Is the HiSET Available in Arizona? No. The HiSET exam is not available in Arizona. The official state-approved path to a high school equivalency diploma is through one of three Arizona HSE Diploma pathways, the most widely used being the GED Testing Pathway.
All three pathways are overseen by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) Adult Education Services.
Arizona does not recognize the HiSET as a qualifying exam for the Arizona High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma. If you were planning to take the HiSET, your path forward is the GED — or, depending on your situation, one of two other ADE-approved alternative pathways described in this guide.
The Arizona High School Equivalency Diploma (also called the AZ HSE Diploma) is awarded by the State of Arizona under Arizona Revised Statutes Section 15-702 and AZ Administrative Code R7-2-307.
It is important to note that while the credential is often called a GED, the GED is technically the name of the test company — the actual diploma is issued by the State of Arizona, not GED Testing Service.
Arizona’s Three HSE Diploma Pathways
A major difference between Arizona and most states is that Arizona offers three distinct pathways to earn an Arizona High School Equivalency Diploma, all approved by the Arizona State Board of Education. All three require passing the Arizona Civics Test.
| Feature | GED Testing Pathway | College Credit Pathway (CCP) | HSE PLUS Career Readiness |
| Administered by | Arizona Dept. of Education / GED.com | Arizona accredited public community college or state university | State-funded Adult Education programs (WIOA Title II) |
| Core requirement | Pass all 4 GED subject tests | Complete 25 specific college credits | Complete HSE PLUS Career Readiness program |
| Additional requirement | Pass Arizona Civics Test (70%) | Pass Arizona Civics Test (70%) | Pass Arizona Civics Test (70%) |
| Who it is best for | Most adults without a diploma | Adults who prefer college coursework | Adults enrolled in WIOA job training programs |
| Cost | $41/subject + $9 Civics Test | Community college tuition for 25 credits | Contact the state-funded AE program |
| Availability | Statewide + online | Arizona accredited colleges only | Must be enrolled in the WIOA Title II program |
| Can combine with GED scores? | N/A | No — credits cannot be mixed with GED scores | Contact the program for details |
This guide focuses primarily on the GED Testing Pathway since it is the most widely accessible option for Arizona residents. See the ADE website at azed.gov/adultedservices/high-school-equivalency for full details on all three pathways.
The Arizona Civics Test
| 2026 Update: Passing Score Raised
As of January 1, 2026, the passing score for the Arizona Civics Test has increased from 60/100 to 70/100. You must now correctly answer at least 70 out of 100 questions to pass. This change affects all three AZ HSE pathways. Source: Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov). |
Arizona is one of the very few states that mandates an additional civics test as a prerequisite for earning a high school equivalency diploma. This requirement is established by Arizona Revised Statutes Section 15-701.01 and applies to all students regardless of which HSE pathway they choose. Many Arizona GED candidates overlook this requirement until after passing their GED tests — plan for it from the start.
Arizona Civics Test: Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Number of questions | 100 multiple-choice questions |
| Passing score (as of Jan 1, 2026) | 70 out of 100 (70%) — up from 60% before 2026 |
| Based on | The Civics portion of the USCIS Naturalization Test |
| Language | English only — no Spanish version available |
| Time limit | Untimed — take as long as you need |
| Cost | $9.00 per attempt, scheduled through GED.com |
| Waiting period between attempts | None — retake as many times as needed |
| Where to take it | Online proctored OR at an authorized GED/Pearson VUE test center |
| When to take it | Any time during your GED testing experience, you do not need to pass the GED tests first |
| Exception for K-12 students | If you passed the AZ Civics Test while in high school (grade 8 or later), ask your former school to send an official transcript showing your passing score to ADE — you do not need to retake it |
| Free Arizona Civics Study Resources
Official 100-question list: Based on USCIS Naturalization civics questions — available free at uscis.gov Arizona Department of Education study guide: Visit azed.gov/adultedservices/arizona-civics-test Practice questions: Many free resources on Khan Academy and public library databases cover U.S. civics Registration: Schedule and pay the $9 fee at GED.com under your test-taker profile |
Arizona GED Eligibility Requirements
Arizona’s eligibility rules come directly from the official Arizona GED policy at ged.com and the Arizona Department of Education. Requirements differ by age.
