Not passing your GED on the first attempt stings—financially and emotionally—but retakes are a routine part of the process, and costs are manageable if you plan ahead. Understanding exactly what you'll pay, how many attempts you get, and where to find affordable prep support can turn a setback into a strategic second (or third) shot at passing.
How Much Does a GED Retake Cost?
The test fee itself is straightforward: a single GED subject test (Math, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, or Social Studies) costs between $30 and $40 depending on your state and testing center. If you retake all four subjects, expect to budget $120–$160 per attempt.
However, most people don't fail all four subtests. If you only need to retake one or two subjects, your cost drops significantly. A single retake of Math or RLA runs $30–$40; two subjects cost $60–$80. That's the hard cost, but preparation—tutoring, online courses, or practice materials—often adds to the total.
Prep Costs Add Up Quickly
Beyond the test fee itself, GED prep expenses vary widely:
- Free resources: Khan Academy partnerships with GED.com offer free practice tests and video lessons; your local library may provide free test prep classes
- Online prep platforms: $30–$150 for comprehensive platforms like Kaplan or IXL (often one-time purchase)
- GED.com official prep: $35/month or $89 for three-month access
- In-person tutoring: $25–$75 per hour; intensive prep courses run $300–$800
- Practice test bundles: $15–$50
If you failed because of weak foundational skills, hiring a tutor for 5–10 hours before your second attempt might cost $125–$750. Combining a low-cost online platform ($50) with a few tutoring sessions ($200) brings a realistic retake prep budget to around $250–$350 before the test fee.
State Variations and Testing Limits
Most states allow unlimited GED retakes, but a few impose restrictions. Some states require a waiting period—typically 7 to 60 days—between attempts on the same subject. A handful (like Kentucky) cap attempts per calendar year. Check your state's GED testing center rules before planning multiple retakes in quick succession.
If you're switching to HiSET instead, costs are similar: test fees run $30–$35 per subject, with comparable prep pricing.
Finding Affordable Prep Support
Many test-takers don't realize where to find low-cost or free preparation:
- Adult education programs: Most community colleges offer free or subsidized GED prep classes, often with flexible evening schedules
- Non-profit organizations: Organizations like Jobs for the Future or local workforce development boards provide free prep and testing support to eligible adults
- Employer sponsorship: Some employers cover test fees and prep costs for employees pursuing their GED
- Online communities: Free Reddit threads, Facebook groups, and YouTube channels run by GED instructors offer targeted help for specific subjects
Mercoly makes it easier to compare GED & HiSET prep providers and tutors in your area, helping you find trusted, affordable options without sifting through countless listings yourself.
Smart Retake Strategy
Before spending money on a second attempt, identify what went wrong:
- Did you run out of time? Practice timed tests and focus on pacing drills
- Did you misunderstand content? Target tutoring on weak subjects (most people struggle with Math or Science)
- Were you anxious or unprepared? A focused 2–4 week prep sprint often works better than cramming the night before
Spacing your retake 3–4 weeks out gives you enough time for focused prep without the burnout of a months-long grind. A concentrated, targeted approach costs less than unfocused preparation repeated multiple times.
Budget for Your Retake
A realistic retake budget breaks down like this:
- Test fee: $30–$80 (one or two subjects)
- Prep platform or tutor: $50–$300
- Practice materials: $0–$50 (use free resources first)
Total realistic range: $80–$430 depending on how much support you need.
If you failed all four subjects and need comprehensive help, budget $500–$1,000 for thorough prep plus all test fees. If you're retaking one subject after identifying a specific weakness, $150–$250 is often sufficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I retake just the subjects I failed, or do I have to retake all four GED tests? You only retake the subjects you didn't pass, which keeps costs and study time lower on your second attempt.
Q: How soon after failing can I retake the GED? Most states allow retakes immediately or after a 7–60 day waiting period, though a few limit attempts per calendar year; check your state's testing center for specific rules.
Q: Is it better to hire a tutor or use an online prep platform for my retake? It depends on your learning style and weak spots—tutors excel at targeted help for specific subjects, while platforms work well for self-directed learners who need structured practice.
Find a GED prep provider that matches your budget and learning style on Mercoly today.