If you’re considering earning your high school equivalency diploma, one of your first questions might be: how much does the HiSET test cost? The cost of the HiSET test varies depending on your location and testing format.
Understanding these high school equivalency test cost helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
At Prepsaret, we help test-takers prepare with practice questions and answers that closely mirror the real exam, ensuring you pass on your first attempt and save money on retakes.
What Determines HiSET Test Cost?
The cost to get a high school equivalency diploma isn’t a one-size-fits-all number. Several factors influence what you’ll pay:
- State Policies: Each state sets its own HiSET pricing structure. Some states subsidize testing completely, while others charge the full ETS HiSET exam price.
- Testing Format: Whether you choose online or in-person testing affects the HiSET fee structure.
- Administrative Overhead: Local testing centers may add HiSET administrative fees to cover proctoring and facility costs.
The HiSET exam is administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), but your state determines the final price you’ll pay. This decentralized approach means costs can range from completely free to over $100 depending on your location.
National HiSET Test Cost Breakdown: What You Pay For
When you register for the HiSET, understanding the HiSET exam fees helps clarify where your money goes:
- Test Development Fees: These cover the creation and maintenance of the five subject tests (Language Arts—Reading, Language Arts—Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies)
- Scoring Services: Your tests are professionally scored by ETS
- Registration Platform: The HiSET registration fees include access to the online registration system
- Testing Center Operations: Test center fees cover proctoring, facilities, and technology
- State Administrative Costs: Some state testing fees help maintain testing infrastructure
Does the HiSET Test Have Additional Fees?
It depends. Some states include everything in one price, while others itemize costs separately. What are the HiSET testing fees for adults specifically? In most states, adults pay the same rates as younger test-takers, though some states offer special adult education programs with reduced or waived fees.
The base cost set by ETS for the complete HiSET battery is approximately $50-$75 in states that charge fees, but remember—your actual cost depends entirely on your state’s subsidy level.
HiSET Cost by Delivery Format (Online vs In-Person)
Your choice between online and in-person HiSET testing impacts the cost and convenience. Understanding the fee differences helps you plan your budget effectively.
HiSET Online Test Cost
Taking the HiSET remotely offers convenience, but how much does it cost to take the HiSET online? In states that offer remote testing:
- Base online testing typically costs $5-$15 per subtest
- Total for all five subtests ranges from $25-$75
- Some states waive online testing fees completely
- You’ll need a computer with webcam and reliable internet
HiSET In-Person Test Cost
Traditional testing center options have their own pricing:
- In-person costs generally range from $10-$20 per subtest
- Complete battery costs $50-$100 in fee-charging states
- Many states offer the first attempt free at official centers
Does the HiSET Test Cost More At a Testing Center?
Not necessarily. While some centers charge facility fees, many states actually subsidize in-person testing more heavily than online options. The key is checking with your specific state’s testing program.
Online vs In-Person HiSET Cost Comparison
- Online: More convenient, potentially lower cost, requires technology
- In-Person: Traditional format, often fully subsidized, no tech requirements
HiSET Test Cost by State: Detailed State-by-State Pricing Guide
The HiSET cost by state varies dramatically. Here’s a comprehensive HiSET test cost breakdown by state to help you understand how much does the HiSET exam cost in my state:
States Offering Free or Low-Cost HiSET Testing
California:
- How much does the HiSET test cost in California? The first attempt is FREE at official test centers
- HiSET requirements California include being at least 18 years old (or 17 with parental consent)
- Retakes cost $15 per subtest
- Both online and in-person options available
Missouri:
- First attempt FREE for Missouri residents
- Retakes cost $10.75 per subtest
- HiSET test Missouri programs offer extensive free prep resources
- HiSET Missouri requirements include age 16+ with proper documentation
New York:
- Completely FREE for all test-takers
- No limit on retakes
- Multiple testing centers statewide
Illinois:
- FREE first attempt
- $10 per subtest for retakes
- Adult education programs cover costs for qualifying students
States with Moderate HiSET Test Fees
New Jersey:
- $50 for complete battery
- $10 per individual subtest retake
- Some adult education centers offer vouchers
Tennessee:
- $50.75 for all five subtests
- Financial assistance available through adult education programs
Wyoming:
- $60 for complete test
- Limited free vouchers for qualifying low-income residents
States Not Offering HiSET
Not every state accepts the HiSET. States like Arizona, Delaware, and Florida use only the GED or TASC. Always verify your state’s accepted equivalency exams before preparing.