Age Requirement: Adults 18 and Older
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must not have already received a high school diploma or HSE Diploma
- No residency requirement — you do not need to be an Arizona resident to test in Arizona
- No prep class required before testing — though classes are strongly recommended
- For in-person testing: no GED Ready practice test required
- For online testing: GED Ready practice test is REQUIRED — must score green (Likely to Pass) before scheduling
Students Age 16 or 17: Additional Requirements
Students aged 16 or 17 may test if both of the following are provided:
- Verification from the last school attended certifying formal withdrawal from high school (official withdrawal form)
- A signed, notarized, and dated statement of consent from a parent or guardian
These two documents, plus a current government-issued photo ID, must be presented to any Authorized Testing Location OR emailed to [email protected] before testing can be scheduled.
For online exams: a parent or guardian must be physically present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize recording — if the parent is absent, the exam session will be revoked.
Coconino Community College (and similar programs) additionally requires 16 and 17-year-old students to obtain a Withdrawal Form from their last enrolled school and a completed, notarized GED Parental Consent Form, both submitted in hard copy to the testing center.
Arizona GED Cost: 2026 Fee Guide
Arizona’s GED fees are set by the GED Testing Service and the Arizona Department of Education. Note that Arizona charges more per subject than most states — $41 per subject versus Alabama’s $36, for example, plus the required $9 Arizona Civics Test.
Standard Fee Breakdown
| Fee Item | Amount |
| Per GED subject — In-Person (Test Center) | $41.00 |
| Per GED subject — Online (Remote Proctored) | $41.00 |
| All 4 GED subjects (no retakes) | $164.00 |
| Arizona Civics Test (per attempt) | $9.00 |
| Full cost (4 GED subjects + Civics Test, first attempt) | $173.00 |
| Payment method | Debit or credit card online when scheduling at GED.com |
| No card? Alternative payment | American Express Bluebird prepaid card — register free at bluebird.com, add cash at any Walmart |
Retake Fees
| Retake Rule | Details |
| In-Person discounted retake (1st retake) | GED Testing Service waives its $26 fee; Arizona charges a $15 test center fee = $15 total for the first retake |
| In-Person full retake (after discounted retake) | $41 per subject resumes; the 1:1 discounted offer repeats |
| Online retake | $41 per subject — no discounted retakes for online proctored exams |
| In-Person retake wait period | No wait for first 2 retakes; 60-day wait after the 3rd attempt on any subject |
| Online retake wait period | One retake before a 60-day waiting period; after 2nd online attempt, must wait 60 days |
| Arizona Civics Test retake | $9 per attempt; no waiting period between attempts; take as many times as needed |
Free GED in Arizona: How to Minimize Costs
Several programs can significantly reduce or eliminate your GED costs:
- State-Funded Adult Education Programs: Arizona’s Adult Education network — funded through WIOA Title II — offers free GED prep classes at community colleges statewide. Contact your local adult education program at azed.gov/adultedservices for locations.
- Coconino Community College (Flagstaff/Page): Free GED prep classes for Coconino County residents ages 16+, with opportunities to have the GED exam fully funded. Classes accessible virtually via Zoom or in-person.
- Central Arizona College: Free HSE/GED classes at multiple campuses, including San Tan Valley, Apache Junction, Maricopa, Coolidge, Winkelman, and Ak-Chin Community Center.
- Rio Salado College Adult Education: Free GED test prep classes through the Maricopa County Community College District — one of Arizona’s largest adult education providers.
- WIOA Funding: Income-eligible adults enrolled in WIOA Title II programs may have GED exam fees covered. Contact your nearest adult education program for eligibility details.
Arizona GED Subjects, Format & Test Length
The Arizona GED consists of four subject tests plus the required Arizona Civics Test. The four GED subjects are the same national exam used in all GED states. Total GED testing time is approximately 7 hours, but you do not need to take all subjects in one day.
