Is the HiSET Available in Alabama? No. Alabama does not offer the HiSET exam. The GED is the only state-approved high school equivalency test in Alabama. All employers, colleges, training programs, and the military in Alabama recognize the GED as the official path to a high school equivalency diploma.
While states like Georgia, California (for adult learners through HiSET HSE), and approximately 20 other states still offer the HiSET as an option, Alabama has standardized exclusively on the GED. This is administered at the state level by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) through the Alabama Adult Education (AAESAP) program.
The official credential you earn in Alabama is called the State of Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma, issued upon passing all four GED subject tests.
Which States Still Offer HiSET?
Understanding which states offer HiSET vs. GED helps if you have relocated or are considering testing in another state. Key points:
| State | Available Exam(s) |
| Alabama | GED only — HiSET not available |
| Georgia | GED only — HiSET not available in GA either (commonly searched: HiSET vs GED Georgia) |
| California | Both GED and HiSET are available for adult HSE learners; HiSET Proficiency is available for current HS students |
| Maine, New Hampshire, Iowa, Wyoming | HiSET available as primary or alternative option |
| Texas, Florida, New York | GED only |
| Massachusetts | HiSET is the primary exam (GED not offered) |
If you move to a state that offers HiSET, any GED subjects you have already passed in Alabama cannot be combined with HiSET results. You would need to start that state’s designated exam from the beginning.
What Is the Alabama GED?
The GED (General Educational Development) test is a four-subject high school equivalency examination developed by GED Testing Service LLC. It measures the academic skills required by high schools and requested by employers and colleges.
In Alabama, it is administered through the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Adult Education Division, overseen by State Director Kimberly Gaines.
The GED has been continuously updated — the current version, introduced in 2014, places a significant emphasis on critical thinking, data analysis, and real-world application of knowledge rather than rote memorization.
This makes it slightly more challenging than older versions and more advanced than the HiSET in certain areas, particularly mathematics.
Alabama GED At-a-Glance
| Fact | Detail |
| Official name of credential | State of Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma |
| Administered by | Alabama Community College System (ACCS) / Alabama Adult Education (AAESAP) |
| State GED Administrator | Kimberly Gaines, Director — [email protected] | (334) 293-4567 |
| Number of subjects | 4 |
| Total test time | Approximately 7 hours (split across sessions) |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 |
| Score results | Available same day within 3 hours of completing a subject |
| Available languages | English and Spanish; you may combine languages to earn your credential |
| Cost per subject | $36 (both in-person and online) |
| Total cost (all 4 subjects) | $144 |
Alabama GED Eligibility Requirements (2026)
Eligibility rules in Alabama differ based on age. All requirements come directly from the official Alabama GED policies at ged.com and the Alabama Community College System.
Adults 18 and Older
If you are 18 or older, the requirements are straightforward:
- You do not need to be a resident of Alabama (residency requirement only applies to those under 18)
- You must not currently be enrolled in high school
- You must not already hold a high school diploma
- You do not need to complete a preparatory class before testing, though classes are strongly recommended
- You do not need to take the GED Ready practice test before an in-person test (required for online testing)
Students Age 17 — Additional Requirements
- Must be an Alabama resident and must have exited an Alabama public school
- Must present a notarized Student Exit Interview form from the school system to the GED Examiner
- Must present a notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian granting permission to take the GED test
- For online testing only: a parent or guardian must be present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize recording during testing — failure to have a parent present will result in exam session revocation
Students Age 16 — Additional Requirements
- Must be an Alabama resident and have exited an Alabama public school
- Must present a notarized Certificate of Exemption issued by the local school district superintendent to the GED Examiner
- Must present a notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian granting permission
- Must receive a minimum score of ASE Low on the TABE Test OR a ‘Likely to Pass’ score on the GED Ready Mathematical Reasoning and Reasoning Through Language Arts practice tests
16 or 17 — Exited from Private School, Church School, or Private Tutor Program
- Must be an Alabama resident
- Must present a notarized letter from a parent or legal guardian granting permission AND evidence of withdrawal on the school or program letterhead
- Must meet minimum TABE or GED Ready score requirements
| Important: All Under-18 Documentation Must Be Submitted in Person
Students aged 16 or 17 must physically deliver all required documents to a GED testing site before being allowed to test. On-site registration is not available — you must register online at ged.com first, then bring documentation to the test center. |
Alabama GED Cost 2026 Fee Guide
The GED cost in Alabama is straightforward and consistent across test formats. Here is everything you need to know, including retake fees and financial assistance options.
