HiSET vs GED

The GED (General Education Development) and HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) are two of the most common exams that people take to obtain a high school equivalency credential.

While the GED and HiSET share the same overall purpose, there are some key differences between the two tests. The main differences lie in the format, content, scoring, and availability across different states.

Understanding these differences can help you determine which test is the better option for your specific needs and preferences.

HiSET Test

The HiSET is an assessment designed to certify that a test taker has attained academic knowledge and skills equivalent to those of a high school graduate.

The non-profit organization Educational Testing Service (ETS), which is the largest creator of educational assessment systems in the United States, developed the HiSET test.

The HiSET program has been in operation since January 2014. Its purpose is to identify those test takers who have performed at a level consistent with high school equivalency and to help determine if they are career and college ready.

According to the 2017 Annual Statistical Report on the HiSET Exam:

In 2017, the total number of examinees tested increased compared to 2016, but the overall passing rate and completion rate decreased slightly.
Male examinees tended to have slightly higher passing rates than female examinees.
Non-Hispanic examinees had higher passing rates than Hispanic examinees.
The majority of examinees (60.5%) reported that they prepared for the HiSET by attending test preparation classes and/or receiving tutoring.

GED Test

The purpose of the GED test is to certify academic knowledge equivalent to a high school diploma for those who do not complete high school to earn a Certificate of High School Equivalency.

It was established by the American Council on Education in 1942. The GED is offered in the United States, Canada and Australia. The GED Testing Service, a joint venture of the American Council on Education, oversees the program and test development.

If you want to pass your GED test, you need to make maximum use of the online GED study notes and practice test questions. This approach will help you pass the GED quickly and with ease.

What is the Difference Between the HiSET and GED?

The HiSET and GED are two widely recognized high school equivalency tests with key differences in various aspects:

Format
Cost
Scoring
Eligibility

Format

HiSET: Offers both paper-based and computer-based testing options.
GED: Only available in a computer-based format, except in New Jersey where all tests are computerized.

Cost

HiSET: Costs vary by state, with some states offering the test for free. The price for a computer-based test ranges from $18.75 to $23 per module, while paper tests cost $23.
GED: The average cost is around $30, but fees can be as low as $4 in some states like Arkansas or as high as $38 in others like Oregon.

Scoring

HiSET: Scores are on a scale of 1-20 for each section.
GED: Scores are on a scale of 100-200 for each section, with a minimum passing score of 145 required on each section.

Eligibility

HiSET: people must be at least 16 years old and have state-approved adult education program enrollment and test authorization.
GED: Test takers must be at least 17 years old and not currently enrolled in high school, with some exceptions for under-age students who meet specific requirements.

These differences in format, cost, scoring, eligibility criteria, and test content make it essential for people to carefully consider their personal preferences, goals, and circumstances when choosing between the HiSET and GED tests.

GED and HiSET Subjects

The GED and HiSET exams measure the same core academic skills, but there are some differences in the subject material covered. The HiSET consists of five subject areas: Language Arts – Reading, Language Arts – Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, with varying time limits for each section.

The GED consists of four sections: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies, each with its own time limit and content focus.

Mathematics
Language Arts
Science
Social studies

Mathematics

The HiSET math section is generally considered slightly easier than the GED math section. The HiSET math covers more basic high school-level math concepts, while the GED math has more advanced topics like trigonometry and algebra.
On the HiSET, the math section has 50 multi-choice questions and a 90-minute time limit. The GED math section has 46 questions and a 115-minute time limit.
Be sure to make use of our GED Math study notes to equip you with the required skills and knowledge to get a good in this section of the GED test. We provide you with the most recent version of GED math practice questions and study notes.

Reading and Writing

The HiSET has separate reading and writing sections, with 40 reading questions and 44 writing questions. The Language Arts – Reading section tests your reading comprehension and analysis skills. The Language Arts – Writing section assesses your writing skills, including a 45-minute essay.
The GED has a combined Reasoning through Language Arts section with 46 questions covering reading, writing, and language skills.
You will need to prepare well to pass the GED RLA section. You have to utilize online RLA study guides designed for test. These guides provide valuable information, practice questions, and tips to help you pass the test.

