The GED® test consists of four subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Social Studies, and Science. Each is scored on a scale from 100 to 200. A score of 145 is the minimum to pass a subject and earn your high school equivalency credential. Scores are categorized into three performance levels:
- Below Passing: 100–144 (does not meet high school equivalency standards)
- GED Passing Score: 145–164 (demonstrates high school equivalency)
- GED College Ready: 165–174 (indicates readiness for credit-bearing college courses without remediation)
- GED College Ready + Credit: 175–200 (may earn college credits at participating institutions)
A 157 falls in the GED Passing Score range (145–164). This means:
- You’ve passed the subject and met high school equivalency standards.
- You are not yet “College Ready.” Colleges typically require 165+ to waive placement tests or remedial classes.
- Percentile context: A 157 places you roughly in the 60th–70th percentile of GED graduates (exact percentile varies slightly by subject and year).
Example Breakdown (hypothetical but realistic):
| Subject | Score | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Reasoning | 157 | GED Passing |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts | 152 | GED Passing |
| Social Studies | 160 | GED Passing |
| Science | 155 | GED Passing |
| Average | 156 | High School Equivalency Earned |
What Should You Do with a 157?
- Celebrate passing you’ve earned your credential!
- Consider retaking if aiming for college. Raising a 157 to 165+ is often achievable with targeted prep (many test-takers improve 10–20 points on retakes).
- Check state policies: Some states offer incentives or scholarships for 165+ scores.
In short, 157 = passed, credential earned, but not college-ready. Use official GED score reports for precise percentiles and college policies.