GED Math Practice Test

The General Educational Development (GED) Math test is one of four tests needed to obtain the GED credential. If you do not have a high school diploma, the GED credential provides you the opportunity to gain an equivalent certificate while proving that you possess the academic skills equivalent to graduating high school seniors.

The four tests that form the GED are Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Social Studies, and Science. This article discusses the Mathematical Reasoning exam.

 Study Guide

Can I take the GED?

There are specific eligibility requirements for GED candidates that are determined by each state. To take the exam, you need to be at least 16 years old and not enrolled in high school. Some states require that you have been out of high school for at least 60 consecutive days, while some states may require proof of completion of a GED preparation course. Contact the GED Program Administrator in your state for specific requirements.

You can take all four exams in one appointment, or you can take the exams individually.

How do I register for the GED Mathematical Reasoning exam?

To register for any test of the GED, you first need an account on the GED website. Information on your state requirements can be found on the website as well as the cost of the exam. Each test of the GED has a charge which varies by state, generally no higher than $45.00 per exam. The fee can fluctuate based on your income, and some states have programs that provide financial assistance for the GED.

You can register through your GED account 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The website lists the available testing dates and locations of the exam.


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Test design

The purpose of the math test is to assess your ability to evaluate mathematical concepts and apply those concepts to presented scenarios. The exam assesses your problem-solving, reasoning, and analytical skills. Prompts may require your understanding of graphs, charts, diagrams, and tables to apply mathematical concepts and solve real-world situations. Other knowledge tested on the math exam include ratios, rational numbers, percent, proportions, expressions, linear inequalities, and functions.

The exam is delivered by computer and consists of a combination of question formats including multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, hot spot, drop-down, and fill-in-the-blank. Each question has four possible answers with only one correct response. The exam is divided into two parts: part one consists of five questions and part two consists of 41 questions. You have a three-minute break during the transition from part one to part two. The total time allowed for the Mathematical Reasoning exam is 115 minutes, including the break. An on-screen calculator is provided for part two, or you may bring a TI-30XS calculator. A math formula sheet is provided.

Forty-five percent of the exam tests your quantitative problem-solving skills using number operations and geometric thinking. Fifty-five percent of the exam assesses your algebraic problem-solving skills. There are four content areas on the math test:

  • Basic math. Number operations (fractions, decimals, and whole numbers) and number sense questions make up 20 to 30% of the questions on the math exam.
  • Geometry. Measurement, volume, the Pythagorean Theorem, surface area, and graphical data make up 20 to 30% of the total questions on the math exam.
  • Basic algebra. Twenty to 30 percent of questions asked on the math exam covers your understanding of addition, subtraction, multiplication, linear expressions, algebraic expressions, functions, and patterns.
  • Graphs and functions. Using graphs, tables, equations, diagrams, and charts, 20 to 30% of the questions examine your ability to locate points, identify linear and nonlinear relationships, determine proportional relationships, and identify the slope and equation of a line from two points.

Each question on the exam uses context from family life, consumer interactions, work environments, technology, and daily life-scenarios. The design of the test is developed to allow individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds the chance to apply their knowledge gained through life experience.

On the day of your exam

When it is time for you to take your exam, follow the directions provided, and ensure you have the required identification. You can bring a calculator for part two of the math test, make sure it meets the specifications given to you.

You have the opportunity to flag questions that you want to return to, move back and forth between questions in each section, and change your answers. Part one of the math test is given first, and it must be completed before you can move on to Part two. To help you plan your time, understand that you have about three minutes per question. If you use three minutes on each question, you will not have time to review your answers before time runs out. Budget yourself and try to save a bit of time to review your answers before submitting them for scoring.

Did I pass?

To pass the GED Mathematical Reasoning exam, you need to obtain a score of 145. To pass the complete GED, you need to obtain a score of 145 on each test for a total score of 580. Your score results are available within three to 24 hours after you take the exam in your GED online account.

If you did not pass on your first attempt, do not worry. Review your score report to identify your weak area(s), and focus your study on those areas. If you try and fail a subject test three times, you have to wait 60 days before retesting.

Your future is in your hands!

You have an opportunity to take control of your future by obtaining your GED credential. The GED is recognized in all 50 states, and 97% of employers and colleges accept the GED for entry-level positions and acceptance into academic programs. Using study tools such as Mometrix’s study guide and flashcards increase your success. Be the author of your future – with Mometrix on your side, you have nothing to lose.

Online GED Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online GED Prep Course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The GED Course includes:

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The GED Prep Course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their GED exam. Click below to check it out!