The GED Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) test takes 150 minutes, or two and a half hours. That includes a 10-minute break built into the middle of the test, so your actual testing time is 140 minutes of work.
How the Three Sections Break Down
The RLA test is split into three sections. You work through the first two sections, take your 10-minute break, and then complete the third section. All three sections combine reading comprehension questions with a writing component, including an extended response (essay) where you analyze a pair of passages and build an argument based on the evidence they provide.
The reading and language questions are multiple choice, drag-and-drop, drop-down, and fill-in-the-blank. They test your ability to understand what you read, identify an author’s purpose, evaluate arguments, and apply standard English grammar and usage rules. The passages come from a mix of informational texts (like workplace documents or opinion pieces) and literary fiction.
What to Know About the Essay
The extended response is the most time-intensive single task on the test. You’ll read two passages that take different positions on an issue, then write an essay explaining which argument is better supported and why. You need to cite specific evidence from the texts rather than relying on your own opinion.
Your essay is scored on three traits: how well you analyze the arguments and use evidence, how clearly you develop and organize your ideas, and how effectively you use standard English conventions like grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. A weak showing in any one of those areas can pull your score down, so budgeting enough time to plan, draft, and proofread matters.
Managing Your Time
With 140 minutes of working time covering both reading questions and an essay, pacing is one of the biggest challenges on the RLA test. Many test-takers spend too long on the reading sections and rush through the essay, or vice versa. A practical approach is to note how much time remains when you start the extended response section and reserve a few minutes at the end for reviewing your writing.
The 10-minute break is mandatory in the schedule, so use it. Stand up, stretch, and reset your focus. The final section after the break is when fatigue tends to set in, and a short mental pause helps.
Extra Time for Documented Disabilities
If you have a documented disability that affects your ability to take timed tests, you can request accommodations through GED Testing Service. Accommodations are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and you’ll need documentation supporting your request. To start the process, reach out to accommodations@GED.com before your test date. Approval comes from GED Testing Service directly, not from your local testing center or state office, so build in extra lead time when scheduling.
How It Compares to Other GED Subjects
At 150 minutes, the RLA test is the longest of the four GED subject tests. Mathematical Reasoning runs 115 minutes, Social Studies takes 70 minutes, and Science takes 90 minutes. If you’re planning to take multiple subjects on the same day, keep in mind that you’ll also get a 10-minute break between each separate subject test. Stacking the RLA with another subject means a long day at the testing center, so factor that into your scheduling decision.