Is the HiSET Still Available in Connecticut? No. Connecticut no longer offers the HiSET exam. The GED is the only state-approved standardized high school equivalency test in Connecticut, administered under the authority of the Connecticut State Department of Education. The credential earned is called the Connecticut State High School Diploma.
Connecticut has transitioned fully to the GED as its equivalency pathway. The program is administered by GED Administrator Sabrina Mancini at the Connecticut State Department of Education, located at 450 Columbus Boulevard, Suite 508, Hartford, CT 06103.
Connecticut residents may contact the office at (860) 807-2111 or [email protected] for all GED-related questions.
Unlike many states, Connecticut has structured its GED program to be effectively free for most test-takers — at $0 per subject with only a $13 registration fee. This, combined with a statewide network of free adult education programs, makes Connecticut one of the most accessible states for earning a high school equivalency credential.
Connecticut GED Official Overview
Connecticut GED At-a-Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Official credential name | Connecticut State High School Diploma |
| Issued by | Connecticut State Department of Education |
| GED Administrator | Sabrina Mancini | [email protected] | (860) 807-2111 |
| GED Office address | 450 Columbus Blvd, Suite 508, Hartford, CT 06103 |
| GED Office email / phone | [email protected] | (860) 807-2110 or (860) 807-2111 |
| Number of subjects | 4 (plus a GED Ready practice test required before each subject) |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 |
| Standard minimum age | 19 years old (17-18 with documentation) |
| Residency requirement | YES — must be a Connecticut resident |
| Cost per subject (in-person) | $0 per subject — Connecticut covers testing costs |
| Registration fee | $13 (covers all subjects + cost of diploma; waived for veterans and test-takers under 21) |
| GED Ready required? | YES — required before taking the official test at a testing center |
| Score availability | Within 3 hours of completing each subject (occasionally next-day for RLA, Science, Social Studies) |
| Languages | English and Spanish; you may combine both languages to earn your credential |
| Online testing | $36 per subject (online testing available but not $0 — see Section 7) |
Connecticut GED Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility rules come directly from the Connecticut State Department of Education (portal.ct.gov/SDE) and the official GED policy at ged.com/policies/connecticut.html. Connecticut’s eligibility rules are more nuanced than most states, particularly for younger test-takers.
Standard Age Requirements: 19 and Older
- Must be 19 years of age or older (standard minimum age in CT — higher than most states)
- Must be a Connecticut resident — proof of residency required
- Must not currently be enrolled in school
- Must not have already graduated from high school
- Must take the GED Ready practice test before scheduling the official GED test
- Individuals with diplomas from unaccredited high schools OR secondary diplomas from outside the US and Canada are eligible if they meet all other requirements
Test-Takers Age 17
17-year-olds may test under Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-5(a) if they submit ONE of the following:
- Documentation of official withdrawal from a Connecticut school for at least six months
- A letter from the last high school attended stating that the class they entered ninth grade (or would have entered) has already graduated
- An official withdrawal form with a parent or guardian signature, including an attestation from a guidance counselor or school administrator
If homeschooled at age 17: a parent or guardian must obtain documentation from the local school district acknowledging their original intent to homeschool, then contact the CT GED office to request a Homeschooling Attestation Form signed by the Connecticut GED Administrator. Note: The Attestation Form cannot be used to enroll in adult education classes.
Test-Takers Age 18
18-year-olds must submit documentation that they have been officially withdrawn from a Connecticut school — without the six-month wait required for 17-year-olds.
Proving Connecticut Residency Full ID Guide
Connecticut requires both identity verification AND proof of residency. During registration, your adult education program must validate both. On test day at a Pearson VUE Testing Center, only photo ID is verified.
If you have a valid CT photo ID: A current Connecticut Driver’s License, CT Learner’s Permit, or CT Non-Driver Photo ID satisfies both identity and residency. Note: CT Driver’s License (both verified and non-verified) is acceptable. The Temporary Paper Card (TPC) is only accepted with the expiring license or ID. Municipal city ID cards cannot be used.