Science

The HiSET science section includes questions on various scientific topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science. It evaluates skills like analysis, interpretation, and synthesis. The HiSET science section consists entirely of multiple-choice questions which take 80 minutes.
The GED Science section is a 90-minute test that assesses a test-taker’s understanding of scientific concepts and methods. It is divided into three main categories: Life Science (40%), Physical Science (40%), and Earth and Space Science (20%). The test evaluates the ability to read and interpret scientific texts, diagrams, tables, graphs, and maps, as well as apply scientific concepts and theories to real-world situations.
If you want to pass your GED Science test, you need to make maximum use of the online practice test questions. This will help you pass the GED quickly and with ease.

Social Studies

The HiSET Social Studies section covers four content areas: History (35%), Civics/Government (35%), Economics (20%), and Geography (10%). It assesses your ability to analyze and evaluate social studies information. This section consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and test-takers have 70 minutes to complete it.
The GED Social Studies test is 70 minutes long and consists of approximately 48 questions. It covers four main content areas: Civics and Government (50%), U.S. History (20%), Economics (15%) and Geography and the World (15%).
Get a good score in your GED Social Studies test, you need to use the online GED Social Studies study notes and materials. This will help you pass the GED quickly and with ease.

The key differences are:

The HiSET has an additional “Writing” section compared to the GED.
HiSET test has separate Reading and Writing sections for Language Arts, while the GED combines them.
The HiSET has a longer total testing time of 9 hours compared to 7.5 hours for the GED.

What Are the Costs of the GED and HiSET Exams?

When comparing the costs of GED tests and HiSET in each state, the prices vary depending on the state and the format of the test (computer-based or paper-based).

GED Test Costs per State

This table provides a detailed breakdown of the costs for the GED exams in different states, specifying the prices for both in-person testing at a test center and online testing, along with information on residency requirements.

State/Territory	Cost per Subtest at Test Center	Cost per Subtest Online	Residency Required?
Alabama	$36	$36	No
Alaska	$36	$36	No
Arizona	$41	$41	No
Arkansas	$4	$36	Yes
California	$41	$41	Yes
Colorado	$43.5	$43.5	No
Connecticut	Free, $13 registration fee	Free, $13 registration fee	Yes
Delaware	$36	$36	Yes
District of Columbia	$39.75	$36	Yes
Florida	$32	–	No
Georgia	$46	$46	No
Hawaii	$37.50	–	No
Idaho	$36	$36	No
Illinois	Free, $36 regular fee	Free, $36 regular fee	Yes
Indiana	$36	$36	Yes
Iowa	No GED, HiSET instead	–	No
Kansas	$39	$39	No
Kentucky	$36	$36	Yes
Louisiana	$36	$36	No
Maryland	$36, first-time testers: $11.25	$36, first-time testers: $11.25	Yes
Massachusetts	$36 (Now Free)	–	Yes
Michigan	$43.50	$43.50	No
Minnesota	$36	$36	No
Mississippi	$36	$36	No
Missouri	$33 + yearly $10 fee	$36	–
New Mexico	$26	$26	No
North Carolina	$26	$26	No
North Dakota	$36	$36	No
Northern Mariana Islands	$30	$30	–
Ohio	$36	$36	No
Oklahoma	$41	$41	No
Oregon	$46	$46	No
Pennsylvania	$36	$36	No
Rhode Island	$30	$30	–
South Carolina	$37.50	$37.50	–
South Dakota	$50	$50	–
Texas	$36.25	$42.25	–
Utah	$36	$36	–
Vermont	$36	$36	–
Virginia	$36	$36	–
Washington	$36	$36	–
Wisconsin	$39.75	$39.75	–
Wyoming	$26	–	–

