Is the HiSET Available in Alaska? No. The HiSET exam is not available in Alaska. The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development recognizes only the GED as the official high school equivalency test.
The credential earned is called the State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination, issued by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development and signed by the Commissioner of Labor.
Alaska has consistently used the GED as its sole high school equivalency pathway for adults. The state’s program — Alaska Adult Education (AAE) — is administered through the DOLWD Division of Employment and Training Services (DETS) and coordinated by ABE/GED State Director Windy Swearingin.
Programs are delivered through regional providers across all parts of the state, from Anchorage to rural communities like Kotzebue, Nome, and Bethel.
Over 20 million Americans have earned their GED credential. Notable GED holders include entrepreneurs, politicians, entertainers, and military leaders — including Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas, actor Christian Slater, musician David Bowie, and Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton. The credential opens real doors regardless of your background or career goals.
Which States Do Still Offer HiSET?
Understanding the HiSET states landscape helps clarify why Alaska uses GED exclusively:
| State | Exam Availability |
| Alaska | GED only — HiSET not available |
| Massachusetts | HiSET only — GED not offered |
| Maine | HiSET is primary exam |
| New Hampshire | HiSET available |
| Iowa | HiSET available |
| Wyoming | HiSET available |
| California | Both GED and HiSET available (separate programs) |
| Texas, Florida, Ohio | GED only — like Alaska |
Alaska GED Overview
The GED (General Educational Development) test is a four-subject high school equivalency exam developed by GED Testing Service LLC and administered in Alaska under the authority of the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
It assesses academic skills equivalent to those expected of a high school graduate, with emphasis on critical thinking and real-world application.
Alaska GED At-a-Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Official name of credential | State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination |
| Issued by | Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development — signed by Commissioner of Labor |
| Administered by | Alaska Adult Education (AAE), DOLWD-DETS Division |
| State GED Director | Windy Swearingin, ABE/GED State Director | (907) 465-8714 |
| Number of subjects | 4 |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 |
| Total test time | Approximately 7 hours across all 4 subjects |
| Score availability | Same day, within 3 hours of completing a subject |
| Cost per subject | $36 (in-person and online same price) |
| Total cost (all 4, first attempt) | $144 — but Alaska may pay for your first test in each subject |
| Languages available | English and Spanish; you may combine both languages for your credential |
| Residency requirement | None — no Alaska residency required |
Free GED Testing in Alaska
| Alaska State-Funded Free GED Testing
The State of Alaska will pay for your FIRST GED test in each subject while state funding lasts. This means your first attempt at all four GED subjects could cost you nothing. This benefit applies at both test centers and for online testing. Terms and conditions apply — verify current availability at ged.com when you register. Source: Alaska GED policy, ged.com/policies/alaska.html |
This makes Alaska one of the most financially accessible states in the country for GED testing. Combined with Alaska’s free Adult Education prep programs, it is possible to earn your State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination at zero out-of-pocket cost for many residents.
Free GED Prep Classes in Alaska
Through Alaska Adult Education (AAE) regional programs, free GED preparation classes are available across the state. These are funded through federal WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) Title II grants and state funding. You are not required to attend classes before testing, but preparation significantly improves pass rates.
- Alaska Literacy Program — Anchorage & Mat-Su Regional (covers Anchorage and Palmer areas): 1345 Rudakof Circle, Suite 104, Anchorage, AK 99508 | (907) 337-1981 | Test Prep Services Manager: Rebekah Potter
- Alaska Technical Center — Kotzebue Regional AAE: 843 4th Street, Kotzebue, AK 99752 | (907) 442-1500 | Program Coordinator: China Kantner
- Kawerak, Inc. — Nome Regional AAE: P.O. Box 948, Nome, AK 99762 | (907) 434-1258 | [email protected]
- Literacy Council of Alaska — Fairbanks Regional AAE: 724 27th Ave, Suite 2, Fairbanks, AK 99701 | (907) 456-6212 | [email protected]
- Southeast Regional Resource Center (SERRC) — Southeast, Bethel, Bristol Bay/Aleutian, and North Slope Regional AAE: 210 Ferry Way, Suite 200, Juneau, AK 99801 | (907) 433-7422 | [email protected]
- UAA Kachemak Bay Campus — Kenai Peninsula (Homer): 533 East Pioneer Avenue, Homer, AK 99603 | (907) 235-1602
- UAA Kenai River Campus — Kenai Peninsula (Soldotna): 156 College Drive, Soldotna, AK 99669 | (907) 262-0327
- UAA Kodiak Campus — Kodiak Regional AAE: 117 Benny Benson Drive, Kodiak, AK 99615 | (907) 486-1243
- UAA Prince William Sound Campus — Valdez: P.O. Box 97, Valdez, AK 99686 | (907) 834-1671
For the most current directory: jobs.alaska.gov/aae/aae-directory.html — last updated March 17, 2026.