If you do NOT have a CT photo ID, you need: (a) a current government-issued photo ID showing name, DOB, signature, expiration date, and photo — such as a passport, out-of-state driver’s license, military ID, alien registration card, or Matricula Consular; AND (b) a separate proof of Connecticut residency document showing your name and CT address, dated within 90 days, such as:
- Bill from a bank, utility company, credit card company, doctor, or hospital
- Bank statement or transaction receipt
- Pre-printed pay stub showing employer’s name and address
- Property or excise tax bill (or Social Security/pension annual statement — within 12 months)
- Medicaid or Medicare benefit statement
- Current valid homeowner’s, renter’s, or motor vehicle insurance card/policy (within 12 months)
- Current valid Connecticut motor vehicle registration
- Connecticut voter registration card
- Residential mortgage, lease, or rental contract signed by all parties (within 12 months)
| Important: Name and Address Must Match
The name and address on your identification must match the name and address used for registration. Ensure your GED.com account information is current before test day. A post office box is NOT acceptable as a proof of Connecticut residency address. |
Connecticut GED Cost 2026 Fee Guide
| Connecticut GED Is Effectively Free for Most Test-Takers
Connecticut charges $0 per subject for the GED test at a test center. The only fee is a $13 registration fee that covers all four subjects AND the cost of your Connecticut State High School Diploma. This is one of the most affordable GED programs in the United States. Veterans and test-takers under age 21 are exempt from even the $13 fee. |
Fee Breakdown
| Fee Item | Amount / Detail |
| Per GED subject — In-Person (Test Center) | $0.00 — Connecticut covers testing costs |
| Registration fee (one-time, covers all 4 subjects + diploma) | $13.00 for adults 21+ who are non-veterans |
| Registration fee — Veterans | $0.00 — waived |
| Registration fee — Test-takers under 21 | $0.00 — waived |
| Total cost (in-person, non-veteran adult 21+) | $13.00 for all 4 subjects |
| Total cost (in-person, veterans or under 21) | $0.00 — completely free |
| Online GED testing | $36 per subject (Connecticut’s $0 subsidy does NOT apply online) |
| Online GED total (4 subjects) | $144.00 |
| Discounted retake (in-person) | GED Testing Service waives $26; Connecticut charges NO additional fee |
| Online retake | $36 per subject; no discounted retakes for online |
| Retake wait period (in-person) | 60-day mandatory wait; maximum 3 retakes per subject per calendar year |
| Online retake wait period | 60 days after 2nd online attempt on same subject |
| No-show policy | The State of Connecticut is charged for no-shows; cancel/reschedule at least 24 hours in advance |
| Retake Override Process
Connecticut has a stricter retake policy than most states — a mandatory 60-day wait with a maximum of 3 attempts per subject per year. If you need an override (e.g., you have a job offer contingent on your diploma), send an override request to [email protected] with supporting documentation (promise of employment or school acceptance letter). All overrides also require a new GED Ready test with a green (Likely to Pass) score for that specific subject. |
Connecticut GED Unique Rules You Must Know
Connecticut has several requirements that differ significantly from the national GED standard. Missing any of these will prevent you from scheduling your test or receiving your diploma.
GED Ready Practice Test REQUIRED Before Every Subject (In-Person)
Connecticut requires all in-person test-takers to take the GED Ready practice test before scheduling any official GED subject test. This applies even to adults testing in-person — unlike most states where the GED Ready is only required for online testing.
- The GED Ready must be taken at an approved adult education center or GED test center
- You may take one subject of the GED Ready and then immediately take that same subject of the official GED upon approval
- For online testing: you must score green (Likely to Pass) on the GED Ready before scheduling
- East Hartford Adult Education provides free GED Ready practice test vouchers to enrolled students
Must Take ALL Sub-Tests Before Retaking a Failed Subject
Connecticut requires test-takers to take all four sub-tests before they are allowed to retest a failed subject area. This means you cannot simply retake one failed subject immediately — you must attempt all four first.
