Choosing between HiSET or GED can feel overwhelming when you’re planning your college journey. Both high school equivalency exams serve as accredited high school diploma alternatives, but understanding how colleges view them is crucial for your future.
Whether you’re a working adult or someone who didn’t complete traditional high school, Prepsaret offers comprehensive prep materials to help you succeed on either exam and move forward with confidence.
How Colleges View HiSET and GED
Most institutions view both credentials the same. They are nationally recognized accredited high school diploma alternatives and accepted by colleges across the United States. When considering do universities accept HiSET? or is HiSET accepted by colleges?, the answer is yes, both credentials meet identical national standards.
The HiSET acceptance rate mirrors the GED acceptance rate because each exam is an approved high school equivalency assessment. This is why questions like is HiSET accepted by colleges matter less than understanding individual admission policies.
What Shapes College Acceptance for HiSET and GED Decisions?
Here’s what shapes college acceptance HiSET and GED decisions:
- Most four-year universities accept both credentials with no stated preference
- Community college requirements generally list high school diploma or equivalent
- Admissions committees focus more on SAT/ACT scores, GPA, or prerequisites than which exam you took
- Equivalency test recognition is identical for both credentials when properly administered and scored
Note: Colleges rarely distinguish between HiSET and GED. What matters is demonstrating academic readiness through a recognized equivalency program.
HiSET vs GED for College: Which Credential Fits Your Goals?
When comparing HiSET vs GED for college, it helps to focus on the testing experience rather than acceptance, both function as an adult education credential and are widely recognized.
Key HiSET vs GED differences include:
- Test format: HiSET offers paper-based and computer-based options, while the GED is fully computer-based
- Retake policies: HiSET typically provides more flexible retake options
- Scoring: GED uses a 100–200 scale; HiSET uses a 1–20 scale
- Subject structure: Both cover similar content with slightly different organization
When evaluating GED or HiSET for college admissions, remember that HiSET college equivalency and GED college equivalency are viewed the same by admissions committees. For standardized testing for college entrance, most colleges require SAT or ACT scores regardless of which exam you completed.
Both exams offer equal adult education credential value. Choose the test format and structure you prefer, based on your confidence and state availability.
Read more: Is HiSET Harder than GED?
College Requirements: Do Colleges Prefer HiSET or GED?
The vast majority of admissions offices report no preference, both credentials meet the same standards.
College Requirements and Admissions Policies
College requirements GED applicants face are identical to those for HiSET graduates. Most admission pages state high school diploma or equivalent, which includes both exams. For community college requirements, acceptance is almost universal, making these schools a common entry point for college enrollment with HiSET or GED holders.
How Universities Evaluate Applicants
Four-year schools follow similar university admission policies, where the credential simply verifies completion of a high-school-level education. What matters more are GPA, coursework, SAT/ACT scores, essays, and recommendations, not which exam you chose.
Ultimately, the question do colleges prefer HiSET or GED is not a deciding factor. Both credentials satisfy admissions criteria equally, and neither provides an advantage or disadvantage in the applicant pool.
Related post: Can You Go to College Without a High School Diploma or GED?
State-by-State Considerations: Do Colleges Prefer HiSET or GED?
While colleges nationwide treat both credentials equally, availability varies by state. Questions like do colleges prefer HiSET or GED in California usually reflect testing options, not college preference.
HiSET vs GED California availability shows both are accepted statewide. In HiSET Minnesota, students have access to both exams, and institutions treat them the same. Online discussions, such as do colleges prefer HiSET or GED Reddit and HiSET vs GED Reddit, show that concerns come from confusion, not actual bias.
What to Consider by State
- Which exam your state offers
- Testing center access
- Cost differences
- Prep resource availability
Understanding that both are accredited high school diploma alternatives lets you choose based on convenience, not preference. Prepsaret supports both paths with state-specific prep tools.
Is HiSET Harder than GED?
This depends entirely on your strengths and testing preferences. Neither exam is objectively easier, they cover similar content but present it differently
Key Differences Between HiSET and GED Exam Formats
Test-takers often report:
- HiSET math feels more straightforward for those who prefer traditional problem formats
- GED essay prompts benefit students who enjoy analytical writing
- HiSET’s paper-based option helps those uncomfortable with computer testing
- GED’s shorter overall testing time appeals to students who prefer intensive sessions
Using a HiSET practice test from Prepsaret helps you measure readiness and identify weak areas. GED practice tests provide the same insight for that format.
