General Educational Development (High School Equivalency) track.
Current Level Exams
- GED-RLA - Reasoning Through Language Arts
- GED-MATH - Mathematical Reasoning
- GED-SCI - Science
Next Level Options
- Associate's Degree GED credential qualifies for admission to community colleges and many universities
- Bachelor's Degree GED credential accepted by most 4-year colleges and universities
- Trade/Vocational Certifications GED qualifies for enrollment in trade schools and vocational programs
- Military Service GED credential meets educational requirements for military enlistment
- Career Advancement Many employers accept GED as equivalent to high school diploma
Alternative Paths
- HiSET - High School Equivalency Test Another high school equivalency option accepted in some states
- TASC - Test Assessing Secondary Completion Alternative high school equivalency test available in select states
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for GED-SS is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
Current Status
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2024-06-30
- Announcement date: 2014-01-02
Updates
- Online Proctoring Current Test-takers can now take GED tests at home with online proctoring • Release date: 2020
- Computer-Based Testing 2014 Series All GED tests moved to computer-based format; paper-based testing eliminated • Release date: 2014-01-02
Who should take this exam?
- Basic reading comprehension skills
- Familiarity with U.S. history and government
- Understanding of basic economic concepts
- Ability to read maps and charts