Standard Test Fees
| Fee Item | Amount / Detail |
| Per subject — In-Person (Test Center) | $36.00 |
| Per subject — Online (Remote Proctored) | $36.00 |
| All 4 subjects (no retakes) — In-Person | $144.00 |
| All 4 subjects (no retakes) — Online | $144.00 |
| Payment method | Debit or credit card online when scheduling; no cash at test centers |
| Alternative payment | American Express Bluebird prepaid card — register at bluebird.com and add funds with cash at Walmart |
Retake Fees
| Retake Rule | Details |
| In-Person retake (1st discounted retake) | GED Testing Service waives its $26 test fee; Alabama charges a $10 test center fee = $10 total |
| In-Person retake (after first discounted retake) | Full $36 per subject resumes; 1:1 discounted retake offer repeats |
| Online retake | $36 per subject — no discounted retake available for online proctored exams |
| Retake waiting period — In-Person | No waiting period for first 2 retakes; 60-day wait after 3rd attempt on same subject |
| Retake waiting period — Online | One retake before a 60-day waiting period applies |
| Retake limit | No annual limit on in-person testing; 60-day wait triggers after 3 attempts on same subject |
Free and Subsidized GED Options in Alabama
Many Alabama residents pay nothing out of pocket for their GED, thanks to several programs:
- ACCS See4Free Program: The Alabama Community College System offers a program where you take a GED Ready practice test for free — if you pass, ACCS covers the cost of the real GED exam. Contact your local Adult Education provider for details.
- Adult Education Classes (Free): Free GED prep classes are available at community colleges statewide through Adult Education programs. Classes cover all four GED subjects and are open enrollment — no semester start required.
- Coastal Alabama Community College: Their GED program allows students to study and take GED Ready Practice Tests and Real GED Tests in all four subject areas at NO COST. Students who complete their GED through Coastal Alabama’s Adult Education program also qualify for a scholarship for one free class at Coastal Alabama.
- WIOA Funding: Adults who meet income eligibility requirements may receive exam fee coverage through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act-funded programs.
| Free GED Alabama — Key Contacts
ACCS Adult Education (statewide): [email protected] | (334) 293-4567 Naomi Scales (ACCS): [email protected] | (334) 293-4563 Paula Thompson (ACCS): [email protected] | (334) 293-4564 Coastal Alabama Community College (GED/HSDO): (800) 381-3722 Find your nearest provider: accs.edu/adult-education/adult-ed-providers/ |
Alabama GED Subjects, Format, and Test Length
The Alabama GED consists of four subject tests, each administered separately. You can take them in any order, on different days, and do not need to pass all four before retaking a failed subject. Total testing time across all four subjects is approximately 7 hours, but you do not have to take them all in one session.
Subject Test Overview
| Subject | Time Limit | Content and Format |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 minutes (includes a 10-min break) | Reading comprehension, extended response essay, grammar and writing mechanics |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Basic math, geometry, graphs, algebra, and functions; calculator allowed in Part 2 |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life science, physical science, earth/space science; heavy data interpretation from graphs/charts |
| Social Studies | 90 minutes | U.S. history, civics/government, economics, geography; map and source document analysis |
Question Types on the Alabama GED
The GED uses multiple question formats — not just multiple choice. Understanding these helps you prepare more effectively:
- Multiple choice: Select the correct answer from four options — the most common format
- Drag-and-drop: Move items into a correct sequence, category, or location on a map or diagram
- Fill-in-the-blank (gridded response): Type a number answer in a grid — common in math
- Short answer: Write a brief response (used in Science)
- Extended response (essay): Write a full argumentative essay based on source texts (RLA — 45 minutes)
- Hot spot: Click on a specific location on an image, diagram, or map
Passing Score and Score Levels
| Score Range | What It Means |
| Passing (High School Equivalency) | 145 to 164 — earns Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma |
| GED College Ready | 165 to 174 — qualifies for college-level courses without placement testing |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175 to 200 — may earn college credit at participating institutions |
| Below Passing | Below 145 — must retake that subject; score report shows areas to improve |
| Score availability | Same day, within 3 hours of completing the test |
Scores above the passing threshold matter — a College Ready or College Ready + Credit score can save you money by skipping remedial college courses or earning college credit outright.
