What Are the GED Math Requirements?

Before taking the GED, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the Mathematical Reasoning section. Requirements for GED Math include completing its four test topics (Basic Math, Geometry, Algebra, and Graphs and Functions).

Learning the GED math requirements, the format, the time allotted to complete this section, and how you'll be scored are also important.

Keep reading to gain insight into the Mathematical Reasoning portion of the GED and how you can improve your ability to excel on the test.

Math Requirements for the GED Exam

To pass the Mathematical Reasoning portion of the GED, you must understand the exam's four test topics: Basic Math, Geometry, Basic Algebra, and Graphs and Functions.

Basic Math

The basic math portion of GED Math requires test takers to know how to perform the following using a calculator:

• addition
• subtraction
• multiplication
• division
• fractions
• decimals
• percentages
• roots
• exponents

In addition to solving individual problems, you'll need to perform basic math from word problems.

Geometry

The geometry portion of GED Math tests examinees' ability to use formulas relating to objects and shapes. You might be asked to calculate the following and more:

• surface area
• volume
• diameter
• radius

To make these calculations, you'll likely be provided a formula and asked to examine a drawing of a shape.

Algebra

The algebra portion of the GED exam assesses test takers' ability to determine the value of a variable in an equation.

This portion of the test might also ask examinees to review a word problem and then write a formula with a variable in it.

Graphs and Functions

For the graphs and functions portion of GED Math, test takers are asked to:

• analyze information in charts and graphs
• grasp ways data is organized
• demonstrate how to put data in tables

Examinees are also asked to showcase knowledge of statistics, probability, mean, mode, range, and median.

About the GED Math Exam

The GED Math (Mathematical Reasoning) portion of the GED exam is one of four test subjects. All subjects can be taken in one sitting or broken into separate exams.

Here are more details about GED Math.

How Many Questions Are on GED Math?

The Mathematical Reasoning section of the GED exam consists of 46 questions that are divided into two parts: Qualitative Reasoning and Algebraic Reasoning.

Qualitative Reasoning

Qualitative reasoning makes up 45% of GED Math and consists of data and statistics, fractions, geometric measurement, percents, ratios, proportions, and positive and negative whole numbers.

Algebraic Reasoning

Algebraic reasoning makes up 55% of the test and includes equations, expressions, linear and quadratic equations, polynomials, inequalities, functions, functions, and graphing skills.

Types of Questions on GED Math

GED Math consists of multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, drop-down, drag-and-drop, and hot-spot questions.

Multiple Choice

Choose from four options (A through D) and click the best answer.

Fill-in-the-Blank

Type a numerical answer, word, or phrase to answer a question, or enter an equation by opening a symbol selector and entering the symbol in a box.

Drop-Down

Click the word 'Select' and then pick the option that completes the statement.

Drag-and-Drop

Click a number, symbol, or image and drag and drop it to a specific location.

Hot-Spot Questions

Click on places or a specific plane on a geometric figure, number line, or coordinate grid.

GED Math Time Allotment and Scoring

Examinees are granted 115 minutes to take the GED Math exam. The minimum passing score for each GED section is 145.

Here are breakdowns of the test's time allotment and scoring:

GED Math Time Allotment

• Total time: 115 minutes
• Instruction and final review: 2 minutes
• Break between exam parts: 3 minutes

GED Math Scoring

• GED passing score: 145
• GED College Ready passing score: 165 - 174
• GED College Ready + Credit passing score: 175 - 200

College Ready enables students to skip placement tests or remedial courses in college. College Ready + Credit lets students use credits earned through the GED exam.

GED Math Cost, Scheduling & Locations

The cost of GED Math varies by location. For instance, the GED Math exam costs $36 in Alabama, $39 in Kansas, and $43.50 in Colorado.

It's important to note that the exam is offered online from home and in person at a test center. The cost of online testing might differ from in-person testing in some states.

If you want to take the test in person, GED offers a test center search tool that helps you locate the nearest center to your address.

To schedule your exam, you'll log into your GED account, choose to take the exam online or in person, pick GED Math and any other subjects, choose your test day and time, and pay online.

Tips for the GED Math Section

Now that you know the GED Math requirements, let's explore some tips for excelling on the exam.

Tip #1: Familiarize Yourself with Test Topics

Be sure to get reacquainted with the four test topics before exam day: Basic Math, Geometry, Algebra, and Graphs and Functions.

Tip #2: Prepare to Answer Different Types of Questions

Questions are delivered through multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, drop-down, and more. Learn tricks for answering different types of questions like using the process of elimination.

Tip #3: Use GED Practice Resources

GED offers a free online math practice test and math study guide to give you an idea of what to expect on exam day. Examinees can also purchase GED Flash interactive practice questions for all exam subjects.

Tip #4: Give Yourself Plenty of Study Time

You don't want to wait until days before the test to study. Give yourself as much time as possible to get comfortable with GED Math concepts and test questions so you feel confident on exam day.

FAQs About GED Math

Still have questions about GED Math and its requirements? Review these frequently asked questions:

What Is GED Math Equivalent To?

Employers and colleges view all GED subjects, including Mathematical Reasoning, the same way they view subjects required to complete a high school diploma.

Is Math a Hard Test for the GED?

The difficulty of the GED Math exam depends on how prepared each student is to answer questions about basic math, graphs, algebra, and more.

Can You Pass the GED If You Fail Math?

If you fail GED Math or any other test subject, you don't pass the GED exam. However, you might be able to retest up to two times with no restrictions between retakes.

Is a Calculator Allowed For the GED Math?

Yes, a calculator is allowed on the GED Math exam. Examinees can use an onscreen calculator on part 2 of the test as well as a TI-30XS calculator and calculator reference sheet.

Prepare for GED Math Today

Now that you know the GED Math requirements and understand the test's topics, format, scoring, cost, and more, your next step is to schedule your online or in-person test and study for exam day.