Obtaining Accommodations on GED Test

The GED test can be taken in either paper or computer format in English or Spanish languages.

Disability categories that qualify for accommodations on the GED Test include: 

• Learning and other cognitive disabilities
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Psychological and psychiatric disorders
• Physical and chronic health conditions.

GED Testing Services no longer provides a list of accommodations and now asks applicants to provide the types of accommodations they would like to seek.

• Commonly requested accommodations include: extra- time, reader/recorder, separate room, extra “stop the clock” breaks. 
• Applications should request modifications and accommodations noted on their documentation (i.e. IEP, evaluations) that they believe are needed.
• Alternative formats like Braille or large print, that were once not considered special testing accommodations and did not require formal approval, should now be requested during the request process.
• Some aids and modifications do not require pre-approval. See Pearson Comfort Aid List.
• Approved accommodations are generally valid for 1 year from the date of approval, with an option to extend. (See Frequently Asked Questions document.)

To apply for testing with accommodations:

• Requests are considered on a case by case basis
• Process can take 30 days after submitting required forms 
• During the account creation stage, applicants will be asked if they would like accommodations. Select yes and additional information on how to submit the request will be provided. 
  • Note: applicants will be guided to create an account in the GED Accommodation Request System. (see Requesting Accommodations FAQ sheet)
• In the GED Accommodation Request System, you will be asked to:
  • Select a disability category (Request Type) 
  • Select the type of accommodation you are seeking (Request Item)
  • Explain why you are requesting the accommodation (Request Rationale)
  • Upload supporting documentation. Eligible documentation must be within specific date periods as noted below: 
    • Learning and Other Cognitive Disabilities- within last 5 years 
    • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder- within last 5 years 
    • Psychological and Psychiatric Disorders- within last 1 year 
    • Physical Disorders and Chronic Health Conditions- within last 1 year
      • Note: There are documentation exceptions for long-term conditions (ex. Blindness). Submit documentation available and if more information is needed, the GED Accommodations department will contact you if there are questions.  
• For questions about accommodations, you can email accommodations@GED.com or visit the website https://ged.com/about_test/accommodations.

Below is a list of accommodations that can be requested. It is also a good idea to review and list accommodations noted on documents like an IEP or evaluation.

Types of Accommodations Available

• ASL interpretation
• Braille
• Large print
• Screen reader
• Assistive technology
• Talking calculator
• Scribe
• Preferred seating/separate location
• Calculators
• Audio examination
• Breaks
• Extra time (ex. 10 minute breaks)
• Accommodations not listed above that may be approved based on the test takers documented needs. Must be requested when applying for accommodation in the GED Accommodation Request System.  

Allowable Comfort/Aid Items (No Prior Approval Needed)

• Noise reducing headphones or earplugs
• Handheld magnifying glass not in case
• Cushion
• Facemask
• For more information see Personal Items and Minor Modifications.

Alternate Formats

• Spanish
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio
• Note: Alternative formats also must be requested when applying for accommodations

To learn more about the GED test and how to register, see our General Educational Development Test: Return of the GED tip sheet.