GED Math Test Prep Guide: Study Tips, Practice Questions, and How to Pass Fast
Nov 03, 2025If you plan to take the GED, you must pass four separate exams, including the math test.
The best way to pass this test and get the score you need to ensure your future is to understand what you will be facing, prepare well, and take plenty of practice tests.
In this article, we will look at the GED Mathematical Reasoning test in particular.
What Is the GED Math Test?
The General Educational Development (GED) assessment is a high school equivalency test that is taken by students who have not achieved a high school diploma.
The GED has been operating for more than 75 years, and over 20 million students have passed, making them eligible for college and future educational opportunities.
In addition, the GED was created as an opportunity for a second chance at demonstrating high-school-level knowledge and ability, which has traditionally been difficult to achieve for marginalized and underserved learners.
The GED is the only high school equivalency test recognized by 97% of colleges and employers, making it a valuable tool for learners who want to access higher education and better employment.
There are four separate exams in the GED. Each one needs to be completed separately (and paid for individually), but you can schedule and take them together, particularly if you are attending a test center.
The tests are below:
- Mathematical Reasoning: This exam lasts 115 minutes and covers basic math, geometry, algebra, graphs and functions.
- Reasoning Through Language Arts: This test is 150 minutes in length and covers reading for meaning, identifying and creating arguments, and grammar and language.
- Social Studies: This is a 70-minute exam and covers reading for meaning in social studies, analyzing historical events and arguments in social studies, and using numbers and graphs in social studies.
- Science: The Science exam lasts for 90 minutes and covers reading for meaning in science, designing and interpreting science experiments, and using numbers and graphics in science.
Mathematical Reasoning
The Mathematical Reasoning test is not the longest assessment in the battery, but it takes nearly two hours to complete.
The 115-minute time limit includes 2 minutes for you to read the instructions and complete a final review, and there is a three-minute break built in between parts one and two.
If you are taking the exam in a test center, this will be when you will need to collect your calculator for the next section. There are 46 questions on the assessment.
You will not be required to memorize complicated math formulas to complete the Math GED; during the test, you will have on-screen access to a formula and calculator reference sheet and an onscreen calculator, too.
The questions on the assessment are a combination of simple multiple-choice and interactive questions. You might need to fill in the blank, drag and drop the right answer, or select an area rather than just choosing the right answer. Each question will tell you how you are required to answer.
There are four sections to the GED Math test. The content that is tested in each section is listed below.
Basic Math
- Operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, using a calculator
- Word problems
- Decimals, fractions, percentages, roots, and exponents
Geometry
- Formulas used with shapes and objects
- How to work out surface area, volume, diameter, and radius of both 2D and 3D shapes
Basic Algebra
- Being able to determine the value of a variable
- Use the details from a word problem to write a formula with a variable
Graphs and Functions
- Use graphs and charts to read and analyze information
- Know how to organize data in tables and graphs
- Use median, mean, mode, and range
- Understand the basics of probability and statistics
When Does a GED Math Test Get Taken?
The GED math test and other tests in the battery are usually taken by high school leavers who have not achieved their high school diploma.
This can include students who were home-schooled, for example or those who were unable to complete traditional schooling for any number of social or economic reasons.
It is also a second chance option used by adults who perhaps did not achieve well at school and could not get their high school diploma.
The GED is often used as an alternative requirement in place of a high school diploma, particularly in entry-level jobs and for college admissions. Test takers want to pass the GED to demonstrate that they have the knowledge and skills expected from a student in the US who has completed high school.
Example Tests on the GED Math Test
Basic Math
A rectangular garden has a length that is 6 feet longer than twice its width. If the perimeter of the garden is 60 feet, what are the dimensions of the garden?
a) Length = 14 feet, Width = 7 feet
b) Length = 22 feet, Width = 8 feet
c) Length = 10 feet, Width = 5 feet
d) Length = 12 feet, Width = 6 feet
The correct answer is: b) Length = 22 feet, Width = 8 feet.
The length (L) is 6 feet longer than twice the width (W), which can be expressed as: L = 2W + 6.
The perimeter of the garden is 60 feet. The perimeter of a rectangle is given by P = 2(L + W), so in this case, P = 60.
Now, you can use these two equations to find the dimensions of the garden:
From equation (1), we have L = 2W + 6.
Substitute this expression for L into equation (2):
2((2W + 6) + W) = 60
Simplify the equation:
2(3W + 6) = 60
Now, distribute the 2 on the left side of the equation:
6W + 12 = 60
Subtract 12 from both sides:
6W = 60 – 12
6W = 48
Now, divide both sides by 6 to find the value of W:
W = 48 / 6
W = 8 feet
Now that we have the value of W, we can find L using equation (1):
L = 2W + 6
L = 2(8) + 6
L = 16 + 6
L = 22 feet
So, the dimensions of the garden are:
Length = 22 feet
Width = 8 feet
Geometry
A rectangular prism has a length of 8 cm, a width of 5 cm, and a height of 3 cm. What is the total surface area of the prism?
a) 134 cm²
b) 164 cm²
c) 158 cm²
d) 192 cm²
The correct answer is: c) 158 cm².