Day-of-Test Rules
- You will receive a 10-minute scheduled break between each module — unscheduled breaks are not allowed and your results may be deemed invalid, requiring you to retake the test.
- Cell phones are strictly forbidden in the testing room — if found with a cell phone during testing, you will be escorted out and your test will not be scored.
- Personal items (handbags, backpacks, wallets, keys) are not allowed in the testing room; limited secure storage is available.
- You will be given an erasable noteboard and access to an on-screen calculator for certain subjects.
- The 24-hour cancellation rule: you must cancel or reschedule online at least 24 hours before your test date to avoid a no-show charge
The Four GED Tests in Connecticut
The Connecticut GED consists of four subject tests. You can take them in any order — and in Connecticut you can take all subjects in the same day if the testing center hours accommodate it.
GED Subject Overview
| Subject | Time Limit | Content and Format |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 min (inc. 10-min break) | Reading comprehension, grammar, writing; 45-min Extended Response essay using source texts |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis; calculator Part 2; formula sheet provided |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life, physical, earth/space science; data interpretation from graphs, charts, and tables |
| Social Studies | 90 minutes | U.S. history, civics, economics, geography; analysis of maps, charts, primary source documents |
Connecticut GED Score Levels
| Score Range | What It Means |
| Below Passing | Below 145 — must retake; score report identifies areas to improve; 60-day wait required in CT |
| Passing (CT State HS Diploma eligible) | 145 to 164 — earns Connecticut State High School Diploma |
| GED College Ready | 165 to 174 — eligible to enter college-level courses without remedial placement testing |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175 to 200 — may earn college credit at participating Connecticut institutions |
| Score availability | Within 3 hours of completing each subject (occasionally next-day for RLA, Science, Social Studies) |
Online GED Testing in Connecticut
Yes, Connecticut allows online GED testing — but with a critical difference from in-person testing: online testing costs $36 per subject, not $0. Connecticut’s state subsidy only applies to in-person testing at authorized test centers.
Online vs. In-Person in Connecticut
| Feature | In-Person (Test Center) | Online (Remote Proctored) |
| Cost per subject | $0 (+ $13 one-time registration) | $36 per subject |
| Total 4 subjects (non-veteran 21+) | $13 total | $144 total |
| GED Ready required? | Yes — at approved center | Yes — must score green |
| Retake wait period | 60 days; max 3/year | 60 days after 2nd attempt |
| Discounted retake | Yes — $0 additional fee | No — $36 each time |
| All subjects same day | Yes (if test center hours allow) | No — one at a time |
| No-show policy | 24-hour cancellation required | Cancel via online scheduler |
| Best for | Most CT residents — far lower cost | No nearby test center; limited transport |
For the vast majority of Connecticut residents, in-person testing at $0 per subject is strongly preferred over the $36-per-subject online option. Online testing should be reserved for those with no accessible test center or significant transportation constraints.
Online Testing Requirements
- Must take and pass GED Ready with a green (Likely to Pass) score before scheduling each online subject
- Windows or Mac computer with webcam — tablets and phones not accepted
- Stable broadband internet connection
- Quiet, private space with no other people present
- Under-18 test-takers: parent or guardian must be present at pre-test check-in; absence = session revoked
How to Get Your GED in Connecticut: Step-by-Step
The official process combines steps at a Connecticut adult education program AND at GED.com. Both are required. All GED scheduling is done at GED.com — walk-in registration at test centers is not available.
- Find and enroll in your nearest Connecticut Adult Education program — contact the program to begin (see Section 10 for regional programs). Adult education staff will guide you through the registration process and validate your residency.