Alabama GED Online: Can You Take the GED at Home?
Yes, Alabama allows online GED testing via the GED’s remote-proctored system. You take the exam from your home or any quiet location with a live online proctor monitoring you via webcam. However, there are important differences from in-person testing in Alabama.
Online GED Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| GED Ready practice test | REQUIRED before online testing — must score ‘green’ (Likely to Pass) on GED Ready before scheduling the real online exam |
| Computer | Windows or Mac desktop or laptop — tablets and phones not accepted |
| Webcam | Required — used by the proctor to verify identity and monitor during testing |
| Internet | Reliable, stable connection required |
| Space | Quiet, private workspace with no other people present |
| For under-18 students | Parent or guardian must be present at pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize recording — exam will be revoked if parent is absent |
Online vs. In-Person: Key Differences in Alabama
| Feature | In-Person (Test Center) | Online (Remote Proctored) |
| GED Ready practice test | Not required (recommended) | REQUIRED — must score green |
| Cost per subject | $36 | $36 (same) |
| Discounted retake | Yes — first retake costs $10 | No — full $36 each time |
| Retake waiting period | None for first 2 retakes | 60-day wait after 2nd attempt |
| Take the subjects on the same day | Yes (if test center hours allow) | No — must schedule separately, one at a time |
| All subjects at once | Possible in one day | Must schedule each separately |
| Best for | People near a test center or who want discounted retakes | People far from test centers or with tight schedules |
| Free Online GED Prep Alabama
GED.com offers free test previews and practice questions at ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html GED Ready practice tests (paid, ~$6 per subject) are the most accurate readiness indicator Khan Academy: free video lessons for all GED subject areas at khanacademy.org Alabama public libraries: many offer free access to Learning Express Library with GED practice tests GED Mobile App: free download for iOS and Android for on-the-go study |
How to Get Your GED in Alabama: Step-by-Step
The process is fully online for registration. Walk-in registration at testing centers is NOT available in Alabama. Follow these steps from official GED.com guidance:
- Go to ged.com and create a free account — provide your legal name, date of birth, email address, and select Alabama as your testing state
- If you are 16 or 17, gather all required documentation (notarized forms, Certificate of Exemption if 16, parental permission letter) and plan to present them in person at the test center before testing
- If testing online, take the GED Ready practice test for each subject you plan to test — you must score ‘green’ (Likely to Pass) before you can schedule the online exam for that subject
- Log in to your GED account, go to Schedule a Test, choose your subject, and select either an in-person test center or the online proctored option
- Pay the $36 per subject fee with a debit or credit card; if you need a payment alternative, use the American Express Bluebird prepaid card loaded at any Walmart location
- Receive your confirmation and save your admission information for the test day
- On test day: bring a valid government-issued photo ID; no notes, phones, or smart watches allowed
| No Prep Class Required — But Strongly Advised
Alabama does not require you to attend GED preparation classes before testing. However, ACCS emphasizes that taking free prep classes is the best way to prepare. Adults who attend classes before testing have significantly higher first-attempt pass rates. Best of all, classes are free at every Alabama community college adult education center. |
New Alabama High School Diploma Options for Adults
Beyond the GED, Alabama offers two additional pathways to earn a legitimate high school credential through the Alabama Community College System. These are distinct from the GED and may be better options for certain adults.
Alabama Nontraditional High School Diploma Option (HSDO)
The Alabama Nontraditional High School Diploma Option (HSDO) is a program specifically designed for adults who came close to finishing high school but did not receive their diploma. Unlike the GED, this pathway awards a genuine Alabama High School Diploma — not an equivalency credential.