HiSET Test Costs per State

Based on the provided sources, the states that offer the HiSET exam for high school equivalency testing are as follows:

California ($100 – $140)
Colorado (on-computer: $141.25, on-paper: $162.50)
Georgia (on-computer: $133.75; on-paper: $181.25)
Illinois (on-computer: $93.75; on-paper: $115)
Indiana ($105)
Iowa ($53.25)
Louisiana (on-computer: $83.75; on-paper: $95)
Maine (free for state residents)
Massachusetts (on-computer: $103.75; on-paper: $125)
Michigan (on-computer: $118.75; on-paper: $123)
Mississippi (on-computer: $88.75; on-paper: $110)
Missouri (on-computer: $98.75; on-paper: $120; HiSET At Home: $151.25)
Montana (on-computer: $78.75; on-paper: $100)
Nevada (on-computer: $78.75; on-paper: $100)
New Hampshire ($125)
New Jersey (on-computer: $104.25; on-paper: $125)
New Mexico (on-computer: $53.75; on-paper: $75)
North Carolina (on-computer: $53.75; on-paper: $75)
Ohio (on-computer: $93.75; on-paper: $115)
Oklahoma (on-computer: $91.25; on-paper: $112.50)
Pennsylvania (on-computer: $93.75; on-paper: $115)
Tennessee (on-computer: $78.75; on-paper: $100)
West Virginia (on-computer: Free)
Wyoming (on-computer: $53.75; on-paper: $75).

GED and HiSET Testing Locations

The availability and format of GED and HiSET tests vary by state. While the GED is a fully computerized four-test exam, the HiSET offers a five-test format in both paper-based and computerized versions.

States Offering GED Test

The states offering GED exams include:

To pass the GED test, you will need to prepare well. Online GED study materials can be accessed online from any state where you register to take your GED test. These materials are readily available on our website, offering a comprehensive range of study resources (exact practice questions with well-explained answers) for all four GED subjects.

States Offering the HiSET Test

The HiSET exam is offered in 23 states across the United States. Some of the states where you can take the HiSET exam include

California
Colorado
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Louisiana
Maine
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
West Virginia
Wyoming

Each state has its own specific requirements and policies for taking the exam, so it’s essential to review the guidelines for the state or policy where you plan to take the HiSET test

States Offering Both GED and HiSET

The following states offer both the GED and HiSET exams:

California
Colorado
Illinois
Massachusetts
Michigan
Missouri
New Jersey
New Mexico
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
Texas
Wyoming

States That Do Not Offer Online GED Testing

GED tests can be taken online in most states that offer them. The HiSET can be taken in a paper-based format in some states, while the GED is only available in a computer-based format

According to the information provided, the following states do not offer online GED testing:

Online GED testing is not currently offered in New York State. Residents of New York must take the GED exam in person at a testing center.

Florida has suspended online GED testing as of January 10, 2024.
Hawaii does not offer online GED testing.
West Virginia does not offer online GED testing.
Wyoming does not offer online GED testing.
Massachusetts does not offer online GED testing.
Iowa, Maine, and Tennessee offer the HiSET exam instead of the GED test, and some students are not able to schedule the HiSET at home.
New Hampshire does not offer the GED test or online testing.

Whether you plan to take the GED online or at a testing center, Prepsaret has got you covered. You can access our online GED study materials and practice questions with an affordable package from anywhere.

What Are Passing Scores for the HiSET vs GED?

The passing scores for the HiSET and GED exams vary slightly.

HiSET Test Passing Score

The HISET test performance levels are directly associated with the reported values, where performance on each HISET subtest is primarily measured by the number of questions answered.

To pass each individual HISET subject test, a scaled score of at least 8 out of 20 is required, and an overall score of at least 45 across all five subject tests is necessary for passing the HISET exam. Each state sets its own passing scores for the HiSET. The minimum accepted score on the writing test’s essay section is 2 out of 6 points.