Alaska GED Eligibility Requirements (2026)
Eligibility rules come directly from ged.com/policies/alaska.html and the official Alaska Adult Education program at jobs.alaska.gov/aae/ged.htm.
Standard Age Requirements: Adults 18 and Older
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must not currently be enrolled in high school
- Must not have previously received a high school equivalency certification in another state
- No Alaska residency requirement — you do not need to live in Alaska to test here
- No prep class required before testing — but classes are strongly recommended and free
- For in-person testing: no GED Ready practice test required
- For online testing: GED Ready practice test REQUIRED with a green (Likely to Pass) score before scheduling
Students Age 16 or 17 — Additional Requirements
Students aged 16 or 17 may test in Alaska by presenting ALL of the following to an Alaska Adult Education Regional Program or GED testing site before being authorized:
- A withdrawal slip from the last school attended in Alaska — OR a legal emancipation document
- Written permission from a parent or guardian (signed)
- A current government-issued photo ID
- Additionally, the Alaska Adult Education Regional Program or the GED testing site must determine the 16 or 17-year-old eligible before testing can proceed.
For online testing specifically: a parent or guardian must be physically present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize recording. If the parent or guardian is absent, the exam session will be revoked.
Alaska GED Cost: 2026 Fee Guide
Alaska’s GED costs are among the most affordable in the country, and the state’s free first-attempt program can eliminate costs entirely for qualifying test-takers.
Standard Fee Breakdown
| Fee Item | Amount |
| Per GED subject — In-Person (Test Center) | $36.00 |
| Per GED subject — Online (Remote Proctored) | $36.00 |
| All 4 subjects (first attempt, no state funding) | $144.00 |
| All 4 subjects (with Alaska state funding — first attempt) | $0.00 (while funding lasts) |
| Payment method | Debit or credit card when scheduling at GED.com |
Retake Fees
| Rule | Details |
| In-Person 1st discounted retake | GED Testing Service waives its $26 fee; Alaska charges a $10 test center fee = $10 total |
| In-Person full retake (after discounted retake) | $36 per subject; 1:1 discounted offer repeats |
| Online retake | $36 per subject — no discounted retake for online proctored exams |
| In-Person retake wait period | No wait for first 2 retakes; 60-day wait after 3rd attempt on same subject |
| Online retake wait period | One retake before 60-day wait; after 2nd online attempt on a subject, must wait 60 days |
| Alaska free first attempt | Also applies to first attempt even if retaking — confirm current terms at ged.com |
| Important: The State of Alaska Will Pay for Your First GED Test in Each Subject
While funding lasts, the State of Alaska covers the cost of your first attempt at each of the 4 GED subjects — a potential saving of $144. This benefit applies to both in-person and online testing. To access this benefit: register and schedule through GED.com; the discount is applied automatically. View terms and conditions: ged.com/alaska-free-ged-testing-terms.html Contact AAE for current funding status: [email protected] | (907) 465-4685 |
Alaska GED Subjects, Format and Test Length
The Alaska GED consists of four subject tests. You can take them in any order and on separate days. Total testing time is approximately 7 hours but does not have to be completed in one sitting.