How Much Does the HiSET Test Cost Near Me?
Visit your state’s official HiSET website or contact your local adult education office. Many community colleges and libraries also provide information about where can I take the HiSET test and associated costs in your area.
GED vs HiSET Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheaper?
The GED vs HiSET cost comparison reveals significant differences. Is the HiSET cheaper than the GED? In most cases, yes.
GED Costs
- National base price: $36 per subject test ($144 total)
- States may add fees, bringing total to $150-$200
- Online proctoring adds $10-$20
- Practice tests cost extra
HiSET Costs
- Many states offer FREE first attempt
- Average cost in fee-charging states: $50-$75
- Often includes free practice materials
- Lower retake fees
Cost Comparison Table:
| Factor | GED | HiSET |
| Base Cost | $144 | $50-$75 (or FREE) |
| State Availability | All 50 States | 20+ states |
| Free First Attempt | Rare | Common |
| Retake Cost | $36 per subject | $10-$15 per subject |
In states offering both, the HiSET typically costs 50-70% less than the GED. However, check which test employers and colleges in your area accept before choosing based solely on price.
HiSET Retake Fees and Policies
Not everyone passes on the first attempt, making HiSET retake fees an important consideration. Here’s what you need to know about HiSET retake cost and policies:
HiSET Retake Fee Structure
- Most states charge $10-$15 per subtest retake
- California: $15 per subtest
- Missouri: $10.75 per subtest
- New York: FREE unlimited retakes
- You only retake subjects you didn’t pass
HiSET Retake Waiting Periods
- First retake: Usually no waiting period
- Second retake: Some states require 60-day wait
- Third retake: 60-90 day waiting period common
HiSET Passing Requirements
- Minimum score of 8 out of 20 on each subtest
- Minimum score of 2 out of 6 on the essay
- Must pass all five subtests to earn your diploma
Prepsaret provides practice questions and detailed answers that closely mirror the actual HiSET exam. Students who prepare thoroughly with Prepsaret typically pass on their first attempt, avoiding HiSET retake fees entirely.
Our comprehensive prep materials cover all five subjects and include full-length practice tests that simulate the real testing experience.
Cheapest Place to Take the HiSET Test
Looking for the cheapest place to take the HiSET test? The cost varies widely by state, but smart strategies can significantly reduce what you pay. Here are the best ways to save.
- Use Official State Testing Centers: State-funded locations often offer the lowest prices, and some even waive fees entirely. Many adult education centers provide free HiSET testing to eligible students. Community colleges may also offer subsidized rates.
- Inquire About Fee Waivers: Low-income test-takers frequently qualify for fee waivers. Adult education students may receive vouchers, while certain workforce programs can cover part or all HiSET exam fees.
- Avoid Third-Party Testing Centers: Independent testing centers sometimes add extra HiSET administrative fees or service charges. To avoid paying more, choose state-authorized centers and double-check the official HiSET site for approved locations.
- Take Advantage of First-Attempt Benefits:Many states offer free or deeply discounted first attempts. Preparing thoroughly and passing on your first try can save you significant retake costs.
- Use Free Prep Resources: State websites and local libraries provide free study materials. Prepsaret.com also offers comprehensive practice tests with real-style HiSET questions to help you pass the first time.
- Bundle Your Tests: Buying all five subtests as a bundle is usually cheaper. Individual subtests can add up quickly, so bundling helps cut overall costs.