GED Test Passing Score and Performance Levels

In 2016, the GED test underwent revisions to its performance levels and cut scores. Here’s a breakdown of the updated scoring system:

Not Passing: If you score less than 145 points on one or more of the four GED® test subjects (Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies), you will not pass that particular subject test. However, you are allowed to retake only the specific subject test(s) you did not pass.
Passing Score: A score ranging between 145 and 164 points on a GED test subject indicates a passing score and signifies that you have attained high school equivalency. It’s important to note that points earned in one test subject do not transfer to the other subjects. You must achieve a passing score on each of the four test subjects to earn your GED.
College Ready: A score between 165 and 174 points on a GED® test subject indicates that you are ready for college-level courses. Achieving a College Ready score suggests that you may not need placement testing or remediation before commencing a college program.
College Ready + Credit: A score of 175 points or higher on a GED® test subject denotes mastery of several skills typically taught in college classes. Depending on the school’s policies, this achievement may result in the potential to earn a few college credits. By earning a College Ready + Credit score, you can save both time and money during your college education.

What Are the GED and HISET Retesting Policies?

GED Retesting Policies and Costs

The GED retesting policies allow candidates to retake GED exams without a waiting period in many cases, enabling them to retake the test multiple times. Initially, candidates can retake the test twice without a waiting period, totaling three testing attempts.

If you do not pass the GED exam on their first attempt, you are eligible for two retests at a reduced fee within a 12-month period following their unsuccessful test.

After the third attempt, a 60-day waiting period is required before retaking the test. However, specific states like Connecticut, Maryland, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and others have varying waiting periods and restrictions on the number of test attempts per year.

The cost for a GED retest is $80 per subject, with a retest fee of $80 as well. Candidates must pass the GED Ready practice test with a minimum score of 145 before scheduling the GED test. Additionally, after three attempts in a subject, a 60-day waiting period is imposed before retesting in the same subject.

Approval is needed for additional retests, with a maximum of two retests per year. Candidates automatically receive one free electronic diploma and transcript upon passing the GED test, with the option to request a printed diploma for a fee.

With Prepsaret’s online GED test prep notes and practice questions, the GED test becomes easy. Our resources are designed to simplify GED preparation, ensuring you achieve a good score on the actual test, giving you zero chances of needing to retest.

Key Points about HiSET Retesting Policies

You can retake a HiSET subtest a maximum of three times per calendar year. This includes the initial test and two retakes.
If you retake a subtest in the same format within 12 months of your original purchase date, there are no additional ETS test fees. However, local test center fees may still apply.
After 12 months, you will have to pay the full ETS test fee again plus any applicable state or test center fees.
All retests must be in the same format (computer-based or paper) as your initial test. You cannot switch formats for free.
Retake policies vary slightly by state. Some states may have additional requirements like waiting periods before retaking a subtest.
To retake a subtest, you must log into your myHiSET account and follow the instructions to schedule a retest appointment.
Retake fees are typically around $10-20 per subtest, but the total cost depends on your state’s policies. For example, in Missouri the retest fee is $7 per subtest plus a $10 annual state fees.

How Long Does It Take to Get a GED or HiSET?

GED Process Timeline

Scheduling the GED Exam: The GED exam typically takes around 7 hours to complete, covering four subject areas: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies
Preparation and Exam Taking: Preparation for the GED test is crucial, and you are advised to study online GED prep materials, take practice tests, and consider enrolling in GED preparation courses to improve their chances of success. Get your GED fast with help of GED prep resources online.
Transcript and Certificate: After taking the GED exam, scores are typically available within a few days or weeks, and if an individual passes, they will be awarded a high school equivalency certificate, usually obtained by contacting the testing center where the test was taken. Visit the GED website (GED.com) and follow the instructions provided.

