Planning to finish your GED by year-end? Learn how to avoid the exam rush, plan your studies effectively, and get top tips—including how to ace the essay on the RLA test.
If you’re a Go Prep student aiming to complete all four GED exams by the end of the year, now’s the time to make a solid plan and stick to it.
If you plan to study further next year, be sure to check the closing date for application dates for the institution/s of your choice. Then plan to get all your tests completed in time to complete your applications.
If you don’t have application deadlines, then still plan carefully if you intend completing all four tests by the end of the current year. (You don’t have to!)
Every year, we see a surge in bookings during November and December—and unfortunately, many students get caught out by fully booked test centres or holiday closures, typically between Christmas and New Year. To avoid the year-end crunch and give yourself the best chance of success, here’s what you need to know:
Aim to Finish Studying by September
Plan your studies so you complete each subject—Maths, RLA, Science, and Social Studies—by the end of September. This gives you enough time to:
- Review and revise key concepts
- Take your GED Ready® practice tests to assess your readiness
- Schedule your official exams strategically, ideally in October
By finishing early, you’ll dodge the stress of the November/December rush and have more flexibility to reschedule if needed.
Book Early, Avoid Disappointment
Test slots for November and December fill up quickly—especially at popular centres. Even if you feel confident, don’t wait until the last minute to book. It’s always better to secure a spot early and reschedule it later if needed than to scramble for availability during the holidays.
And remember—even if your Go Prep enrolment has expired, you can still book and sit for GED exams in January or beyond. So if life happens and you don’t finish everything this year, it’s not the end of the road!
Struggle with Writing? We’ve Got You Covered
The RLA (Reasoning Through Language Arts) test includes a timed argumentative essay, which can trip up many students. That’s why we highly recommend our Acing the Argumentative Essay mini-course.
This short course gives you:
- A crystal-clear understanding of what the exam expects
- A simple, repeatable writing strategy
- Practice opportunities to build your confidence
It’s one of the best tools to boost your RLA score—and your overall confidence.
Additional Tips for GED Success
Here are a few more ways to stay focused and finish strong:
- Break your studies into weekly study time goals. This helps you stay on track and measure progress.
- Use the GED Ready® practice tests wisely. Take them only when you feel prepared, and use your scores to guide your final review. Aim for 155 or higher so you achieve a good passing score.
- Schedule regular breaks. Don’t burn out. A well-rested brain learns faster!
- Book a face-to-face sessions with a GED tutor if you’re stuck—they’re there to help!
- Know the rules. Read up on GED test-day procedures, ID requirements and testing policies so you’re not caught off guard.
One Step at a Time
Preparing for the GED is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistent effort, a clear timeline and the right support make all the difference.
So grab your calendar, make your plan and let’s cross that finish line—before the rush!
Online GED Test Booking – follow our step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process.