- Gather your identification and residency documents: CT Driver’s License, Learner’s Permit, or Non-Driver Photo ID (satisfies both ID and residency); OR a government-issued photo ID PLUS a separate Connecticut residency document dated within 90 days.
- If you are 17 or 18: obtain and submit withdrawal documentation from your last CT school or, if homeschooled, contact [email protected] to request a Homeschooling Attestation Form.
- Your adult education program validates your ID and residency during registration; final processing takes 24-72 hours after your visit — you will receive an email that you have been released for scheduling. If no email within 5 days, contact GED Testing Service.
- Create a free account at GED.com and select Connecticut as your testing state; your legal name must match your ID exactly.
- Take the GED Ready practice test for each subject you plan to test — required in Connecticut before scheduling. For in-person testing, take it at an approved center. For online testing, you must score green.
- Schedule your subject test(s) at GED.com; pay $13 registration fee if you are a non-veteran age 21 or older (the $0-per-subject cost is automatically applied for in-person tests).
- Take your test — arrive with your CT photo ID, leave all personal items and phones outside. Receive scores within approximately 3 hours of completing each subject.
- After passing all four subjects, download your free electronic Connecticut State High School Diploma and transcript immediately from your GED.com account email.
Connecticut GED Transcript Request
After passing all four GED subjects, here is how to obtain your Connecticut State High School Diploma and transcript.
Electronic Diploma and Transcript (Automatic)
- After passing all four subjects, download links are emailed to the address associated with your GED.com account
- PDFs are verified by GED Testing Service and Parchment using Blue Ribbon Security — each time the document is opened, its authenticity is confirmed.
- Download immediately — links are only available for a limited time
Official Connecticut GED Transcript Request
| Service | Details / How to Access |
| Official transcript request form | portal.ct.gov/SDE/Adult-Ed/GED/Download-the-GED-transcript-request-form — fill out and return to CT State Department of Education |
| Cost | No fee — transcript requests are FREE in Connecticut |
| Processing time | Within 10 business days of receiving the completed request |
| What is issued | Connecticut does NOT issue duplicate diplomas — all individuals receive an Official GED Transcript as verification |
| Requests to colleges/employers | Fill out the transcript request form and indicate the institution; CSDE processes and sends directly |
| Contact for transcript questions | GED Office: 450 Columbus Blvd, Suite 508, Hartford, CT 06103 | [email protected] | (860) 807-2110 |
| Online registration questions | Pearson VUE: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) | Mon-Fri 7am-7pm CST |
| Connecticut Does Not Issue Duplicate Diplomas
If you need to verify your Connecticut State High School Diploma, you must request an Official GED Transcript from the CT State Department of Education. The transcript serves as the official verification document. There is no fee for this service. |
Free CT Adult Education Programs
Connecticut offers free GED preparation through a statewide network of adult education programs administered by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CT Adult Education, also referred to as CT Adult Education Certification programs). These are available across the state, free of charge to Connecticut residents.