Key facts about the HSDO:
- Age requirement: Must be 19 years of age or older (you may begin coursework earlier, but cannot enroll until age 19)
- Option 1: You attended an Alabama public high school, earned enough credits to graduate, but failed the high school graduation exam
- Option 2: You earned 10 or more credits from an Alabama public high school but need additional credits to graduate
- Your last school must have been an Alabama public high school — private schools and out-of-state schools are not eligible for HSDO
- The classes are FREE to students through adult education programs
- The actual diploma is issued by the last Alabama public high school or local school system you attended
- Coastal Alabama Community College HSDO students receive their diplomas paid for by the Adult Education Program
How to Start the HSDO Process
- Contact your nearest ACCS Adult Education provider (find them at accs.edu/adult-education/adult-ed-providers/ )
- Request that a Transcript Audit Form be sent from your last Alabama public high school to the Adult Education program — electronic submission is preferred, or hand-deliver in a sealed envelope with official school seal
- The Adult Education team reviews your transcripts and determines what requirements remain for graduation
- Complete required coursework through the adult education program at no cost
- Receive your official Alabama High School Diploma from your last attended school district
GED: The Equivalency Credential
If you do not qualify for the HSDO (e.g., your last school was out of state or private), the GED remains your fastest and most widely accessible path. Alabama also accepts the Alabama Occupational Diploma (AOD) holders as eligible to take the GED.
Comparison: GED vs. Alabama HSDO
| Criteria | GED | HSDO (Diploma Option) |
| Credential type | State of Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma | Actual Alabama High School Diploma |
| Issued by | GED Testing Service / State of Alabama | Your last Alabama public high school |
| Minimum age | 16 (with requirements) / 18 (no requirements) | 19 to enroll |
| Eligibility | Most adults without a diploma | Must have attended an AL public HS and left with 10+ credits |
| Cost | $144 (all 4 subjects) | Classes are free; a diploma may have a small school fee |
| Time to complete | Weeks to months, depending on prep | Varies by remaining credits — months to a year+ |
| Recognition | Nationally recognized equivalency | Same recognition as a traditional HS diploma |
| GED Ready required? | No (in-person); Yes (online) | N/A — no test required |
HiSET vs. GED: Alabama Chose GED Only
Even though the HiSET is not available in Alabama, many people searching for information want to understand the difference between HiSET vs. GED and whether the GED is harder. Here is a detailed, authoritative comparison.
| Feature | GED (Alabama) | HiSET (Not in Alabama) |
| Number of subjects | 4 | 5 |
| Available in Alabama | YES | NO |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 | 8 out of 20 |
| Total test time | ~7 hours | ~7-8 hours |
| Math difficulty | Higher — algebra and functions prominent | Slightly lower — broader coverage |
| Essay requirement | Yes — Extended Response (45 min) | Yes — Writing an essay |
| Calculator policy | On-screen calc provided for Part 2 of Math | No calc on Part 1 of Math; allowed Part 2 |
| Testing format | Computer-based (primarily) | Computer-based and paper-based |
| Online testing | Yes — GED OnVUE | Yes — HiSET @Home |
| Cost (full exam) | ~$144 (Alabama) | Varies by state (~$75 in-person in most states) |
| College recognition | Widely accepted nationwide | Widely accepted; varies more by state |
| Military acceptance | Yes — all branches | Yes — all branches |
| Score levels | Pass / College Ready / College Ready + Credit | Pass only (scaled score) |
HiSET vs. GED: Which Is Harder?
The most searched comparison is ‘HiSET vs GED, which is harder.’ The honest answer depends on individual strengths:
- GED Math is generally considered more challenging — it includes more algebraic reasoning, functions, and data interpretation, and the GED’s format emphasizes application over recall
- HiSET covers 5 subjects vs. GED’s 4 — spreading study across more areas but with lower individual passing thresholds (8/20 vs. 145/200)
- GED offers additional score tiers (College Ready, College Ready + Credit), which can benefit students who aim high, giving the GED more upside value
- For Alabama residents, this comparison is academic — the GED is your only path, and it is entirely achievable with proper preparation
Free GED Classes and Practice Tests in Alabama
Alabama’s adult education network provides extensive free resources. You should not pay for GED prep — everything you need is available at no cost through official channels.