GED Subject Overview
| Subject | Time Limit | Content and Format |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 min (inc. 10-min break) | Reading comprehension, grammar, sentence structure; 45-min Extended Response essay |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Basic math, algebra, geometry, data/graphs; on-screen calculator Part 2; formula sheet provided |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life, physical, earth/space science; data interpretation from charts, graphs, tables |
| Social Studies | 90 minutes | U.S. history, civics, economics, geography; analysis of maps, charts, primary sources |
Question Types on the Alaska GED
- The GED uses multiple question formats beyond standard multiple choice:
- Multiple choice — most common; select the correct answer from 4 options
- Drag-and-drop — move items into correct sequences, categories, or map locations
- Fill-in-the-blank / grid-in — type a numeric answer; common in math
- Short answer — write a brief response; used in Science
- Extended Response (essay) — 45-minute argumentative essay using provided source texts; only in RLA
- Hot spot — click on a specific location on an image, diagram, or map
Alaska GED Passing Score and Score Tiers
| Score Range | What It Means |
| Below Passing | Below 145 — must retake that subject; score report shows specific areas to improve |
| Passing (HSE Diploma eligible) | 145 to 164 — earns your State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination |
| GED College Ready | 165 to 174 — enter college-level courses without placement testing at participating institutions |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175 to 200 — may earn college credit at participating Alaska colleges and universities |
| Score availability | Same day, within approximately 3 hours of completing each subject |
Alaska GED Online: Taking the Test From Home
Yes, Alaska allows fully online GED testing through the remote-proctored GED system. This is particularly valuable for Alaska residents in rural or remote areas where the nearest test center may be hundreds of miles away.
Online GED Requirements in Alaska
| Requirement | Details |
| GED Ready practice test | REQUIRED — must score green (Likely to Pass) before scheduling each online subject exam |
| Computer | Windows or Mac desktop/laptop — tablets, phones, Chromebooks not accepted |
| Webcam | Required — live proctor monitors via camera throughout the session |
| Internet | A stable broadband connection is required throughout the exam |
| Space | Quiet, private room with no other people present |
| Under-18 students | Parent or guardian must be physically present at pre-test check-in; absence = session revoked |
| Multiple subjects | Must schedule one at a time; cannot take all subjects in one day online |
Online vs. In-Person: What Alaska Students Should Know
| Feature | In-Person (Test Center) | Online (Remote Proctored) |
| GED Ready practice test | Not required (recommended) | REQUIRED — green score before scheduling |
| Cost per subject | $36 | $36 (same) |
| State free first attempt | Yes (while funding lasts) | Yes (while funding lasts) |
| Discounted retake | Yes — 1st retake costs $10 | No — full $36 each time |
| Retake wait period | None for first 2 retakes | 60-day wait after 2nd attempt |
| All subjects are the same day | Possible if test center hours allow | No — schedule separately, one at a time |
| Best for Alaska residents | Near a test center; want discounted retakes | Rural/remote areas; limited transportation |
For Alaska’s rural and remote communities — including villages in Western Alaska, the Interior, and Southeast — online testing can be transformative. The GED Ready practice test requirement (typically $6-8 per subject) ensures you are genuinely prepared before taking the real exam.
How to Get Your GED in Alaska: Step-by-Step
All GED registration is done online at GED.com — walk-in registration at test centers is not available. Here is the complete official process:
- Create a free account at GED.com; use your legal name exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID — this name will appear on your Alaska High School Equivalency Diploma
- Select Alaska as your testing state; verify you meet eligibility (18+ or 16/17 with required documentation)
- If you are 16 or 17: gather your withdrawal slip or emancipation document AND signed parental consent; present these to an Alaska Adult Education Regional Program or authorized test site before scheduling
- Contact your nearest free Alaska Adult Education program for free GED prep classes — preparation dramatically improves first-attempt pass rates
- If testing online: take the GED Ready practice test ($6-8 per subject) for each subject you plan to test; must score green before scheduling
- Schedule your first subject test at GED.com; check whether Alaska’s free first-attempt funding is currently available when you register
- Pay with a debit or credit card; if you lack a bank card, register for a free American Express Bluebird card at bluebird.com and load cash at any Walmart
- Take your tests one at a time or all together (in-person); receive scores within approximately 3 hours of completing each subject
- After passing all four subjects, download your free electronic diploma and transcript immediately from the email sent to your GED.com account
| Pro Tip: Contact Your Regional AAE Program First
Before registering at GED.com, call or email your nearest Alaska Adult Education Regional Program. They can confirm current funding availability for the free first attempt, connect you with free prep classes, and guide you through documentation requirements if you are under 18. Find your nearest program at jobs.alaska.gov/aae/aae-directory.html. |
Alaska GED Transcripts and Diploma
The Alaska High School Equivalency Diploma is issued by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development and signed by the Commissioner of Labor — it is the legal counterpart to the Alaska High School Diploma. Here is everything you need to know about obtaining your documents.
