College of Western Idaho

Testing Sessions

What happens at a testing session?
  • If it is your first time testing at our site, you will need to pre-register. You can do this online at www.ged123.org and bring a copy to your testing session or you may do so in person by arriving 30 minutes prior to your first testing session.
  • You will need to arrive 10 minutes prior to your testing session. At each testing session, a GED examiner will check your ID, hand out materials, read directions and start all of the test takers at a common time.
  • During the test, you may not take any breaks.
  • You may leave early if you finish before the time limit is up - being careful to not disturb the other testers.
  • If you are staying for another test, you will need to return approximately 10 minutes before the start of your next exam.
How long does each test take?

GED Test Length Content/Comments
Writing 2 hours

Part 1 consists of multiple choice questions covering organization, sentence structure, usage and mechanics. Part 2 is writing essay.

Social Studies 1 hour 10 minutes Covers national and world history, economics, government and geography.
Science 1 hour 20 minutes Covers life, earth, space and physical science (chemistry & physics).
Mathematics 1 hour 30 minutes Calculators are provided on part 1. Calculators are not allowed on part 2.
Reading 1 hour 5 minutes Multiple choice questions covering literary text and non-fiction prose.

What do I bring to my testing session?
  • You must bring current photo identification and your testing fee receipt. Acceptable forms of ID include: valid state issued driver's license, passport, military ID or other forms of government issued identification that shows name, address, date of birth, signature and a photograph. High school ID cards and expired IDs are not accepted.
  • You should NOT bring cell phones, portable music players, handheld electronic games, cameras, personal calculators, mechanical pencils, sunglasses or hats. These items are prohibited at the tester's seat.