Free GED Prep Classes: Alabama Adult Education (AAESAP)
Free GED classes are available at community colleges throughout Alabama through the Alabama Adult Education State Adult Programs (AAESAP). Classes cover all four GED subjects and are open enrollment — you do not need to wait for a new semester or term.
| Provider | Details |
| Central Alabama Community College | Multiple locations in Chilton, Elmore, and Talladega counties — contact ACCS for the current schedule |
| Coastal Alabama Community College | 11+ locations, including Atmore, Bay Minette, Brewton, Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores, Monroeville, Thomasville — morning and evening sessions available |
| Tuscaloosa City Schools Adult Ed | Non-traditional GED/Diploma program through Tuscaloosa City Schools — visit tuscaloosacityschools.com for details |
| All 24 ACCS community colleges | Every Alabama community college has an Adult Education program offering free GED prep — find yours at accs.edu/adult-education/adult-ed-providers/ |
Free Alabama GED Practice Tests
| Resource | Where to Access |
| GED Free Test Previews (Official) | ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html — short subject previews to familiarize yourself with question types |
| GED Practice Questions (Official) | ged.com/study/practice-questions.html — official sample questions by subject |
| GED Ready Practice Test (Paid, ~$6/subject) | The most accurate predictor of GED readiness; required for online testing; scores ‘green’ = likely to pass |
| Prepsaret.com | Comprehensive freehand premium prep test materials, lessons for math, reading, science, and social studies |
| GED Mobile App | Free download on iOS and Android — official GED app with study tools and practice |
| Alabama Public Libraries | Many offer free Learning Express Library access with full GED practice tests and answer explanations |
Coastal Alabama GED Program — Special Scholarship
Students who complete their GED through Coastal Alabama Community College’s Adult Education Program qualify for a scholarship for ONE FREE CLASS at Coastal Alabama Community College. This makes Coastal Alabama one of the most valuable GED programs in the state — you earn your credential AND get a free head start on college.
How to Pass the Alabama GED Fast
The average time to prepare for the GED is 2 to 3 months, according to GED.com. However, motivated students with a focused study plan often pass individual subjects in 2 to 4 weeks. Here is what actually works.
30-Day GED Study Blueprint
| Week | Focus and Activities |
| Week 1: Diagnose and target | Take a free GED practice test in all four subjects to establish your baseline. Identify your 1-2 weakest subjects and dedicate 70% of your study time there. Use official GED.com practice questions daily. |
| Week 2: Deep subject work | Focus on Mathematical Reasoning (the most commonly failed subject). Study algebra, linear equations, and graphs. Begin RLA — practice reading passages and responding to comprehension questions. |
| Week 3: Full subject rotation + timed tests | Take one full-time practice test per subject. Fix weak areas immediately. Start practicing the extended response essay — aim for a structured 4-paragraph argument with a clear thesis and evidence. |
| Week 4: Final prep and scheduling | Take the GED Ready official practice test ($6/subject). If you score green on a subject, schedule that real GED exam. If not, study specific weak areas for 3-5 more days before retesting on GED Ready. |
Subject-Specific Tips
- Mathematical Reasoning (Most Failed Subject): Do not try to relearn all of high school math. Focus on the 5 highest-yield areas: basic arithmetic, ratios and proportions, linear equations, graphs and data interpretation, and basic geometry. Practice with and without the calculator — Part 1 of the Math test is calculator-free. Work through at least 30 word problems before testing.
- Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) — Extended Response Essay: You have 45 minutes to write an argumentative essay using evidence from the provided source texts. Practice the 3-step process: (1) read both passages and identify the main argument, (2) outline your position with 2-3 pieces of text evidence, (3) write a clear intro, 2-3 body paragraphs with evidence, and a conclusion. Grammar and organization are both scored.