HiSET Process Timeline

Scheduling the HiSET Exam: The HiSET exam, administered by individual states or territories, covers five subject areas and takes approximately 7 hours to complete
Preparation and Exam Taking: Similar to the GED, people preparing for the HiSET exam are advised to study the subject areas, take practice tests, and consider enrolling in HiSET preparation courses to increase their chances of success
Transcript and Certificate: After taking the HiSET exam, scores are typically available within a few days or weeks, and if an individual passes, they will be awarded a high school equivalency certificate, usually obtained by contacting the testing center where the test was taken. If you tested in Kentucky, visit the Kentucky Adult Education website to request your transcript and paper copy of your diploma.

Which Is Harder, the GED or HiSET?

When comparing the difficulty between the GED and HiSET tests, it is important to consider various factors.

In terms of pass rates, almost three-quarters of the students who take and complete the GED exam passed it in 2016, compared to less than 70 percent in 2012 under the old GED system.

According to the data, the GED passing rates have shown fluctuations over the years, with rates ranging from 59% to 80%. The HiSET exam is gaining popularity as an alternative to the GED in many states.

This difference in scoring scales can also indicate variations in the difficulty level between the two exams. However, the difficulty of each test can vary depending on the test taker’s background, level of preparedness, and the specific content of the exams.

Not familiarizing yourself with the test format can make the GED test more challenging. However, with online GED test prep notes and practice questions from Prepsaret, the GED test becomes manageable. Their resources are designed to simplify GED preparation, ensuring you achieve a good score on the actual test.

How Do GED and HiSET Classes Work?

You don’t have to attend classes as you did in high school. Test prep courses are available online and can be a valuable resource for many students. These study lessons and free practice tests explain how to prepare for each subtest and what to expect on each subtest.

GED and HiSET classes are designed to help students prepare for the exam. Prep courses for each exam have a few minor differences but are very similar overall. It is optional to take these classes to take the exam.

Many students opt for prep courses to increase their chances of success on the exam. These classes provide students with the opportunity to review the material that will be covered on the exam and to receive guidance and support from experienced instructors.

This can be particularly beneficial for people who have been out of school for a long time or need additional help to succeed on the exam.

The difficulty of obtaining a high school equivalency certificate will depend on how prepared you are and your ability to demonstrate your knowledge and skills on the exam.

Free GED classes are available online, offering preparation for the GED® or HiSET® tests, focusing on basic math skills, specific math knowledge, and other subjects tested in the exams.

These free classes provide quizzes at the end of each lesson to help students practice and gauge their understanding of the material, aiding in their preparation for the GED or HiSET tests.

Is There a Difference in the Diploma Awarded?

There is no significant difference between the diploma or credential awarded for passing the GED or HiSET exams. Both the GED and HiSET lead to the award of a high school equivalency diploma or credential that is recognized as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma.

The key points are:

Both the GED and HiSET are high school equivalency exams that assess the same core academic skills and knowledge as a traditional high school education.
Passing either the GED or HiSET exam results in the award of a state-issued high school equivalency diploma or credential that is accepted by employers, colleges, and universities in the same way as a regular high school diploma.
Employers, colleges, and other institutions generally view the GED and HiSET diplomas/credentials as equivalent and do not differentiate between them.

Similarities Between the HiSET and GED

The GED and HiSET share several key similarities:

High School Equivalency Credential: Both the GED and HiSET programs are widely recognized and accepted by colleges, universities, employers, and the military as equivalent to high school diplomas.
Test Preparation Resources: Both the GED and HiSET programs provide test-takers with a range of resources to help them prepare for the exams, such as study guides, practice tests, and access to adult education programs or classes.
Eligibility Criteria: While specific eligibility requirements can vary by state, both the GED and HiSET typically have similar eligibility criteria, requiring test-takers to be at least 16 or 18 years old (depending on the state), not be enrolled in high school, and not have completed high school.
Cost: The cost of taking the HiSET and GED exams varies by state and testing center, with both programs often offering financial assistance or fee waivers for eligible people to help cover the cost.
Recognition: Both the HiSET and GED credentials are recognized and accepted by educational institutions and employers across the United States and, in some cases, internationally.
Retesting: Test-takers who do not pass one or more subject areas on both the HiSET and GED exams are generally allowed to retake those sections, although specific retake policies may vary by state.
Flexible Test Formats: The HiSET is available in both paper-and-pencil and computer-based formats, while the GED is primarily offered in a computer-based format. Both HiSET and GED are available in English and Spanish.

