In the GED, there are four tests consisting of mathematical reasoning, reasoning through language arts, science, and social studies. The GED Social Studies test can assess an applicant's ability to draw conclusions from charts and graphs and analyze social research information. Try our free GED Social Studies practice test 2025 or take the FREE GED practice test for other sections on our website to get ready for your exam!
Our GED Social Studies Practice Test
It’s extremely important to take practice tests regularly. When you practice tests, you can learn not only about the subject fields that you’ll have to work on but also about which areas you have already mastered. Then, you can go over the topics that you already know and spend more time on your weaker points. By doing this, you definitely get a higher score on your GED exam.
GED Social Studies Test
The social studies section of the GED test is designed to test your knowledge of history, government, economics, and geography. It includes:
- Civics and Government account for 50% of the section
- U.S. History accounts for 20% of the section
- Economics accounts for 15% of the section
- Geography and the World accounts for 15% of the section
You won't be required to memorize factual information about each topic. It will favor social studies instead by dealing with real-life applications involving:
- Historical analysis and interpretation of events
- Read to understand social studies
- Interpret charts and numbers related to social studies
Best GED Social Studies Practice TestFAQs about GED Social Studies Test
Who can take the GED Social Studies Test?
You can take the GED Social Studies test, as well as other GED tests if you meet all the following requirements:
- You must be 16 years or older
- You are not enrolled in high school
- You have not graduated from high school
- You have to follow your state's additional requirements
Notice: Some states require additional documentation such as if people in Alabama are 17 years old, they must submit a notarized Student Exit Interview form from their school system. Candidates are encouraged to learn about their state's testing requirements and policies.
How much is the GED Social Studies Test?
The GED Social Studies test fee varies from state to state. Commonly, the testing fees vary from $3.75 to $30. (the test fee is usually under $30).
What type of questions is on the GED Social Studies Test?
The GED Social Studies test includes question types: Drop-down; Multiple choice; Drag and drop; Filling in the blank; Choose an area.
Read more >> GED Social Studies Study Guide In 2025
How many questions are on the GED Social Studies Test?
The number of questions on the GED Social Studies Test can be different depending on your state. Applicants have to complete the exam in 70 minutes.
What do you have to score to pass the GED Social Studies Test?
To pass the GED Social Studies test or any subject of the GED test, you must score at least 145. If you are taking the test in New Jersey, you must score at least 150.
How many times can you retake the GED Social Studies Test?
Applicants can take the GED Social Studies test or any other GED subject as many times as they need. Each state has its retest policy. In general, students can take the test 3 times, and after the 3rd time, they must wait 60 days before taking the test again. Additional state policies may only allow you to take the test a certain number of times a year such as applicants in Maryland can only take the test in three attempts a year. Applicants are encouraged to discover more information about their state's retest policies.
Is the GED Social Studies test difficult?
The GED Social Studies sub-test doesn't have to be difficult, but proper preparation is key to your success! Keep in mind that the GED Social Studies sub-test doesn't have much to do with memorizing facts and data. For example, you are not expected to remember historical details. Then again, if you don't prepare properly, you may have trouble dealing with dates, concepts, places, and names.
What to expect on test day
On test day, each test center follows different procedures. In the following, you will find some common testing rules.
You have to arrive at the test center before the test begins at least 15 minutes. If you arrive 15 minutes after the scheduled test time, you may not be able to take the test and may forfeit the test fee.
You can verify by non-expired photo identification card; a license, military ID, state-issued ID, and a passport. All of them are accepted.
You are allowed to bring the TI-30XS handheld calculator.
The test administration will provide you with three erasable notepads and a marker to use during the exam.
The test software provides you with a test timer so you can keep track of how much time you have left for the test. (You cannot minimize the timer for the last few minutes of the exam.)
All personal items, consisting of backpacks, wallets, and electronic devices are not allowed into the testing area. You can put your items in inventory if it's available.
Best GED Social Studies Practice Test
How to study for the GED Social Studies Test
If the thought of preparing for the GED test makes you feel overwhelmed, don't panic: there are millions of people across the country who feel the same way. The secret to dominating the GED, or any test, is understanding the test format and test topics. Breaking the GED makes it less scary and easier to overcome!
About Government. Do not worry! You don't have to master complicated political issues or memorize every fact about our government. Just get acquainted with the structure of our government, such as its various branches.
About History Date and Name, you don't have to memorize all about it. Because the exact date is not as important as the ability to interpret facts and ideas. The same applies to geography. Get an overview of these subjects, but practice how to think about them - and form your own opinions.
You will be also discussing specific events related to US history, including:
- The Louisiana Purchase
- The Industrial Revolution
- The Civil War
- NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
- And others
You should also practice these skills to read and understand history well:
- Recognize the opinion or biases and possible reasons
- Being able to separate facts, opinions, and propaganda
- Use evidence to draw possible conclusions
- Find out relationships between events, people, places, and processes
Regarding Economics, you don't have to worry about memorizing much. You also don't need to understand economic theories, such as how to avoid recessions. Instead, focus on important skills, such as:
- Reading graphs and numbers
- Differentiating between correlation and causation and between dependent and independent variables
- Applying data found in graphs, maps, tables, and charts
- Using statistical terms like median, mean, and mode
- Use Practice Tests for Success
Take our GED Social Studies Practice Test to pass this section easier. If you're worried about passing the social studies section of the test, check out the social studies practice material. Practice tests and materials are an important part of this study process:
- Use practice tests to find out which subject or skill is the hardest for you
- Study the material for your weakest points
- Retake the practice tests until you are confident that you can pass the actual test
You can access study guides and practice tests by creating a free account with GED Testing Service - the official practice site for the GED test. As you study and prepare to pass, you may feel less nervous before the test and more confident during the test.