GED test subjects and format: what to expect

The four GED tests at a glance: time allowed, topics, question types, calculator rules and breaks for Maths, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies.

All guides · Reviewed 7 October 2026

Short answer: The GED has four computer-based tests: Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes), Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes, including a 45-minute essay), Science (90 minutes) and Social Studies (70 minutes). Together they take about seven hours, and you can write them on separate days.

The four tests

Mathematical Reasoning, 115 minutes. Basic maths, geometry, basic algebra, graphs and functions. A short first part has no calculator; after that you may use the on-screen calculator. A formula sheet is provided. Maths guide
Reasoning Through Language Arts, 150 minutes. Reading for meaning, identifying and creating arguments, grammar and language, and one written essay with 45 minutes allowed. There is a 10-minute break. Language Arts guide
Science, 90 minutes. Reading for meaning in science, designing and interpreting experiments, and using numbers and graphics. Science guide
Social Studies, 70 minutes. Reading for meaning in social studies, analysing historical events and arguments, and using numbers and graphs. Social Studies guide

Question types

The GED is not only multiple choice. You will also meet:

Dropdown: choose the right word or number from a list inside a sentence.
Drag and drop: move items into the right order or the right place.
Fill in the blank: type a number or a word.
Select an area: click the right spot on a graph, map or diagram.
Extended response: the Language Arts essay.

These formats are unfamiliar to many people the first time. You can practise them free on our question format practice page, without an account.

Tools you are given

An on-screen scientific calculator (the TI-30XS) for most of Maths and for Science and Social Studies.
A maths formula sheet and a calculator reference sheet.
An erasable note board for working out.

Common questions

How long is the GED test?

About seven hours in total: Maths 115 minutes, Language Arts 150 minutes, Science 90 minutes and Social Studies 70 minutes. You can write the subjects on different days.

Is the GED all multiple choice?

No. It also has dropdown, drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank and select-an-area questions, plus one essay in Language Arts.

Can I use a calculator on the GED?

Yes, an on-screen TI-30XS calculator is available for most of the Maths test and for Science and Social Studies. A short first part of Maths has no calculator.

Sources

GED Testing Service: test subjects