Where Can I Find GED or HiSET Study Materials?

When preparing for your HiSET or GED tests, you need to seek available study materials online. Prepsaret is one of the websites which offers affordable online GED study resources including study and preparation notes and free practice tests for each subject.

Here are some of the are comprehensive study materials through the following links:

GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Resource: This resource provides a detailed review of the GED Reasoning Through Language Arts test, covering topics such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing.
GED Social Studies: This resource offers a thorough review of the GED Social Studies test, covering topics such as civics, government, US history, economics, geography, and world history.
GED Math: This resource provides a detailed review of the GED Math test, covering topics such as quantitative reasoning, arithmetic, and algebraic problem-solving.
GED Science Prep Materials: This resource provides a thorough review of the HiSET Science test, covering topics such as life science, physical science, and chemical science.

How Is a GED and HiSET Different From a High School Diploma?

The key differences between a GED/HiSET and a high school diploma are:

A high school diploma signifies that the student has attended and successfully completed all required courses in a traditional classroom setting over 4 years.

In contrast, the GED and HiSET are high school equivalency credentials awarded to people who pass a series of exams designed to assess whether they have the knowledge and skills typically associated with a high school education, but without the 4-year program.

The GED and HiSET can be obtained by passing a 7-hour test, which for most people requires less than a year of preparation. In most states, you can take the GED or HiSET tests any time after age 16.

While the GED and HiSET cover similar subject areas as a high school curriculum (language arts, math, social studies, science), they do not provide the same breadth of coursework and experiences that a traditional high school diploma offers.

Statistics show that high school diploma holders are better prepared for college and score higher on placement exams. Less than 5% of GED holders will actually receive a bachelor’s degree, compared to 77% of GED holders not continuing past the first semester of college.

Despite the differences in the path to obtaining them, most colleges and employers view the GED or HiSET and a high school diploma as equivalent. Nearly 100% of U.S. schools, including community colleges, private secondary or technical institutes, and universities, accept the GED.

Coupling your GED with a strong ACT or SAT score can further improve your chances of getting accepted into a top school. Alternatively, you can bypass other standardized tests with a GED College-Ready score, awarded to those who earn a high score on their GED tests.

Additionally, the GED can be used to apply for jobs, as many employers view the two achievements equally. In fact, GED graduates can often earn around $8,500 more annually than those without a GED or diploma.

Are There Any Other High School Diploma Alternatives?

In addition to the General Educational Development (GED) and High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), there are several other alternatives for individuals seeking to obtain a high school equivalency credential.

These options include:

Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC): The TASC is another high school equivalency exam similar to the GED and HiSET. It assesses an individual’s knowledge and skills equivalent to those of a high school graduate. The TASC exam, administered by Data Recognition Corporation, covers five core subjects and is available in both paper and computer-based formats.
Adult High School Completion Programs: Adult High School Completion Programs offer participants the opportunity to earn their high school diplomas by completing necessary coursework. These programs are beneficial for individuals who prefer a structured learning environment and wish to delve into different subjects in-depth.
International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE): The IGCSE is a globally recognized qualification offered by Cambridge Assessment International Education.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: The IB Diploma is a highly regarded academic qualification that colleges and universities worldwide recognize.
General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level: The GCE Advanced Level is a qualification offered by schools and colleges in the United Kingdom and is recognized by many institutions worldwide.
General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE): The GCSE is a qualification offered by schools and colleges in the United Kingdom and is recognized by many institutions worldwide.

Approximately 43% of those who obtain their GED enroll in postsecondary programs, highlighting the significance of high school equivalency credentials in advancing educational and career opportunities. Increase your chances of passing your GED by making use of online GED study guides.

