The English test focused on correctness and effectiveness of expression and the social studies, science, and literature tests depended on interpreting reading material. The 1978 test introduced a separate reading test and moved away from testing recall of facts to testing conceptual knowledge and evaluating information presented. A more detailed description of the content of each part of the test and the changes in the test content over time is attached. The same information can be found at the American Council on Education's GED website . The passing score is based on how well a sample of U.S. high school seniors performs on the tests.
States are free to set higher requirements.
ACE currently requires candidates to earn a minimum score of 40 on each test and an average of 45 on all five tests. In order to get a Connecticut State High School diploma, an applicant must score at least 40 on each part of the test and have a total score of at least 225. For an honors diploma, Connecticut requires a minimum score of 55 on each part of the test and a total score of at least 300.