What organization administers the GED test for high school equivalency?

The General Educational Development (GED) test, a widely recognized pathway to high school equivalency, is administered by the GED Testing Service, which itself is a joint venture between the American Council on Education (ACE) and Pearson. While Pearson serves as the sole developer for the current GED test, the American Council on Education holds a foundational role, having initiated the GED program in 1942 and retaining ownership of the GED trademark. This partnership ensures the ongoing development, delivery, and integrity of the examination, which is available in all 50 U.S. states, numerous territories, and even internationally.

The roots of the GED test trace back to World War II, when the American Council on Education was commissioned to create a way for returning service members who had left high school early to demonstrate their academic proficiency. The purpose was to help veterans access postsecondary education benefits provided by the GI Bill, certifying that their military experience had equipped them with skills equivalent to a high school graduate. The program quickly expanded beyond veterans, becoming available to civilians in New York in 1947 and eventually to all 50 U.S. states by 1974, providing a crucial "second chance" credential for many.

Today, the GED credential continues to be a vital tool for adults seeking to further their education or improve their employment prospects. It measures proficiency across four core academic subjects: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. The credential is widely accepted, with a high percentage of U.S. employers, colleges, and universities recognizing it as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma, opening doors to new opportunities for millions of individuals.