- Science and Social Studies: Both tests are heavily data-driven. Most questions require interpreting charts, graphs, maps, or primary source documents — not memorizing facts. Practice reading a visual (table, graph, diagram) and answering 3-4 questions about it before your exam. This single skill accounts for a large portion of both tests.
Day-of-Test Checklist
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — no ID means no testing
- Arrive at the test center at least 15 minutes early; for online testing, complete your pre-test check-in and environment scan 10-15 minutes before your session
- Leave your phone, smart watch, notes, food, drinks, and hats in your car — prohibited items cannot be brought into the testing room
- Use the scratch paper provided at the test center for math work — it is provided for you
- Pace yourself — each test has a set time limit; flag difficult questions and return to them rather than getting stuck
- For the essay, spend 5 minutes planning your argument structure before writing — planned essays consistently score higher
Alabama GED Transcripts, Diplomas, and Scores
After passing all four GED subjects and earning your Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma, here is exactly how to access your documents:
- One free electronic diploma and one free electronic transcript are automatically sent to the email address linked to your GED account after you pass all four subjects
- The electronic documents are PDF files verified by GED Testing Service/Parchment using Blue Ribbon Security — employers and colleges can verify authenticity each time the document is opened
- Download and save these files immediately — links are available for a limited time only
Ordering Physical and Additional Documents
| Document Type | How to Obtain |
| Printed diploma | Log in to your GED account at ged.com, go to My Scores, select Order Duplicates, then Printed Diploma |
| Transcript requests | Available at ged.com/life-after-ged.html |
| Transcript/diploma contacts for Alabama | Danielle Smith, Administrative Assistant: (334) 293-4567 | [email protected] |
| GED Parchment support | parchmentsupport.force.com/GED/s/test-takers |
| Verifications for incarcerated individuals | Submit via accs.edu or email [email protected] |
After Your GED: What’s Next?
- Enroll at any Alabama community college — ACCS offers your FIRST college class FREE after earning your GED through an Adult Education program
- Apply for Ready to Work programs (alabamareadytowork.org) for career training and workforce credentials
- Apply for FAFSA financial aid — your GED credential makes you eligible for federal financial aid for college
- Explore certificate programs at Alabama community colleges in healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and more — most require only a GED or high school diploma for admission
What Can You Do With a GED in Alabama?
A common concern is whether the GED is truly equivalent to a high school diploma for employers and colleges. The answer, confirmed by law and practice, is yes.
| Legal Equivalence
The State of Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma earned through the GED is legally equivalent to a traditional Alabama high school diploma. It is accepted by all Alabama employers, all Alabama colleges and universities, all branches of the U.S. military, and federal employment and training programs. |
Career Opportunities Opened by the Alabama GED
| Opportunity | Details |
| Entry-level employment | Customer service, retail, warehousing, manufacturing, food service — most require HS diploma or equivalent |
| Military service | All branches of the U.S. Armed Forces accept the GED; some branches may have additional requirements |
| Community college | Admission to all Alabama community colleges — with your first class free if earned through ACCS Adult Education |
| Healthcare | CNA programs, medical assistant training, and pharmacy technician most require a GED for admission |
| Skilled trades | Electrician, plumber, HVAC, welding apprenticeships — typically require a GED for program enrollment |
| IT certifications | CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+ — no diploma required, but a GED satisfies employer requirements |
| Federal employment | All federal government positions accepting an HS diploma also accept the GED equivalency |
| SNAP/unemployment job training | Eligibility for Alabama workforce training programs funded through WIOA |
Alabama HiSET Alternative: FAQs
What is the alternate diploma in Alabama?
Alabama offers two main alternatives to a traditional high school diploma for adults: (1) The GED, which earns you the State of Alabama High School Equivalency Diploma — a widely accepted equivalency credential; and (2) The Alabama Nontraditional High School Diploma Option (HSDO), which is available to adults 19+ who previously attended an Alabama public high school and left with at least 10 credits. The HSDO awards an actual Alabama High School Diploma from the last attended school district. Classes for both programs are free through ACCS Adult Education.