To find the total surface area of a rectangular prism, you need to calculate the areas of all six sides and then sum them up. The formula for the surface area of a rectangular prism is:
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
In this case, you have the following dimensions:
Length (l) = 8 cm
Width (w) = 5 cm
Height (h) = 3 cm
Now, plug these values into the formula:
Surface Area = 2(8 cm)(5 cm) + 2(8 cm)(3 cm) + 2(5 cm)(3 cm)
Calculate each part of the formula:
Surface Area = 2(40 cm²) + 2(24 cm²) + 2(15 cm²)
Now, perform the multiplications:
Surface Area = 80 cm² + 48 cm² + 30 cm²
Add these areas together to find the total surface area:
Surface Area = 80 cm² + 48 cm² + 30 cm² = 158 cm²
So, the total surface area of the rectangular prism is 158 cm².
Basic Algebra
Solve for x:
2x + 5 = 17
a) x = 5
b) x = 7
c) x = 6
d) x = 4
The correct answer is: c) x = 6
Subtract 5 from both sides of the equation to isolate the term with x:
2x + 5 – 5 = 17 – 5
This simplifies to:
2x = 12
Now, to solve for x, divide both sides of the equation by 2:
(2x)/2 = 12/2
This simplifies to:
x = 6
So, the solution to the equation 2x + 5 = 17 is x = 6
Simplify the expression:
3x + 2y – 5x + 4y
a) –2x + 6y
b) 2x – 6y
c) 5x – 4y
d) 15x = 8y
The correct answer is: a) –2x + 6y
To simplify the expression 3x + 2y – 5x + 4y, you can combine like terms. Like terms are those with the same variables raised to the same powers.
In this expression:
You have 3x and –5x, which are like terms because they both have the variable x.
You also have 2y and 4y, which are like terms because they both have the variable y.
Now, combine these like terms:
3x – 5x + 2y + 4y
To combine x terms, subtract 5x from 3x:
(3x – 5x) + 2y + 4y
–2x + 2y + 4y
Now, combine y terms by adding 2y and 4y:
–2x + 2y + 4y = –2x + 6y
So, the simplified expression is –2x + 6y
Graphs and Functions
The scores of five students on a math test are as follows: 75, 82, 90, 88, and 95.
What is the mean (average) score?
a) 84
b) 86
c) 88
d) 90
The correct answer is: b) 86.
To find the mean (average) score of the five students on the math test, you need to sum up all the scores and then divide by the total number of scores (which is 5 in this case).
Add up all the scores:
75 + 82 + 90 + 88 + 95 = 430
Divide the sum by the total number of scores (5):
Mean (average) = 430 / 5 = 86
So, the mean (average) score is 86.
General Conditions of the GED Test
The GED has some basic conditions to meet if you want to take the test. Some of these are national rules, while others depend on the state where you are taking the assessment.
You will not be able to take the GED until you have completed high school or are above the age of completion of high school. This means that you will usually need to be at least 19 to register for the GED.
You will need to register with GED to be able to book your test, whether you are taking It online or at a test center, and that means you will need to have a valid form of ID as your details must match when you create an account.
Test centers are widespread throughout the US, and if you choose to take your test at a center, you can arrange to complete all four tests on the same day.
You will need to schedule online assessments separately, as these need to be proctored remotely for fairness reasons – more on the online testing process later.
If you do not pass the GED Math test or any of the other tests, you can retake the assessments as many times as you want, although there are some waiting periods of 60 days that will apply depending on how many attempts you have made.
You don’t have to retake all four tests. If you missed the mark on one or two tests, then you can retake them individually.
How to Prepare for the GED Test
Start Early
If you know that taking the GED is part of your future plans, the best thing you can do is start preparing and practicing as early as possible.
As a high school equivalency test, the content is based on knowledge that you will have gained through your educational journey.
If it has been a while since you have been in school, or if you have missed out on some lessons, you will want to give yourself the best chance to learn the basics and refine your knowledge of formulas so that you feel confident.
The usual recommendation is at least four months, which gives plenty of time for you to cover the content of all four tests without taking too much time away from your other responsibilities.
Cramming is not recommended if you want to get the best possible score in the GED.
Revise
Using resources like this one will help you revise, as you can see what the content of the GED Math assessment will be so you know the areas you will have to revise beforehand.
Making a revision plan is a good way to ensure that you cover everything that needs to be covered and that you have the time to revise these subjects to a level that will give you the best opportunity for a high score.
Take Online GED Math Practice Test Papers
You can register on the GED website to access practice tests based on the real GED Math assessment. These are a great place to start before you even start revising the subject.
Once you have completed a practice test, you can see whether there are any areas you struggled with because these should be your focus for revision.
Practice tests are also a great way to get used to the structure and layout of the assessment, the way the questions need to be answered, and how the test timings work.
The more GED Math prep practice you have, the more familiar you will be, which should help you feel less anxious on the day.