How to Choose the Easier Exam
The easier exam is the one that aligns with your:
- Learning style
- Subject strengths
- Available study time
- Comfort with technology
Rather than searching for the easier option, focus on preparation. Both exams are passable with dedicated study and lead to the same opportunities for college enrollment with HiSET or GED credentials.
Prepsaret provides full-length practice exams and targeted study resources to support whichever path you choose.
How Do Colleges Verify High School Equivalency?
Colleges verify accredited high school diploma alternatives through official transcripts sent directly from the testing agency. When you pass the HiSET or GED, your credential is recorded with your state’s education department, ensuring valid equivalency test recognition.
The verification process typically requires:
- Requesting official transcripts from the testing service
- Submitting scores as part of your college application
- Providing state-issued certificates or diplomas
- Meeting with admissions counselors if additional documentation is needed
Your adult education credential carries a unique identifier that colleges can verify for authenticity. This prevents fraud and ensures that all applicants meet legitimate educational standards.
For college enrollment with HiSET or GED credentials, you’ll:
- Request official score transcripts from the testing agency
- Pay any applicable transcript fees
- Provide the college’s information for direct submission
- Follow up to ensure the college received your scores
This process is standardized across institutions, making the transition from equivalency exam to college enrollment seamless.
Related post: Colleges That Accept the GED Credential
Can You Go to College With a HiSET Diploma?
Yes. The HiSET functions the same as the GED for college enrollment with HiSET purposes. College acceptance HiSET outcomes mirror those of GED recipients and traditional diploma holders. With a HiSET, you can access:
- Community colleges
- Four-year public universities
- Private colleges
- Technical and vocational programs
- Online degree programs
The HiSET satisfies the high school diploma or equivalent requirement found in nearly all admission policies.
For college enrollment with HiSET, you’ll follow the standard application process:
- Submit admission forms
- Provide SAT/ACT scores if required
- Submit letters of recommendation
- Write personal statements
- Apply for financial aid through FAFSA
Your HiSET credential fully supports your higher education goals, just as effectively as any other recognized equivalency.
Do Colleges Prefer HiSET or GED?: FAQs
Do Community Colleges Prefer the GED Over the HiSET?
No, community colleges don't prefer one credential over the other. Community college requirements typically state high school diploma or equivalent, which includes both HiSET and GED. Both credentials provide equal access to community college programs nationwide.
What Colleges Accept the HiSET?
Virtually all accredited colleges and universities accept the HiSET. This includes community colleges, four-year public universities, private institutions, and online programs. The HiSET is recognized nationwide as a legitimate adult education credential equivalent to a high school diploma.
Is the GED More Recognized Than the HiSET?
No, both credentials have equal recognition. While the GED has been available longer and may have more name recognition, the HiSET acceptance rate at colleges matches that of the GED. Both exams meet the same educational standards and are equally valid for college admission.
Can You Go to University With a HiSET?
Yes, you can attend university with a HiSET credential. Four-year universities accept the HiSET just as they accept the GED and traditional diplomas. University admission policies treat all state-recognized equivalency test recognition credentials equally in their admission processes.
Does the HiSET Qualify You for Federal Student Aid?
Yes, holding a HiSET credential qualifies you for federal student aid. When completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), HiSET holders select "high school diploma or equivalent," making them eligible for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Which Is Easier, HiSET or GED, for College-Bound Students?
Neither exam is objectively easier, it depends on individual strengths. The HiSET vs GED differences include test format, scoring systems, and question styles. The best approach is taking a HiSET practice test and GED practice test to determine which format suits you better.
What Are the Differences Between HiSET and GED for College Admissions?
For college admissions purposes, there are no meaningful differences. Both credentials satisfy the high school diploma or equivalent requirement. The HiSET vs GED for college decision should be based on testing format preference and state availability, not on college acceptance differences.
Do Colleges Prefer HiSET or GED?: Conclusion
The answer to do colleges prefer HiSET or GED is simple, they treat both equally. Whether you choose the GED or HiSET for college admissions depends on state availability and your preferred testing format.
Both credentials meet admission standards nationwide, and your overall application matters far more than the exam you select. Prepare well, stay consistent, and choose the option that supports your success. Prepsaret can help you get there.