GED Subject Overview
| Subject | Time | Format & Content |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 min (includes 10-min break) | Reading comprehension, grammar, extended response essay (45 min) |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Basic math, geometry, algebra, functions; calculator in Part 2; formula sheet provided |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life, physical, earth/space science; heavy data interpretation from graphs/charts |
| Social Studies | 90 minutes | U.S. history, civics, economics, geography; map and document analysis |
| Arizona Civics Test (additional) | Untimed | 100 multiple-choice; U.S. government, history, rights; pass with 70+/100 |
GED Score Levels in Arizona
| Score Range | What It Means |
| Passing (HSE Diploma eligible) | 145 to 164 — qualifies you for the Arizona HSE Diploma |
| GED College Ready | 165 to 174 — skip placement tests and enter college-level courses |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175 to 200 — may earn college credit at participating institutions |
| Below passing | Below 145 — retake required; score report details which areas to improve |
| Score availability | Same day, typically within 3 hours of completing a subject |
Earning a College Ready or College Ready + Credit score on any GED subject can save you money at Arizona community colleges by eliminating remedial coursework requirements.
Arizona GED Online: At-Home Testing
Yes, you can take the GED fully online in Arizona via the remote-proctored system. The Arizona Civics Test can also be taken as an online proctored test. However, there are important differences from in-person testing that Arizona test-takers must understand.
Online GED Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| GED Ready practice test | REQUIRED — must score green (Likely to Pass) before scheduling online GED exam |
| Computer | Windows or Mac desktop or laptop — tablets and phones not accepted |
| Webcam | Required — proctor monitors via camera throughout testing |
| Internet | Stable broadband connection required |
| Environment | Quiet, private room with no other people present |
| Under-18 students | Parent or guardian must be physically present at pre-test check-in; absence = exam revoked |
| Arizona Civics Test online | Available online proctored OR at an authorized GED/Pearson VUE test center |
Online vs. In-Person: Key Differences in Arizona
| Feature | In-Person (Test Center) | Online (Remote Proctored) |
| GED Ready required? | No (recommended) | YES — must score green first |
| Cost per GED subject | $41 | $41 (same) |
| Arizona Civics Test | $9 either format | $9 either format |
| Discounted retake | Yes — 1st retake costs $15 | No — full $41 each time |
| Retake wait | None for 1st 2 retakes | 60-day wait after 2nd attempt |
| All subjects are on the same day | Possible at the test center | No one at a time, schedule separately |
| Best for | Near test center / want discount retakes | No transport / flexible schedule |
How to Get Your GED in Arizona: Step-by-Step
All registration is online at GED.com — walk-in registration at test centers is not available. Here is the complete official process, incorporating Arizona’s unique Civics Test requirement:
- Create a free account at GED.com — enter your legal name, date of birth, email, and select Arizona as your testing state
- If you are 16 or 17: gather your notarized parental consent form and official school withdrawal verification; submit both to an Authorized Testing Location or email to [email protected] before scheduling
- If testing online: take the GED Ready practice test (~$6-8 per subject) for each subject; you must score green before scheduling that subject online
- Schedule the Arizona Civics Test at any point during your GED experience — register and pay the $9 fee through your GED.com account; take it at a test center or online
- Study the 100 USCIS civics questions (available for free) and pass the Arizona Civics Test with 70+ correct answers
- Schedule and take each of your 4 GED subject tests at $41 per subject; take them in any order and on different days
- After passing all 4 GED subjects AND the Arizona Civics Test, your Arizona HSE electronic diploma and transcript will automatically be sent to the email address in your GED.com account
| Important: You Need BOTH — GED + AZ Civics Test
Arizona will NOT issue your HSE Diploma if you pass all 4 GED subjects but have not passed the Arizona Civics Test. Conversely, passing the Civics Test but not all 4 GED subjects also does not result in a diploma. Both are required. Plan and budget for both from the start. Total minimum cost: $173 ($41 x 4 GED subjects + $9 Civics Test). |
Free GED Classes and Practice Tests in Arizona
Arizona has a robust network of free GED prep programs through state-funded adult education centers at community colleges. You should not need to pay for GED preparation — everything you need is available at no cost.