What You Receive Automatically After Passing
- One free electronic diploma and one free electronic transcript are automatically sent via email to your GED.com account address after you pass all four GED subjects
- The PDFs use Blue Ribbon Security technology verified by GED Testing Service and Parchment LLC — each time the document is opened, its authenticity is confirmed
- Download immediately — links are available for a limited time only. Follow the instructions in the email carefully.
Diploma and Transcript Pricing
| Service | Cost / How to Access |
| Initial electronic diploma and transcript | FREE — automatically sent via email after passing all 4 subjects |
| Optional initial printed diploma | $10.00 + shipping and handling — order through GED.com |
| Duplicate electronic transcript | $18.00 — order through GED.com or Parchment |
| Duplicate printed diploma/transcript | $18.00 each + additional shipping — order through Parchment |
| For diplomas earned after 2014 | Order through your GED.com account: My Scores > Order Duplicates |
| For diplomas earned before 2014 | Order via GEDCredentialing through Parchment at GED.com under ‘Grads and Transcripts’ |
| Third-party verification (employers/colleges) | Institutions register for Parchment Receive (academic) or Third Party Ordering (non-academic) at parchment.com |
Key Contacts for Alaska GED Transcripts
| Contact | Details |
| Transcript request phone | (907) 465-4685 — Donna Collins, Education Associate |
| GED State Director | Windy Swearingin, ABE/GED State Director | (907) 465-8714 |
| [email protected] | |
| Mailing address | DOLWD-DETS Division, 1111 W. 8th Street, P.O. Box 115509, Juneau, AK 99811-5509 |
| Department of Corrections | Inmate verification form: stateofalaskaaae.formstack.com/forms/inmate_verification |
| Parchment support | parchmentsupport.force.com/GED/s/ |
Important note: Alaska High School Equivalency Diplomas and transcripts are issued using your full legal name as it appears in your GED.com profile. Ensure your name, address, and contact information are correct before passing your final subject test — mailed diplomas are sent to the address in your GED profile.
HiSET vs. GED vs. TASC
One of the most searched topics is the difference between GED, HiSET, and TASC. Here is the definitive comparison for Alaska residents and anyone considering their options nationally.
| Feature | GED | HiSET | TASC |
| Available in Alaska | YES | NO | NO (TASC discontinued) |
| Administered by | GED Testing Service LLC | PSI Services LLC (formerly ETS) | Data Recognition Corp. — discontinued 2022 |
| Number of subjects | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Math difficulty | Higher — heavy algebra and reasoning | Moderate | Moderate |
| Min. passing score | 145/200 per subject | 8/20 per subject | 500/800 per subject (when active) |
| Essay requirement | Yes — 45-min Extended Response | Yes — Writing essay | Yes — Writing essay |
| Calculator allowed? | Part 2 of Math only | No calc Part 1; allowed Part 2 | Part 2 only |
| Format | Computer-based | Computer + paper options | Computer-based |
| Online testing | Yes — GED OnVUE | Yes — HiSET @Home | N/A — discontinued |
| Score tiers | Pass / College Ready / College Ready + Credit | Pass only | Pass only |
| Cost (Alaska) | $36/subject = $144 total | N/A — not in AK | N/A — discontinued |
| National acceptance | Widely accepted | Accepted in HiSET states | Was accepted in the TASC states |
| Active in 2026 | YES | YES (~20 states) | NO — discontinued |
TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) was previously offered by Data Recognition Corporation as a third high school equivalency option alongside GED and HiSET. TASC was discontinued in 2022. Any states that previously used TASC have transitioned to either GED or HiSET.
HiSET vs. GED: Which Is Harder?