Adult Education Programs in Connecticut — Key Providers
| Program / Region | Details and Contact |
| New Britain Adult Education (NBAE) — Central CT | GED prep classes covering reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. Registration contact: Joycelyn Jackman | (860) 229-6106 | 272 Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051. GED testing offered at site. Free GED Ready practice test vouchers provided to enrolled students. |
| VRABE Regional Adult Based Education — Northeast/Eastern CT | Serves 14 towns including Vernon, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Colchester, East Windsor, Storrs. Day and evening classes. Locations: Rockville High School (day + evening), Griswold High School, Lutheran Church of St. Mark (Glastonbury), East Windsor HS, E.O. Smith HS (Storrs), William Johnston MS (Colchester), Wethersfield HS. Pre-registration required at vrabe.com | (860) 870-6060. |
| East Hartford Adult and Continuing Education — Hartford Region | GED prep in English and Spanish; classes mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Free GED Ready practice test vouchers for enrolled students. GED testing at East Hartford High School most Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Also offers Credit Diploma Program and NEDP. Contact: (860) 622-5355 | 869 Forbes Street, East Hartford, CT 06118. |
| New Haven Adult Education (NHAEC) — New Haven Region | GED preparation and adult education programs in the greater New Haven area. Contact via nhaec.org for current program details and enrollment. |
| Goodwin University — East Hartford (College-Level Support) | Goodwin University’s High School Equivalency Program supports adult learners pursuing GED credentials who want to transition directly into higher education. Located in East Hartford; contact goodwin.edu for HSE program details. |
| Statewide CT Adult Education Programs | Connecticut has adult education programs in virtually every city and town. Find your nearest program through the CT State Department of Education: portal.ct.gov/SDE/Adult-Ed/Adult-Education-Instructional-Programs or call (860) 807-2110. |
Three Pathways to a High School Diploma in Connecticut
Connecticut adult education programs offer three distinct pathways to earn a high school diploma credential. The GED is the most widely recognized, but two other options — the Credit Diploma Program and the National External Diploma Program — may be better fits for certain learners.
| Criteria | GED Pathway | Credit Diploma Program (CDP) | National External Diploma Program (NEDP) |
| Type of credential | Connecticut State High School Diploma (via GED) | High School Diploma from your local CT school district | High School Diploma via competency assessment |
| Format | 4 standardized computer-based exams | Online coursework completing remaining HS credits | Competency-based assessment with an advisor |
| Time to complete | Weeks to months (with prep) | Months to over a year (varies by credits needed) | Flexible; typically several months |
| Cost | $13 ($0 for veterans/under 21) | Free through adult education programs | Free through adult education programs |
| Who it’s best for | Adults wanting fastest, most recognized credential | Adults with prior HS credits to transfer | Adults with work/life experience to demonstrate skills |
| Availability | Statewide — all CT adult ed programs | Select CT adult ed programs (e.g., East Hartford, VRABE) | Select CT adult ed programs (e.g., VRABE, East Hartford) |
| Requires prep test? | Yes — GED Ready required before each subject | No — coursework-based | No — assessment-based |
| Recognition | Nationally and internationally recognized | Recognized as CT HS diploma | Recognized as CT HS diploma |
Credit Diploma Program (CDP)
The CDP allows adults to transfer credits earned at a Connecticut high school toward earning a diploma, then complete remaining credits through virtual or in-person coursework. Programs typically require 25 credits for a diploma. East Hartford Adult Education requires completing virtual high school classes, offers open enrollment year-round, and recognizes credits earned for work and military history. Contact your local adult education program for current enrollment details.
National External Diploma Program (NEDP)
The NEDP is a competency-based, largely remote program where students work individually with an assessor to demonstrate high school-level mastery of skills through a computer-based program. Student/advisor sessions can take place online with flexible scheduling, and tutoring is available in math, reading, and writing. Available at VRABE Regional Adult Based Education, East Hartford Adult Education, and select other programs. Visit casas.org/nedp for national information.
HiSET vs. GED vs. TASC
Many Connecticut residents research the differences between GED, HiSET, and TASC before beginning their equivalency journey. Here is the complete comparison, with Connecticut-specific context.
| Feature | GED (Connecticut) | HiSET | TASC |
| Available in CT | YES | NO — discontinued in CT | NO — discontinued nationally 2022 |
| Number of subjects | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| CT In-Person cost | $13 total (non-veteran 21+) | N/A | N/A |
| CT Online cost | $36/subject = $144 | N/A | N/A |
| Passing score | 145/200 per subject | 8/20 per subject | 500/800 (when active) |
| Essay required? | Yes — 45-min Extended Response | Yes — Writing essay | Yes — Writing essay |
| Calculator allowed? | Part 2 of Math; formula sheet | No calc Part 1; allowed Part 2 | Part 2 only |
| Score tiers | Pass/College Ready/College Ready + Credit | Pass only | Pass only |
| Online testing | Yes — $36/subject | Yes (where offered) | N/A — discontinued |
| GED Ready required? | YES — before every subject in CT | No (in most states) | N/A |
| National acceptance | Widely accepted | ~20 states accept it | Discontinued — not accepted |
| CT-specific notes | Only option in CT; effectively free | Not offered in CT | Discontinued in 2022 nationally |
TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) was discontinued nationally by Data Recognition Corporation in 2022. Any states that previously used TASC have since transitioned to GED or HiSET. Connecticut now uses only the GED.