Free GED Classes in Arizona: Key Providers
| Provider | Program Details and Contact |
| Coconino Community College (CCC) | Free classes for Coconino County residents 16+; Flagstaff (Fourth Street campus) and Page; virtual via Zoom throughout the county; free official GED practice tests; opportunities for GED exam fully funded; quarterly start dates: Jan 12, Mar 23, Aug 25, Oct 20 (2025-2026). Contact: 928-526-7639 |
| Central Arizona College (CAC) | Free HSE/GED classes at 6+ campuses: San Tan Valley, Apache Junction, Maricopa, Coolidge, Winkelman, Ak-Chin; IET program combining GED prep with career skills; graduation ceremony each year; college scholarship for qualifying graduates. Contact: 520-494-6440 | [email protected] |
| Rio Salado College Adult Education | Maricopa County, one of Arizona’s largest adult education providers; GED test prep classes free; online and in-person options; visit adulted.riosalado.edu |
| Arizona@Work Partner Programs | Statewide employment and job training coordination; partners with adult education centers for GED prep and workforce training. Find programs at arizonaatwork.com |
| All ADE-funded programs statewide | Arizona has dozens of state-funded adult education programs. Find your nearest: azed.gov/adultedservices — click ‘Arizona Adult Education Programs’ |
Free Arizona GED Practice Tests (Online)
| Resource | Where to Access / What It Provides |
| GED.com Free Test Previews | ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html — short subject-by-subject previews to familiarize with real question types |
| GED.com Practice Questions | ged.com/study/practice-questions.html — official sample questions by subject |
| GED Ready Practice Test (paid, ~$6-8/subject) | Most accurate readiness predictor; required for online testing; green = likely to pass; available at GED.com |
| Prepsare.com | Free and premium video lessons and prep test materials for all GED subjects, including math, reading, science, and social studies. |
| Arizona GED Study Guide | GED.com has an official Arizona GED study guide PDF and self-study materials; check your local library for GED prep books |
| GED Mobile App | Free iOS and Android app from GED Testing Service — study anywhere |
| Arizona public libraries | Many offer free Learning Express Library access with full-length GED practice tests, scoring, and answer explanations |
HiSET vs. GED: Which One is Better?
Even though HiSET is not available in Arizona, many people want to understand the difference between HiSET vs. GED before committing to the GED path. Here is the most complete comparison available.
| Feature | GED (Arizona) | HiSET (Not in Arizona) |
| Available in Arizona | YES | NO |
| Number of subjects | 4 (+ AZ Civics Test) | 5 |
| Total test time | 7 hours (GED) + untimed Civics | ~7-8 hours |
| Math difficulty | Higher — algebra and functions prominent | Slightly lower; broader coverage |
| Passing score | 145 out of 200 per subject | 8 out of 20 per subject |
| Essay requirement | Yes — 45-min Extended Response | Yes — Writing an essay |
| Calculator allowed? | Yes, Part 2 of Math; formula sheet provided | No calc Part 1; allowed Part 2 |
| Format | Computer-based (primarily) | Computer + paper options |
| Online testing | Yes — GED OnVUE | Yes — HiSET @Home |
| Cost (full exam, AZ) | $164 (4 subjects) + $9 Civics = $173 | $75-160, depending on the state |
| Score tiers | Pass / College Ready / College Ready + Credit | Pass only |
| National acceptance | Widely accepted by employers, colleges, and the military | Widely accepted in states that offer it |
| HiSET states 2026 | N/A — not in AZ | 20 states, including Maine, NH, Iowa, WY, MA |
Is a HiSET Easier Than a GED?
This is one of the most commonly searched comparisons. The honest answer depends on individual strengths:
- GED Math is generally harder — it focuses heavily on algebraic reasoning, functions, and data interpretation
- HiSET covers 5 subjects instead of 4, spreading study time more broadly with lower minimum thresholds per subject (8/20 vs. 145/200)
- GED offers College Ready score tiers — if you score 165+ on any subject, you can bypass remedial college courses, which has real monetary value
- For Arizona residents, this comparison is moot — the GED is the only standardized test pathway available in the state
What Is the Difference Between HSE and HiSET?