Many people ask this before choosing an exam. For Alaska residents, the answer is academic since HiSET is unavailable — but here is the honest assessment:
- GED Math is widely considered the hardest component of any HSE exam — it requires real algebraic reasoning, data interpretation, and function analysis
- HiSET covers 5 subjects vs. GED’s 4, spreading study time more broadly; each subject has a lower minimum passing threshold (8/20 vs. 145/200)
- GED offers College Ready score tiers that can earn college credit or bypass remedial courses — a unique advantage that HiSET does not have
- Both exams require a written essay component; GED’s Extended Response (45 minutes) is generally considered more demanding than the HiSET Writing essay
- Overall: roughly comparable difficulty; GED is more rigorous in math, while HiSET requires broader subject coverage
Is the HiSET Equivalent to a High School Diploma?
This question applies equally to the GED and HiSET, since both lead to a High School Equivalency credential. Here is the authoritative answer for both, with specific reference to Alaska:
| Yes — Both Are Legally Equivalent to a High School Diploma
In every state that offers them, both the GED and HiSET earn a state-issued credential that is the legal equivalent of a high school diploma. In Alaska specifically, the State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination carries the same legal weight as the State of Alaska High School Diploma issued to traditional graduates. It is accepted by all Alaska employers, all Alaska colleges and universities, all branches of the U.S. military, and all federal employment and training programs. |
| Accepted By | Status |
| Alaska employers | Yes — all employers in Alaska recognize the GED/HSE diploma |
| Community colleges (UAA, UAF, UAS campuses) | Yes — accepted for admission |
| University of Alaska System | Yes — accepted for undergraduate admission |
| U.S. Military (all branches) | Yes — all branches accept GED/HSE diploma |
| Federal government employment | Yes — all federal positions accepting an HS diploma accept an HSE diploma |
| FAFSA / Federal financial aid | Yes — opens eligibility for Pell Grants and student loans |
| Trade and apprenticeship programs | Yes — most accept GED/HSE diploma for enrollment |
| Department of Corrections programs | Yes — GED is widely recognized in post-release employment and training |
Online High School Diploma Programs for Alaska Residents
If you prefer completing coursework over taking a single comprehensive exam, accredited online high school diploma programs offer an alternative path to a diploma. This is not the same as a GED — it is an actual high school diploma earned through online study.
How Online Diploma Programs Work
- Complete online coursework across standard high school subjects (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, electives)
- Work at your own pace — typically 1-2 years, but can be faster
- Earn a high school diploma (not an equivalency credential) that is recognized by employers and most colleges
- Programs like Excel High School offer accredited online diplomas accessible to Alaska residents
- Cost varies — typically $400 to $2,000+, depending on the program and how many credits you need
GED vs. Online High School Diploma: Which Is Right for You?
| Criteria | GED | Online High School Diploma |
| Type of credential | High School Equivalency Diploma | Actual High School Diploma |
| Time to complete | Weeks to months | Typically 1-2+ years |
| Format | 4 comprehensive exams | Coursework and assignments |
| Cost (Alaska) | $0-$144 (state may fund first attempt) | $400-$2,000+ depending on program |
| Free prep available? | Yes — through AAE regional programs | Varies by program |
| College acceptance | Widely accepted | Widely accepted |
| Best for | Speed and minimum cost | Prefer learning over exams; need diploma specifically |
| Accreditation | State-issued (Alaska DOLWD) | Must verify program accreditation carefully |
| Caution: Verify Accreditation
Not all online diploma programs are legitimate. Before enrolling in any online high school diploma program, verify it is regionally or nationally accredited by a recognized accrediting body (e.g., AdvancED/Cognia, Middle States Association). Unaccredited diplomas are not accepted by employers, colleges, or the military. For most Alaska adults, the GED remains the fastest, lowest-cost, and most universally recognized path. |
How Difficult Is the GED?
Many people worry the GED is too hard after years away from school. The honest answer is: it is challenging but entirely achievable with focused preparation. Here is a subject-by-subject difficulty breakdown for Alaska test-takers.
| Subject | Relative Difficulty | Why / Key Challenge |
| Mathematical Reasoning | High — most commonly failed subject | Algebra, functions, data interpretation; Part 1 has no calculator |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts | Moderate | Reading comprehension is accessible; essay (45 min) requires practice |
| Science | Moderate | Less memorization than expected; graph/data reading is key skill |
| Social Studies | Low to Moderate | Document and map analysis; broad knowledge helpful but not required |
According to GED Testing Service data, the overall GED pass rate nationally is around 75-80% for students who use official preparation materials and take a practice test before scheduling. Students who attend adult education prep classes before testing have measurably higher first-attempt pass rates.