What Is the Difference Between HSE and HiSET?
These terms are often confused, particularly in Connecticut, where the state now exclusively uses the GED. Here is the authoritative explanation:
| Term | What It Means |
| HSE (High School Equivalency) | A general category — any state-issued credential that is the legal equivalent of a traditional high school diploma. All GED and HiSET credentials are types of HSE credentials. In Connecticut, the HSE credential is specifically called the Connecticut State High School Diploma, earned by passing the GED. |
| GED (General Educational Development) | A specific brand of 4-subject tests by GED Testing Service LLC. In Connecticut, passing the GED earns you the Connecticut State High School Diploma. The GED is the test; the HSE/diploma is the credential you receive. |
| HiSET | A different brand of 5-subject tests by PSI Services LLC. HiSET is offered in approximately 20 states but NOT in Connecticut. Taking HiSET would not earn you a Connecticut credential. |
| Which is better? | For Connecticut residents, there is no choice — the GED is the only option. Both GED and HiSET lead to an HSE credential in their respective states; both are accepted by employers, colleges, and the military. Connecticut’s GED program is particularly advantageous because the test is essentially free. |
Is a HiSET Easier Than a GED?
This is one of the most frequently searched questions about high school equivalency exams. For Connecticut residents, the comparison is moot since HiSET is unavailable — but here is the definitive answer for those considering options nationally or researching before relocating:
| Dimension | GED | HiSET |
| Math difficulty | GED — harder; heavy algebraic reasoning, functions, data interpretation; Part 1 is calculator-free | HiSET — slightly lower threshold (8/20 vs. 145/200); broader coverage with less emphasis on higher algebra |
| Number of subjects | GED — 4 subjects; less to study but each test is comprehensive | HiSET — 5 subjects; more to cover but minimum passing thresholds are lower per subject |
| Essay requirement | GED — 45-minute Extended Response; must argue using provided texts; scored more rigorously | HiSET — Writing essay; scored on a 6-point scale; minimum 2/6 for standard HSE (vs. 4/6 for CPP) |
| Score advantage | GED — offers College Ready (165-174) and College Ready + Credit (175-200) tiers; can earn college credit | HiSET — pass/fail only; no college credit tier |
| Overall verdict | Comparable difficulty; GED slightly harder in math; HiSET covers more subjects. In Connecticut, only the GED is available — focused preparation makes it very achievable. |
How Long Does It Take to Get a GED in Connecticut?
Your timeline depends entirely on your starting academic level and how consistently you study. GED.com states the average preparation time is 2 to 3 months. Here is a realistic breakdown for Connecticut test-takers:
| Learner Profile | Estimated Timeline |
| Strong academic background (limited time away from school) | 2 to 6 weeks with focused daily study; take GED Ready early to confirm readiness |
| Average learner (some time away from school) | 1 to 3 months with structured study through adult education programs |
| Significant gaps (many years away from academics) | 3 to 6 months; enroll in adult education classes for systematic preparation across all four subjects |
| Connecticut-specific factor | Connecticut requires the GED Ready before each subject — this adds 1-2 weeks per subject if not already scoring in the green zone. Build this into your timeline. |
| Connecticut retake policy factor | The 60-day mandatory wait between retakes means failing a subject adds at least 2 months to your overall timeline. Thorough preparation before your first attempt is especially important in CT. |
The single most impactful thing you can do to minimize your timeline in Connecticut is to enroll in a free adult education program and use their free GED Ready practice test vouchers (offered at East Hartford, New Britain, and other programs). Preparing thoroughly for the GED Ready saves time by ensuring you score green and can schedule your real test without delay.