This question comes up frequently because both abbreviations appear in research about high school equivalency. Here is a clear, authoritative explanation:
| Term | What It Means |
| HSE (High School Equivalency) | A general term for any state-issued credential that is the legal equivalent of a high school diploma. In Arizona, the credential is called the Arizona High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma. The HSE is the diploma itself — awarded by the State of Arizona under ARS Section 15-702. |
| GED (General Educational Development) | A specific brand of tests — four subject exams owned and administered by GED Testing Service LLC. The GED tests are one pathway to earning the Arizona HSE Diploma. The GED is the test; the HSE is the diploma you receive after passing. |
| HiSET | Another brand of high school equivalency tests (administered by PSI Services/ETS). Like the GED, HiSET tests can lead to an HSE Diploma — but only in states that have approved HiSET. Arizona has NOT approved HiSET, so taking HiSET would not earn you an Arizona HSE Diploma. |
| Why this matters for Arizona | In Arizona, passing the GED tests + Arizona Civics Test = earning the Arizona HSE Diploma. HiSET is not an option. The diploma (HSE) is official; the test (GED) is just the vehicle to get there. |
Is the Arizona Adult Diploma / HSE Diploma Legitimate?
Yes. The Arizona High School Equivalency Diploma is a fully legitimate, state-issued credential authorized by Arizona Revised Statutes and awarded by the Arizona Department of Education. It is not a private or unaccredited diploma.
| Legal Standing
The Arizona HSE Diploma carries the same legal weight as a traditional Arizona high school diploma. It is accepted by all Arizona employers, all Arizona colleges and universities (community colleges, state universities, ASU, UA, NAU), all branches of the U.S. military, and federal employment and training programs. |
Some people search for ‘Arizona adult diploma’ and encounter private diploma mills that sell non-accredited diplomas online for a fee. These are NOT legitimate and are not accepted by employers or colleges. The only legitimate HSE Diploma in Arizona is issued through the ADE after completing an approved pathway (GED Testing Pathway, College Credit Pathway, or HSE PLUS Career Readiness Pathway).
What the Arizona HSE Diploma Unlocks
- Community college admission — all Arizona community colleges accept the AZ HSE Diploma
- Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University all accept the HSE Diploma for admission
- Federal financial aid (FAFSA) — eligibility unlocked for Pell Grants and student loans
- Military service — all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces accept the GED / HSE Diploma
- Federal government employment — all positions accepting an HS diploma also accept an HSE Diploma
- Most employers in Arizona — the HSE Diploma satisfies HS diploma or equivalent job requirements
Arizona GED Transcript and Diploma: How to Get Them
After passing all 4 GED subjects and the Arizona Civics Test, the State of Arizona will automatically issue your documents.
What You Receive Automatically
- One free electronic diploma and one free electronic transcript will be sent to your GED.com account email once you have passed all requirements
- PDFs are verified by GED Testing Service/Parchment using Blue Ribbon Security — employers and institutions can verify authenticity when they open the document
- Download immediately — download links are available for a limited time only
Requesting Official Transcripts
For official Arizona HSE transcripts:
- For GED Testing Pathway: request through ged.com/life-after-ged.html — Arizona has partnered with GED Testing Service/Parchment for fulfillment.
- For Arizona HSE Transcript requests and verifications: visit azed.gov/adultedservices/high-school-equivalency and follow the Request or Verify an Arizona HSE Transcript link
- Printed diploma: log in to GED.com, go to My Scores, select Order Duplicates, then select Printed Diploma
Important: You must have taken your LAST GED subject test in Arizona to receive the Arizona HSE Diploma — if you started testing in another state and finished in Arizona, confirm this requirement with ADE at [email protected]
Arizona GED Administrator Contact
| Role | Contact Details |
| Director HSE Services | JoLaunda Rodriguez | Arizona Department of Education | 1535 West Jefferson BIN #26, Phoenix, AZ 85007 | Main: 602-258-2410 | [email protected] |
| State Director of Adult Education | Beverly Wilson | Arizona Department of Education | Office: (602) 364-2602 | [email protected] |
How to Pass the Arizona GED Fast
The average preparation time for the GED is 2 to 3 months, according to GED.com. Focused students with a structured plan often pass individual subjects in 2 to 4 weeks. Here is what works for Arizona students specifically — including the Civics Test.