What Makes the GED Manageable
- You take each subject separately — you only need to pass one at a time
- There is no time limit on how long you take between subjects — pace yourself
- A formula sheet is provided on screen during the Math test — no need to memorize formulas
- The GED Ready practice test accurately predicts your readiness — take it before scheduling to avoid wasted exam fees
- Free Alaska Adult Education prep classes cover all subjects systematically
- You can retake any subject you do not pass — and the first two in-person retakes cost only $10 each in Alaska
How to Pass the Alaska GED Fast
GED.com states the average preparation time is 2 to 3 months. Focused, consistent students often pass individual subjects in 2 to 4 weeks. Here is an effective Alaska-specific study approach:
30-Day GED Alaska Study Blueprint
| Week | Focus and Activities |
| Week 1: Diagnose your starting point | Take free GED test previews at ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html for all 4 subjects. Identify your 1-2 weakest subjects. Enroll in your nearest free Alaska Adult Education prep class this week — do not wait. |
| Week 2: Math and RLA foundation | Dedicate 70% of study time to Mathematical Reasoning — it is the most commonly failed subject and has the highest impact. Focus on algebra, linear equations, and data graph reading. Begin daily 20-minute reading practice with informational texts for RLA. |
| Week 3: Full rotation and practice tests | Take one timed practice test per subject. Practice writing a full 45-minute essay for RLA under timed conditions. Fix weak areas identified in each practice test immediately. |
| Week 4: GED Ready and scheduling | Take the official GED Ready practice test ($6-8/subject) for your first target subject. Score green = schedule your real GED exam right away (Alaska may cover the cost). Score yellow = 1-2 more weeks of focused study before retesting on GED Ready. |
Subject-Specific Alaska GED Tips
- Mathematical Reasoning: A formula sheet is provided during the exam — learn how to use the formulas rather than memorizing them. Practice Part 1 (no calculator) every day for at least 15 minutes: basic arithmetic, fractions, percentages, and order of operations. Work through at least 25 word problems before testing.
- RLA Extended Response Essay: You must write a structured argumentative essay using evidence from two provided passages — 45 minutes total. Practice the 5-step process: (1) read both passages quickly, (2) identify the main argument of each, (3) outline your position in 2 minutes, (4) write a 4-paragraph essay, (5) proofread the last 5 minutes. Spelling, grammar, and organization all affect your score.
- Science and Social Studies: Both tests require interpreting charts, graphs, and maps far more than memorizing facts. Practice sitting with an unfamiliar graph or table, reading it carefully, and answering 3-4 questions about it. This single skill drives the majority of correct answers on both tests.
Alaska HiSET Alternative: FAQs
Can you get your GED online in Alaska?
Yes. Alaska allows fully online GED testing via the remote-proctored system. You need a Windows or Mac computer with a webcam, stable internet, and a quiet, private space. One critical requirement: you must first take and pass the GED Ready practice test (scoring green) for each subject before you can schedule that subject online. Online testing costs $36 per subject — the same as in-person. Alaska’s free first-attempt funding also applies to online testing while funding lasts. Note: online testing does not offer discounted retakes, and subjects must be scheduled one at a time.
Which is faster, HiSET or GED?
Both exams take roughly the same total testing time — approximately 7 to 8 hours across all subjects. Since Alaska does not offer HiSET, this comparison only matters if you are considering testing in another state. In practice, the GED can be faster to complete because it has 4 subjects versus HiSET’s 5, meaning fewer scheduling sessions. Both allow you to take subjects one at a time and only retake subjects you fail, making both highly flexible. For Alaska residents, the GED is your only option and the fastest viable path.
Is the HiSET equivalent to a high school diploma?
Yes. In states that offer it, the HiSET earns a state-issued High School Equivalency credential that is legally equivalent to a traditional high school diploma — accepted by employers, colleges, and the military. The same is true for Alaska’s GED credential. In Alaska specifically, passing the GED earns the State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination, which carries the same legal standing as the State of Alaska High School Diploma. HiSET is not available in Alaska, so for Alaska residents, the GED is the path to this legal equivalence.