HiSET Financial Assistance Resources
- Contact your local Adult Education and Literacy office
- Check with Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs
- Ask about TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) education benefits
- Inquire at community action agencies
HiSET Test Locations and State Examples
Understanding where to test—and how each state structures its options—helps you plan effectively.
Missouri HiSET Test Locations
Missouri offers numerous testing centers along with flexible scheduling and some of the most affordable pricing in the country.
Missouri HiSET Testing Centers Include:
- Adult education centers statewide
- Community colleges in major cities
- Public libraries in select counties
- Official Missouri HiSET test locations listed on the Missouri Department of Higher Education website
Missouri HiSET Costs and Policies:
- First full test: FREE
- Retakes: $10.75 per subtest
- Available in both online and in-person formats
HiSET Requirements in Missouri:
- Age 16+ (16–17 require parental consent)
- Not enrolled in high school
- Missouri residency preferred but not required
HiSET Scheduling and Availability:
- Year-round testing
- Online registration via the official HiSET portal
- Walk-ins available at select locations
Free HiSET Test Resources in Missouri:
- HiSET Missouri practice test materials provided on state websites
- Adult education classes statewide
- Free tutoring available in many testing centers
A strong advantage in Missouri is affordability, flexible scheduling, and extensive prep support.
California HiSET Test Locations
California provides one of the most accessible HiSET programs, with no-cost first attempts and broad testing availability.
HiSET Costs in California:
- First attempt: FREE at all official centers
- Retakes: $15 per subtest
- No hidden HiSET administrative fees
HiSET Requirements in California
HiSET requirements California include:
- Age 18+ (or 17 with required documentation)
- Not enrolled in a public K–12 program
- California residency preferred
HiSET Testing Formats Offered in California:
- In-person testing at adult schools and community colleges
- Remote online proctoring
- Paper-based and computer-based options
California’s combination of free first attempts and multiple testing formats makes it one of the most flexible locations nationwide.
Where Can I Take the HiSET Test?
Finding authorized HiSET centers is simple:
- Visit the official HiSET website.
- Click “Find a Test Center.”
- Enter your ZIP code.
- Filter by online or in-person options.
- Check availability, pricing, and required IDs.
- Register directly through the official portal.
Urban areas often have multiple testing centers, while rural regions may have fewer options—but many offer evening and weekend appointments for working adults.
How Much Does the HiSET Test Cost?: FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Take the HiSET Test?
The cost varies by state. Many states like California, Missouri, and New York offer the first attempt FREE. In states that charge fees, expect to pay $50-$75 for all five subtests. Retakes typically cost $10-$15 per subject.
Can I Take My HiSET Test at Home?
Yes, online proctored testing is available in many states. You'll need a computer with a webcam, microphone, reliable internet, and a quiet testing environment. Online testing costs are typically similar to or lower than in-person testing, though some states charge differently.
Can I Get My HiSET Online in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers online HiSET testing. The first complete test is FREE for Missouri residents, whether taken online or in-person. You must meet the same age and eligibility requirements as in-person testing and have the necessary technology for remote proctoring.
Is the HiSET Test Hard?
The difficulty is comparable to high school-level coursework. The test covers five subjects: Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies. With proper preparation using resources like Prepsaret, most test-takers can pass on their first attempt. The pass rate varies by state but typically ranges from 60-75%.
How Can I Do My GED for Free?
Free GED options include: qualifying for state fee waivers through low-income programs, enrolling in adult education programs that cover testing costs, checking with local workforce development offices, or applying through WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) programs. However, the HiSET offers more free testing opportunities than the GED in most states.
How Much Does the HiSET Test Cost?: Conclusion
How much does the HiSET test cost? It ultimately depends on your state, testing format, and available subsidies. Many states offer free or low-cost options, while others charge moderate fees.
The smartest way to keep expenses low is to prepare thoroughly and avoid retakes. Prepsaret provides realistic practice tests and detailed explanations to help you pass on your first attempt and reduce your overall HiSET expenses.