A person in the United States or Canada can earn the equivalent of a high school diploma taking the General Educational Development (GED®) test. GED® transcripts contain the results of the GED® test. The test taker’s score in each of the five areas tested in the exam, including writing, reading, science, social studies, and mathematics, will be listed on these transcripts.
After the test has been completed and scored, GED® transcripts are usually mailed. Transcript copies may be required for college or job applications. The American Council on Education is usually a good place to start.
When GED® transcripts are received, they will include the test taker’s full legal name, address, and date of birth. The name of the examiner and the date the test was given may also be included on the form. When a person takes the GED® more than once, the transcript will only show the highest score.
Each of the GED® test’s five sections is scored separately, and each score is recorded on the transcript. Pass, fail, or incomplete scores are all possible outcomes. Each state’s passing scores may differ. If the person did not take or complete all five sections of the exam, an incomplete mark will be listed in the status section. On the transcripts, a pass, fail, or incomplete status may also be listed.
GED® transcripts include a standard score for each section in addition to pass or fail. The range of possible scores is 200 to 800. This number will reflect the individual’s test performance in comparison to that of a Grade 12 student. The score does not indicate how many questions on the test the candidate answered correctly or incorrectly.
A percentile ranking for each section may also be included on transcripts. The test taker’s score is compared to the scores of others who have taken the same test. The person’s percentile ranking will rise as their overall score rises.
On GED® transcripts, the date the test was taken may be listed for all five sections. The test form that was used for each section may be included in some transcripts. GED® transcripts usually include the testing center’s address and phone number. The test format style and the GED® testing center’s identification number may also be included on the transcript.