What is the difference between GED, HiSET, and TASC?
All three are (or were) nationally recognized high school equivalency tests, but they differ in important ways. The GED (by GED Testing Service) has 4 subjects, is computer-based, includes College Ready score tiers, and is currently active in Alaska and most states. HiSET (by PSI Services) has 5 subjects, includes paper-based testing options, and is active in approximately 20 states — not including Alaska. TASC (by Data Recognition Corporation) had 5 subjects and was discontinued in 2022 — it is no longer available anywhere. Alaska only recognizes the GED. If you passed TASC in a previous state, contact the Alaska AAE office to confirm whether those scores can be transferred or if you need to retake tests.
How do I get my GED in Alaska?
Create a free account at GED.com and select Alaska as your testing state. If you are 16 or 17, obtain a withdrawal slip or emancipation document and signed parental consent, then present them to an Alaska Adult Education Regional Program before scheduling. Contact your nearest free AAE prep program (jobs.alaska.gov/aae/aae-directory.html) for free classes. Check whether Alaska’s free first-attempt funding is available when you register. For online testing, first pass the GED Ready practice test with a green score. Schedule and pay for each subject at $36 each (or $0 with state funding). After passing all 4 subjects, download your free electronic diploma and transcript from your GED.com account email immediately. Alaska AAE contact: [email protected] | (907) 465-8714.
How much does it cost to take the GED test in Alaska?
Alaska charges $36 per subject test, totaling $144 for all four subjects. However, the State of Alaska will pay for your first GED test in each subject while funding lasts — making it possible to take the entire exam for free. If you need to retake a subject in-person, the first discounted retake costs $10 (GED Testing Service waives $26 of the fee). Online retakes cost the full $36 each. Free GED prep classes are available statewide through Alaska Adult Education regional programs. Contact [email protected] or call (907) 465-8714 to confirm current free funding availability.
Can I do my GED fully online?
Yes. Both the GED exam itself and your prep materials can be completed fully online in Alaska. For the exam, you take each subject through the remote-proctored GED OnVUE system from your home or any quiet location with a computer and webcam. The prerequisite is passing the GED Ready practice test with a green score for each subject you want to test online. For preparation, free online resources include GED.com test previews, Khan Academy, the GED Mobile App, and library databases. Alaska Adult Education also offers online classes in some regions. The Alaska state free funding applies to online testing as well.
How difficult is it to pass the GED test?
With preparation, most motivated adults can pass the GED. National pass rates are around 75-80% for students who use official prep materials and take the GED Ready practice test before scheduling. The Math section is the most commonly failed subject due to its emphasis on algebra and data reasoning — but with 2-4 weeks of focused study, most people can reach passing level. The best predictor of success is your GED Ready score: green means you are likely to pass, yellow means more study is needed. Alaska’s free Adult Education prep classes and the state’s free first-attempt funding remove the two biggest barriers — preparation help and cost — making success very achievable for Alaska residents.
Alaska HiSET Alternative: Final Thoughts
If you came here looking for an Alaska HiSET alternative, you have the complete picture: the HiSET is not available in Alaska, and the GED is your path. The State of Alaska High School Diploma by Examination is a fully legitimate, state-issued credential that opens the same doors as a traditional diploma.
Alaska’s setup is genuinely favorable: the state may pay for your first attempt at each subject, free prep classes are available across the state through Alaska Adult Education regional programs, and online testing is available for residents in remote areas. There has never been a better time or a lower-cost opportunity to earn your credential in Alaska.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. Create your free GED account at GED.com and select Alaska 2. Find and contact your nearest free Alaska Adult Education program: jobs.alaska.gov/aae/aae-directory.html 3. Ask about Alaska’s free first-attempt funding: [email protected] | (907) 465-4685 4. Take free GED test previews: ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html 5. For online testing: take the GED Ready practice test first — score green before scheduling 6. Pass all 4 subjects and download your free electronic diploma immediately from your GED.com email
Alaska AAE/GED State Director: Windy Swearingin | (907) 465-8714 Transcript requests: Donna Collins | [email protected] | (907) 465-4685 GED Technical Support: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) |