How to Pass the Connecticut GED Fast
30-Day Connecticut GED Study Plan
| Week | Focus and Activities |
| Week 1: Enroll and assess | Find and contact your nearest CT adult education program. Take free GED test previews at ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html. Identify your 1-2 weakest subjects. If you are 17-18, gather your withdrawal documentation this week. |
| Week 2: Math and RLA foundation | Focus 70% of study time on Mathematical Reasoning — the most commonly failed GED subject nationally. Study algebra, linear equations, and data graph reading. Begin daily 20-minute timed reading practice for RLA. |
| Week 3: Full subject rotation + timed tests | Take one full-length practice test per subject. Fix weak areas immediately. Practice writing one complete 45-minute Extended Response essay under timed conditions. |
| Week 4: GED Ready and scheduling | Take the GED Ready (required before scheduling in CT) for your first target subject. Score green = schedule your $0 in-person GED test. Score yellow = 1-2 more weeks of study, then retake the GED Ready. Remember: CT’s 60-day retake wait makes thorough preparation especially important. |
Subject-Specific Connecticut GED Tips
- Mathematical Reasoning: A formula sheet is provided during the exam — practice using the formulas rather than memorizing them. Part 1 has no calculator; practice arithmetic, fractions, and percentages without any device daily. Work through at least 25 word problems before testing.
- RLA Extended Response Essay: You have 45 minutes to write an argument-based essay using evidence from two source texts. Practice the 4-step process: (1) read both passages quickly, (2) identify the central argument of each, (3) outline your position with 2-3 text evidence points in 2 minutes, (4) write a 4-paragraph essay and proofread the last 5 minutes. Spelling, grammar, and organization all factor into your score.
- Science and Social Studies: Both tests require interpreting charts, graphs, maps, and primary source documents far more than memorizing facts. Practice analyzing an unfamiliar graph or table and answering 3-4 questions about it. Your adult education instructor can provide structured practice with real GED-style data questions.
Connecticut HiSET Alternative: FAQs
What is the difference between HSE and HiSET?
HSE (High School Equivalency) is the general term for any state-issued credential legally equivalent to a high school diploma. HiSET is a specific brand of 5-subject tests by PSI Services, offered in approximately 20 states. In Connecticut, HiSET is not available. The Connecticut HSE credential — called the Connecticut State High School Diploma — is earned by passing the GED test. GED is the test; the Connecticut State High School Diploma is the HSE credential you earn.
Can you get your GED online in CT?
Yes, but at $36 per subject rather than $0. Connecticut’s state subsidy only applies to in-person testing at authorized Pearson VUE test centers. For online testing, you must also take and pass the GED Ready practice test with a green (Likely to Pass) score for each subject before scheduling. Online testing requires a computer with webcam, stable internet, and a quiet private space. For most Connecticut residents, in-person testing is strongly preferred due to the significant cost difference ($0 vs. $144 for all four subjects).
Is a HiSET easier than a GED?
The two exams are roughly comparable in difficulty overall. GED Math is generally considered harder due to its emphasis on algebraic reasoning and data interpretation. HiSET covers 5 subjects (vs. GED’s 4) with lower minimum passing thresholds (8/20 vs. 145/200 per subject), which some find less daunting. However, GED offers College Ready score tiers that can earn college credit — a significant advantage HiSET does not have. For Connecticut residents, this comparison is academic: HiSET is not available in Connecticut.
What is the difference between GED, HiSET, and TASC?
