What Happens If You Fail Your Online GED Test? Options to Bounce Back Quickly
Failed your online GED test? Don’t worry! Learn what happens next, how to retake the exam, and essential tips to bounce back quickly. Explore your options and get back on track!

Failing your online GED test can be disappointing, but it’s not the end of the road. Many test-takers don’t pass on their first attempt, and there are multiple ways to recover quickly and improve your score. Whether you missed the passing mark by a few points or need to retake multiple sections, this guide will help you navigate the next steps efficiently.
Understanding GED Test Scoring
The GED test consists of four subjects:
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Mathematical Reasoning
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Reasoning Through Language Arts
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Science
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Social Studies
Each section is scored between 100 and 200 points, with a passing score of 145 per subject. If you score below 145 on any section, you will need to retake that portion.
Immediate Steps After Failing the GED Test
If you fail the GED test online, don’t panic. Follow these steps to get back on track:
1. Review Your Score Report
Your score report will indicate the areas where you struggled. This is a valuable resource to help you understand your weaknesses and focus your study efforts accordingly.
2. Understand the Retake Policy
Each state has different retake policies, but generally, you can:
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Retake the test up to three times without a waiting period.
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If you fail three times, you might need to wait 60 days before retaking it again.
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Some states offer discounted retake fees.
Check with your local GED testing service for the exact rules in your area.
3. Identify Your Weak Areas
Look at which questions you missed and determine if you struggled with time management, specific concepts, or test anxiety. Use this insight to build a stronger study plan.
4. Consider Professional Help
If you’re struggling to improve on your own, consider professional tutoring or GED prep courses. Many online platforms offer personalized guidance to help you pass the exam successfully.
How to Prepare for a Retake
To ensure you pass on your next attempt, follow these strategies:
1. Create a Study Plan
A structured study plan will help you stay organized. Focus more on the subjects where you scored the lowest.
2. Use Official GED Practice Tests
Practice tests are a great way to familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify the types of questions you may encounter.
3. Join Study Groups
Engaging with others who are also preparing for the GED can provide motivation and helpful insights.
4. Manage Test Anxiety
If anxiety played a role in your failure, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation before your next exam.
Alternative Options If You Struggle With the GED Test
If you’ve retaken the test multiple times without success, consider alternative pathways:
1. Enroll in a GED Prep Program
GED prep programs provide structured learning and expert guidance to help you pass the test more effectively.
2. Consider a High School Diploma Program
Some adult education programs offer alternative ways to earn a high school diploma instead of a GED.
3. Explore Online Help
Many online services can assist with test preparation. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you might wonder, can someone take my exam for me? While it’s important to pass on your own, legitimate tutoring services can significantly boost your chances of success.
Final Thoughts
Failing the online GED test is not the end of the world. With the right approach, you can bounce back quickly, improve your score, and move forward in your academic and career journey. Take advantage of retake policies, study smarter, and use available resources to ensure you pass on your next attempt.
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