Arizona-Specific 30-Day GED + Civics Study Plan
| Week | Focus and Activities |
| Week 1: Diagnose and target | Take free GED.com test previews in all 4 subjects; identify your 1-2 weakest areas. Simultaneously, start studying the 100 USCIS Naturalization civics questions — these are publicly available for free and should take 2-3 hours total to review. |
| Week 2: Deep subject work | Focus 70% of the time on Mathematical Reasoning (most commonly failed subject). Study algebra, linear equations, and data interpretation. Schedule and take the Arizona Civics Test this week — it is untimed, and you can retake it for just $9; getting it done early removes one requirement from your list. |
| Week 3: Full subject rotation + timed practice | Take one full-time practice test per GED subject. Fix weak areas immediately after each test. Begin practicing the 45-minute Extended Response essay for RLA — write at least 2 timed practice essays. |
| Week 4: GED Ready and scheduling | Take the GED Ready official practice test (~$6-8/subject) for your first target subject. Score green = schedule your real exam. Use the remaining time to continue studying weaker subjects before scheduling them. |
Subject-Specific Tips for Arizona GED
- Mathematical Reasoning: A formula sheet is provided at the test center and on screen during the exam — you do not need to memorize formulas. Focus on knowing how to use them. The biggest challenge is Part 1 (no calculator) — practice basic arithmetic, fractions, and order of operations without any device. Work through at least 30 word problems before testing.
- RLA Extended Response Essay: You have 45 minutes to write an argument-based essay using two provided source texts. Practice the 3-step process: read both passages and identify the central argument, outline your position with 2-3 pieces of evidence from the texts, write a clear introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs with cited evidence, and a conclusion. Spelling and grammar also factor into your score.
- Science and Social Studies: Both tests rely heavily on interpreting charts, graphs, maps, and primary source documents — not memorizing facts. Practice analyzing a table or graph and answering 3-4 questions about it. This one skill accounts for the majority of questions on both tests.
- Arizona Civics Test: Study the official 100 USCIS Naturalization questions — available free at uscis.gov. They cover the U.S. government structure, the Constitution, U.S. history, rights, and responsibilities. You need 70 correct. Read through the list 2-3 times, then take a practice quiz. Most people find this the most straightforward part of Arizona’s requirements with a little focused study.
Arizona HiSET Alternative: FAQs
How do I get my GED in Arizona?
Create a free account at GED.com and select Arizona. For 16 or 17-year-olds, submit a notarized parental consent form and school withdrawal verification to an authorized test center or email to [email protected]. Study using free resources from your local adult education program or GED.com. Register for the Arizona Civics Test through your GED.com account ($9) and pass with 70+/100. Schedule and pass all 4 GED subject tests at $41 per subject. After passing both, your Arizona HSE Diploma and transcript are automatically emailed to you. Contact: [email protected] | (602) 258-2410.
How fast can you get a GED in AZ?
Motivated, focused students typically pass the GED in 4 to 8 weeks with daily study. The average preparation time is 2 to 3 months, according to GED.com. Arizona adds the Civics Test to the standard GED requirements — but since the Civics Test is untimed and you can retake it with no waiting period, it can usually be completed in a few days of focused study. Budget an additional 1-2 weeks to address the Civics Test specifically. Your overall timeline depends entirely on how much preparation you need and how consistently you study.
How much does a GED test cost in Arizona?
Arizona charges $41 per GED subject test, totaling $164 for all 4 subjects. Additionally, Arizona requires the Arizona Civics Test at $9 per attempt. Your minimum first-attempt cost for the complete Arizona HSE Diploma via GED pathway is $173. Discounted retakes for in-person testing cost $15 per subject (GED Testing Service waives its $26 fee). Online retakes cost $41 each with no discount. Free GED prep classes are available at community colleges statewide through state-funded adult education programs.
