Eligibility Requirements For GED In Illinois

You may learn more about how to obtain a GED in Illinois by reading the answers to the questions related to GED requirements in Illinois we receive below.

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GED eligibility requirements in Illinois

Earning a General Educational Development (GED) diploma is a great idea all around, whether you want to advance at work, go to college, or boost your self-esteem. If you are considering taking the time to obtain this valuable educational certification, here is everything you need to remember about the Illinois GED test.

  • You have to live in Illinois for 30 days.
  • You cannot be a high school graduate or enrolled in an accredited high school.
  • In order to receive your certificate, you must pass the U.S. and Illinois Constitution Test.
  • You must be at least 18 years old. There are additional criteria if you are under the age of 18.
  • Cost: $120 (all subjects) or $30 (per subject)
  • The minimum passing score for each subject: 145
  • Accommodations: You must submit a request for disability accommodations via the GED® Testing Service website.
  • The Illinois Community College Board will provide you with a GED certificate if you pass the exam and the Constitution Test, showing that you have attained the same level of knowledge as a high school graduate.

You may learn more about how to obtain a GED in Illinois by reading the answers to the questions we receive the most below.

What subjects are tested on the GED in Illinois?

The GED test in Illinois differs slightly from those in other states. You must still pass the standard 5-part test, which covers the major subjects covered in high school: math, social studies, science, language arts writing, and language arts reading. However, you still must pass a second constitutional test. If you can show proof that you've already taken the second test, you will be exempt from taking it again. This test will ask you questions about:

  • The American Declaration of Independence
  • The United States Constitution
  • The Illinois State Constitution
  • The United States Flag Code
  • The three branches of government in the United States and Illinois

You will have roughly 7.5 hours to respond to 240 multiple choice questions and write 1 essay for the language arts writing portion of the GED test. You may use a calculator for the first half of the math section but not for the second.

How is the Illinois GED scored?

A minimum cumulative score of 2,250 is required to pass the Illinois GED test. There are 4,000 points available for a sum of 800 points for each test. No single test score can fall below 410; otherwise, that section will receive a failing grade and you will have to retake it. The Constitution test only pass/fail.

The test may be retaken a maximum of three times per year. If you run out of retakes, you will need to wait until the following year to try again. Although there is no waiting period among retakes, it is a great idea to study before retaking the exam.

Are there any online resources for GED?

It is critical to study if you want to pass the GED test and the Constitution test. Many Illinois colleges and adult education centers provide GED prep courses that cover everything you need to know for the test. If you've been out of school for a while, these classes will get you back on track. Another option is to study independently with GED study guides purchased in both online and offline bookstores, and GED practice tests can be downloaded from this website.

How do I obtain a GED in Illinois?

You may be wondering, like many Americans, "How can I acquire my GED fast?" The good news is that obtaining a GED certificate is simpler than you may have imagined. You may achieve your goals more quickly if you start early.

Take the following steps:

  1. Verify Your Eligibility: Each state has different requirements for test-taker eligibility.
  2. Learn the Material: Prepare for the GED exam. You have the option of studying alone, in a nearby prep class, or online.
  3. Practice the Material: Create a tranquil study area. Use a study guide or online classes to narrow your focus. Use practice tests to evaluate your understanding.
  4. Register: You can schedule your test online whenever you are ready.
  5. Take the Test: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID on exam day. Do not bring personal items into the testing area.

If you pass the test, the State of Illinois will provide you with a GED certificate, which will attest to the fact that you have attained the same level of knowledge as a high school graduate.

How many times am I allowed to retake the Illinois GED if I fail?

Although some states have specific rules regarding test retakes, you can normally take the exam about three times per year. You won't need to retake any of the previously passed subjects.

What is on the GED Math test in Illinois?

  • You should be confident to use math to solve problems in real life and familiar with mathematical concepts, measurements, and equations.
  • You will be provided a formula sheet in the test center and on the screen in the test so you don't have to memorize any formulas.
  • You can assess your test readiness using our math practice tests. You can get all the math you need to learn at a low cost from our website.

In Illinois, what high school equivalency tests are available?

GED and HiSET are the two high school equivalency tests offered in Illinois. Both are accepted at 99% of colleges and both are equivalent to a high school diploma. With a Illinois HiSET or Illinois GED, you can find a fantastic job, earn a degree, or join the military.

How long is the GED exam in Illinois?

SUBJECT

TIME

Math

115 minutes

Social Studies

90 minutes

Science

90 minutes

Language Arts

150 minutes

Total

7 hours, 41 minutes

How many questions are there on the GED test in Illinois?

SUBJECT

# OF QUESTIONS

Math

46

Social Studies

35

Science

34

Language Arts

46

If I don't pass a subject on the Illinois GED exam, can I retake it?

For each subject, you can retake it up to 2 times without having to wait. For the fourth attempt, you have to wait 60 days. Your first two retakes will be offered at a discounted rate. You will get two more discounted retakes after waiting 60 days and paying the full price. All retakes have to be completed within a year after the initial attempt.

Can I take the Illinois GED exam online?

You can take the Illinois GED test online or at an official Illinois GED testing center. You can use our list of Illinois testing centers to locate the one that is most convenient for on-site testing.

There will be an Online Proctored (OP) GED test option starting on September 1st, 2021, so you can take your GED test remotely (online).

What age must I be to take the Illinois GED exam?

In Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old to take the GED exam. 

You may take the test if you are 17 years old and meet the following requirements:

  • You are in possession of a government (national or foreign)-issued photo ID.
  • You are an Illinois resident.
  • You do not attend school (If you are enrolled in an approved in-school GED preparation program, you are excepted.)
  • You didn't complete high school.
  • You have parental or guardian consent.

If you are 16 years old, you must be in compliance with the aforementioned conditions, in the care of a state agency, under a court order, or enrolled in a Job Corps training program.

You must attend school in Illinois if you are under the age of 18.

How can I apply for an age waiver in Illinois?

You can ask your local school board for an age waiver if you are under 18 years old.  In order to take the test, you must have permission from the school board.

How can I obtain a copy of my Illinois GED test transcript?

You can ask for a copy of your Illinois GED transcript by contacting the GED testing service.