All three are (or were) high school equivalency tests. GED (by GED Testing Service) has 4 subjects, is computer-based, includes College Ready score tiers, and is the only option in Connecticut. HiSET (by PSI Services) has 5 subjects, offers paper-based testing options, and is active in approximately 20 states. TASC (by Data Recognition Corporation) had 5 subjects and was discontinued nationally in 2022. Connecticut uses only the GED; the other two are not available here.
How to get GED in Connecticut?
Start by finding your nearest Connecticut adult education program (portal.ct.gov/SDE/Adult-Ed/Adult-Education-Instructional-Programs or call (860) 807-2110). Gather your CT photo ID and residency documentation. If you are 17 or 18, obtain withdrawal documentation from your last Connecticut school. Create a free account at GED.com and select Connecticut. Complete the GED Ready practice test at an approved center for each subject. Pay the $13 registration fee (waived for veterans and under-21 test-takers) and schedule your subjects at $0 each. Pass all four and download your free Connecticut State High School Diploma.
How much does it cost to get your GED in Connecticut?
In-person testing costs $0 per subject. The only cost is a $13 one-time registration fee that covers all four subjects and your diploma — waived for veterans and test-takers under 21. If you take the test online, it costs $36 per subject ($144 total). Connecticut’s first discounted retake costs $0 additional (GED Testing Service waives $26 and Connecticut charges no extra fee). Note the 60-day mandatory wait and maximum 3-per-year retake limit — making thorough preparation before your first attempt especially important.
How long does it take to get a GED in Connecticut?
With focused preparation, 1 to 3 months is typical for average learners. Strong students with recent academic experience may pass individual subjects in 2 to 6 weeks. Connecticut’s GED Ready requirement (must be taken before each subject) and 60-day mandatory retake wait add time if you are not well-prepared before your first attempt. Enrolling in free adult education classes is the most effective way to minimize your total timeline.
What are the 4 tests for the GED?
The four GED subject tests are: (1) Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) — 150 minutes including a 10-minute break; reading comprehension, grammar, and a 45-minute argumentative essay; (2) Mathematical Reasoning — 115 minutes; arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis; formula sheet and Part 2 calculator provided; (3) Science — 90 minutes; life, physical, and earth/space science with heavy data interpretation; (4) Social Studies — 90 minutes; U.S. history, civics, economics, and geography with map and document analysis. In Connecticut, you can take all four in one day at a test center if the center’s hours allow.
Connecticut HiSET Alternative: Final Thoughts
Connecticut has built one of the most cost-effective GED programs in the United States. At $0 per subject with only a $13 registration fee for most adults — and $0 for veterans and those under 21 — the financial barrier is essentially removed. Combined with a statewide network of free adult education programs and three distinct pathways to a high school diploma, Connecticut residents have excellent options regardless of their learning style or prior academic background.
The most important Connecticut-specific considerations are: the GED Ready is required before every subject (plan for this), the 60-day mandatory retake wait means thorough preparation before your first attempt is critical, and online testing costs $36/subject instead of $0 — making in-person testing far preferable for most residents.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. Find your nearest free CT Adult Education program: portal.ct.gov/SDE/Adult-Ed/Adult-Education-Instructional-Programs or call (860) 807-2110 2. If you are 17-18: contact [email protected] to start the documentation process 3. Gather your CT photo ID and proof of residency (dated within 90 days) 4. Create your free GED account at GED.com and select Connecticut 5. Take the GED Ready practice test at an approved CT center for each subject (required before scheduling) 6. Pay the $13 registration fee (or $0 if a veteran or under 21) and schedule your $0 in-person subjects 7. Pass all 4 subjects and download your free Connecticut State High School Diploma immediately CT GED Administrator: Sabrina Mancini | [email protected] | (860) 807-2111 CT GED Office: 450 Columbus Blvd, Suite 508, Hartford, CT 06103 GED Technical Support / Registration: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) | Mon-Fri 7am-7pm CST Transcript requests: portal.ct.gov/SDE/Adult-Ed/GED/Download-the-GED-transcript-request-form (FREE) |