Can I do my GED fully online?
Yes — both the GED subject tests and the Arizona Civics Test can be taken online via remote proctoring. For online GED testing, you must first take and pass the GED Ready practice test (scoring green) for each subject before scheduling. You need a computer with a webcam, a stable internet, and a quiet, private space. Each subject must be scheduled separately for online testing. The Arizona Civics Test can also be taken online or at a test center — your choice.
Can you get your GED online in AZ?
Yes. Arizona allows fully online GED testing. The prerequisite is passing the GED Ready practice test for each subject with a green (Likely to Pass) score. Both online and in-person both cost $41 per subject. The key practical difference: no discounted retake is available online, while in-person testing offers a first discounted retake for $15. For the Arizona Civics Test, you can take it online, proctored, or at an authorized test center — both cost $9.
What is the difference between HSE and HiSET?
HSE stands for High School Equivalency — it is the general term for any state-issued credential that is the legal equivalent of a high school diploma. In Arizona, the diploma is called the Arizona HSE Diploma (Arizona High School Equivalency Diploma), awarded by the Arizona Department of Education. HiSET, on the other hand, is a specific brand of high school equivalency tests (administered by PSI Services) — like GED is a brand of tests. Arizona has not approved HiSET as a valid pathway, so taking HiSET would not earn you an Arizona HSE Diploma. In Arizona, the GED is the test; the HSE Diploma is what you earn.
Is the Arizona adult diploma legit?
The Arizona High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma — earned by passing the GED tests plus the Arizona Civics Test through the official pathway — is a fully legitimate, state-issued credential authorized by Arizona Revised Statutes Section 15-702. It is accepted by Arizona employers, all Arizona colleges and universities, the military, and federal programs. Be cautious: private ‘online diploma’ programs that sell diplomas for a fee without testing are diploma mills and are not legitimate. The only valid Arizona adult diploma pathway runs through the Arizona Department of Education at azed.gov/adultedservices.
Is a HiSET easier than a GED?
This depends on the individual. GED Math is generally considered harder because it emphasizes algebraic reasoning and real-world problem solving; however, GED offers College Ready score tiers (165-174 and 175-200) that can earn you college credit or bypass placement tests — a significant advantage. HiSET covers 5 subjects (vs. 4 for GED) with a lower minimum passing threshold per subject (8/20 vs. 145/200), which some people find less daunting. For Arizona residents, this comparison is academic — the HiSET is not available in the state, so the GED is your only standardized test pathway.
Final Thoughts: GED Your Arizona HiSET Alternative
If you came here looking for an Arizona HiSET alternative, you now have the complete picture: the HiSET is not available in Arizona, and the state’s official pathway — the GED Testing Pathway — is a strong, nationally respected credential that opens real doors to college, careers, and a better future.
The most important Arizona-specific thing to plan for is the Arizona Civics Test — a unique requirement not found in most states. As of January 1, 2026, the passing score has been raised to 70/100. Schedule it early, study the free USCIS civics questions, and get it done so it does not delay your diploma after passing your GED tests.
Arizona’s free adult education network — at Coconino Community College, Central Arizona College, Rio Salado, and dozens of ADE-funded programs statewide — means you have no excuse not to get expert help preparing. Use it.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. Create a free GED account at GED.com and select Arizona 2. Take free GED test previews at ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html 3. Find your nearest free adult education program: azed.gov/adultedservices (click Arizona Adult Education Programs) 4. Study the 100 USCIS civics questions (free at uscis.gov) and schedule the $9 Arizona Civics Test 5. Take GED Ready practice tests (~$6-8/subject) when you feel ready — green score means schedule your real exam 6. Pass all 4 GED subjects + AZ Civics Test and receive your Arizona HSE Diploma
Arizona Dept. of Education Adult Education: [email protected] | (602) 258-2410 Coconino Community College Adult Ed: 928-526-7639 Central Arizona College Adult Ed: 520-494-6440 | [email protected] GED Technical Support: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) |