Seek Past Papers
Past papers are a great way to revise and practice. Seeing what has been included on several papers will give you more of an idea of what to expect on your test, and as these come from the GED test writers themselves, they are likely to be the most relevant for the test that you are taking.
Use them alongside interactive practice tests for the best results.
Check Computer Equipment
Whether you are planning to take the GED online or in a test center, you will need to register and schedule online, so you’ll need to ensure that your equipment is fully operational.
Online assessments require you to have a working webcam and microphone, too, so if you have any concerns about the hardware you have available, you can look on the GED site for a link to test your setup to make sure it matches the requirements.
Test proctors who work with online GED Math test takers have stated that the biggest problem when it comes to technology and taking online tests is the internet connection.
Before you get started, make sure that there are no other windows open and that you have notifications turned off. You might want to have a wired connection to your router for additional connection strength.
Ensure Wellbeing With Good Sleeping, Eating and Drinking
If you want to get the best out of yourself during the assessment, you will need to fuel yourself appropriately, which means eating well, staying hydrated, and getting adequate rest.
Most people need between six to eight hours of sleep a night, which should be what you aim for. Multiple scientific studies have shown that too little (or even too much) sleep can have a negative effect on cognitive abilities.
Eat regular, healthy, and nutritious meals, especially on the day of the test. Nerves might make you think that you don’t want to eat much, but you may be distracted if you are hungry while taking the test.
Hydration is also important. Make sure that you are drinking plenty of water as well and that you have some to hand in the assessment if you need it.
Online Registration
The GED website will be the first place you should go when you are going to be taking any of the GED assessments.
You will need to register for an online account on the site before you can schedule any of the four tests, and your location will pinpoint what the testing will look like for you.
Each state has slightly different rules about taking the test and different price points for each.
For example, if you are taking the GED in Washington, each test will cost $36, and you can choose to take the test online at home or in a test center. You’ll need to be aged 19 or over to take the GED Math test in Washington, although this varies state by state.
Registration is quick and simple; you just need to provide your name, address, and date of birth as shown on your government-issued ID. Then, once you are registered, you can take advantage of several different helpful tools, from revision guides to practice tests.
Taking the Test
When you schedule your GED, there are two options: taking it at a test center or taking it online at home.
Either way, you will need to schedule the test online using the GED website.
Online GED
The online version of the assessment will need you to have a webcam and a microphone set up, as the assessment is remotely proctored.
You will usually only be able to schedule one GED test at a time whether you decide to start with GED Math or Social Studies.
Once you have completed it, you can log back in to schedule the next one.
Once you have completed the assessment, your score will be available immediately, so you will know if you need to book a retake or move on to the next test in the series.
Test Centre GED
If you opt to take the GED in a test center, you will be able to schedule all tests to take place on the same day. This method will usually take about 7.5 hours, and you will receive each test result as you complete them.
Taking the test at a test center is often preferable because the whole process can be done and dusted in one day, and you can get on with sending your results to colleges and employers as needed.
What Is the Pass Score?
Each test in the GED is scored separately, and the top score achievable in all of them is 200.
To pass the GED, you need to score at least 145 in each test. If you don’t achieve this score, you should arrange a retest as soon as possible in the relevant test.
If you score between 165 and 174, you will be considered 'College Ready'. This means that your test results have shown that you are ready to take college-level courses and can be used to skip entry assessments in some cases.
If you score between 175 and 200, you have earned the designation 'College Ready + Credit', which means that your skills are appropriate for college-level courses and might also qualify for up to 10 college credits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the GED math test?
There are 46 GED Math test questions on the test, and you will have 115 minutes to complete the assessment.
How long is the math GED test?
The Math GED Test lasts for 115 minutes, which includes two minutes for instructions and final review and three minutes break between parts to collect your calculator.
How to pass the math GED test
The best way to pass the math GED test is through preparation and practice. This can be achieved using revision techniques, online practice tests with GED Math practice questions, and past papers.
Can you pass the GED if you fail math?
You need to pass all parts of the GED to pass; if you fail one section, you can retake it as often as you need to, although there may be an obligatory 60-day wait for multiple resits.
What score is needed to pass math GED?
You will need a score of 145 or more to pass the Math GED. The top score available on the assessment is 200.
How high does GED math go?
The content of the GED Math test is based on the skills and knowledge that a high school graduate should have. The top score available is 200, and you should aim to get more than 150 GED Math test answers correct to get a good pass.
Is the GED math test hard?
The GED Math test is designed to be challenging, but with the right preparation and practice, you will find it easier to get the score that you need to pass.
Is the GED Math practice test free?
Yes, many GED Math practice tests are available for free online. However, it's essential to verify the specific resources to ensure they are reputable and aligned with the GED test format.
Final Thoughts
If you do not have a high school diploma, then the GED is a good choice for you to demonstrate that you have the relevant skills and knowledge to have passed high school.
The GED tests are the most well-recognized high school equivalency tests in the US, with 97% of colleges and employers accepting them.
All of the GED tests are challenging, and you will need to pass all four, including the GED Math, but with the right practice and preparation for each, you can give yourself the best chance of success now and in the future.