Can I do my GED online in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama allows online GED testing via the remote-proctored GED OnVUE system. You need a compatible computer, webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection, plus a quiet private space. One critical difference from in-person testing: you must take and pass the GED Ready practice test (scoring ‘green’ or Likely to Pass) before you can schedule an online exam. The cost is the same — $36 per subject. Note that online testing does not offer discounted retakes.
What is Alabama’s alternate assessment?
For currently enrolled K-12 students with significant cognitive disabilities, Alabama uses the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) Alternate Assessment System as an alternate to standard ACAP assessments. This is separate from adult education. For adults seeking a high school equivalency credential, the GED is the primary assessment; the HSDO is the alternate diploma pathway for eligible adults who previously attended Alabama public schools.
Is the HiSET equivalent to a high school diploma?
Yes, in the states where it is offered, the HiSET earns a state-recognized high school equivalency diploma that is legally equivalent to a traditional diploma — accepted by employers, colleges, and the military. However, since Alabama does not offer the HiSET, this is relevant only if you are considering moving to a state that does offer it, such as Maine, Iowa, or New Hampshire. In Alabama, the GED serves this same function.
How do I get my GED in Alabama?
Create a free account at ged.com, select Alabama as your testing state, and schedule your first subject test at $36 per subject ($144 total). If you are 16 or 17, gather your required notarized documentation first. For online testing, take the GED Ready practice test for each subject before scheduling. Free prep classes are available at all Alabama community colleges — find yours at accs.edu/adult-education/adult-ed-providers/. The ACCS See4Free program may cover your exam fees if you pass the GED Ready practice test.
Can you get a GED online for free?
The exam itself costs $36 per subject regardless of format, but many Alabama residents pay nothing through the ACCS See4Free program (pass the GED Ready practice test, and ACCS covers your exam fees) or through WIOA workforce funding for income-eligible adults. Free online prep resources are available through Khan Academy, GED.com’s free test previews, and the GED Mobile App. The GED Ready official practice test costs approximately $6 per subject and is the most accurate preparation tool available.
Can I take the GED test online at home in Alabama?
Yes, with conditions. You must first take and pass the GED Ready practice test, scoring ‘green’ (Likely to Pass) for each subject you want to test online. You need a computer with a webcam, a reliable internet connection, and a quiet, private space. Students under 18 also require a parent or guardian to be physically present during the pre-test check-in for online exams. The cost is $36 per subject online, with no discounted retakes available.
How long is the Alabama GED test?
The four GED subjects together take approximately 7 hours of testing time: Reasoning Through Language Arts takes 150 minutes (2.5 hours, including a 10-minute break), Mathematical Reasoning takes 115 minutes (~2 hours), Science takes 90 minutes (1.5 hours), and Social Studies takes 90 minutes (1.5 hours). You do not need to take all four subjects in one day — you can spread them across multiple sessions and days, taking each subject when you feel prepared.
Alabama HiSET Alternative: Final Thoughts
If you came here looking for an Alabama HiSET alternative, you now have a complete, authoritative picture: the GED is Alabama’s only high school equivalency exam, and it is a strong, nationally respected credential that opens real doors. The HiSET is simply not offered here — and that is not a disadvantage, because the GED is equally accepted everywhere that matters.
Whether your goal is a better job, college admission, military service, or personal achievement, Alabama’s GED system — backed by free prep classes at every community college in the state, the ACCS See4Free program, and multiple diploma pathways — gives you everything you need to succeed.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. Create a free GED account at ged.com and select Alabama 2. Take a free practice test to measure your starting point at ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html 3. Contact your nearest free Adult Education program: accs.edu/adult-education/adult-ed-providers/ 4. If you attended an Alabama public HS and left with 10+ credits, ask about the Diploma Option (HSDO) instead 5. Ask about the ACCS See4Free program — pass the GED Ready practice test, and they may cover your exam fees 6. Schedule your first subject test when you consistently score ‘green’ on GED Ready Alabama Adult Education (ACCS): [email protected] | (334) 293-4567 GED Technical Support: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) Coastal Alabama Community College Adult Ed: (800) 381-3722 |