HiSET vs. GED: Which Is Best for Your Career?

To determine the best option between HiSET and GED for your career, several factors come into play, including the career you aim to pursue, cost considerations, pass rates availability in your state, and eligibility requirements for taking the test.

The current job market is challenging, but it’s still possible to build a successful career without a high school diploma. However, having a high school diploma or equivalency certificate significantly increases your prospects for career advancement.

Obtaining a high school equivalency certificate can serve as a crucial stepping stone for making a career change. Both HiSET and GED offer high school equivalency exams that can open doors to various opportunities.

The choice between the two depends on your specific career goals, financial situation, test availability in your state, and meeting the eligibility criteria for each exam. When deciding between HiSET and GED, it’s essential to consider the career path you intend to follow.

Each exam may be preferred by different institutions or employers, so aligning your choice with your desired career can be advantageous. The overall GED pass rate can improve significantly if test-takers make use of available online GED study materials. If you want to pursue your career, make sure you first pass your GED with a higher score.

FAQs

Is the HiSET Harder Than the GED?

The HiSET and GED are generally considered to be of similar difficulty, with the HiSET math section potentially being slightly easier than the GED math. However, the difficulty of each test ultimately depends on the individual test taker’s strengths and weaknesses.

So in summary, while the HiSET and GED are very similar in difficulty, the HiSET may have a slight edge in terms of total testing time, scoring system, and calculator usage. But both tests are challenging and require thorough preparation to pass.

Not taking the time to get used to the test format can actually make the GED test harder. However, with online GED test prep notes and practice questions, the GED test doesn’t have to be hard. Their resources are designed to make GED preparation easier and more effective, helping you get a good score on the actual test.

What States Recognize the HiSET?

The HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) is recognized by several states in the United States as a valid high school equivalency credential. As of 2024, the HiSET exam is offered in various states and jurisdictions including California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2015, a total of 540,535 individuals took the HiSET test, with 47,329 completing the test and 27,318 passing.

While the specific states that recognize the HiSET are not explicitly listed in the provided search results, it can be inferred that the test is recognized by states that offer it as an option for high school equivalency.

What Happens When You Pass the HiSET?

Passing the HiSET demonstrates an equivalent level of knowledge to a high school graduate. Here are the key outcomes of passing the HiSET:

Credential Attainment: Passing the HiSET earns you a high school equivalency credential, which is crucial for pursuing further education and career opportunities.
Employment Eligibility: The HiSET can be a terminal credential for certain job applicants, especially in fields like the U.S. military or law enforcement agencies, where a high school diploma is required.
Access to Federal Programs: HiSET passers become eligible for federal programs intended for high school graduates, such as loans or grants.
Postsecondary Education: Passing the HiSET may qualify you for acceptance into postsecondary degree programs, subject to meeting other admission criteria like SAT scores.

Passing the HiSET is a significant achievement that not only validates your academic skills but also opens doors to further educational and career opportunities. Utilize online GED study materials to pass your GED with ease.

What Is the Difference Between a HiSET and a GED in Massachusetts?

The difference between a HiSET and a GED in Massachusetts lies in the test structure and format. The HiSET has five test sections, including reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, whereas the GED has four sections.

Additionally, the HiSET offers both paper and computer-based options, while the GED is only available in a computer format in Massachusetts. The HiSET exam in Massachusetts is recognized by the state and is accepted for high school equivalency purposes.

Does the Military Accept HiSET?

The U.S. military generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent for enlistment, with some branches accepting a G.E.D. but imposing additional requirements like official transcripts or higher ASVAB scores.

Not all branches accept G.E.D. applicants, with the U.S. Marine Corps being one that does not. For example, the Air Force limits G.E.D. recruits to 5%. G.E.D. holders are often considered Tier 2 recruits, while high school diploma holders are Tier 1.

The HiSET, similar to the G.E.D., provides a high school equivalency credential, but its acceptance in the military may vary based on individual branch policies

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