Is the HiSET Available in South Dakota? No. South Dakota does not offer the HiSET exam. The GED is the only state-approved high school equivalency test in South Dakota.
The credential earned is called the GED Certificate — South Dakota is one of the few states that uses the term ‘certificate’ rather than ‘diploma’ for this credential. South Dakota standardized exclusively on the GED for high school equivalency testing.
The HiSET is not offered or accepted in South Dakota. South Dakota’s GED program is administered by the SD Department of Education (DOE), with Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) support programs overseen by the SD Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR).
The state’s GED ecosystem also includes a strong tribal college and organization network serving Native American communities throughout the state.
Which States Still Offer HiSET?
South Dakota borders Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota. Of its neighbors:
| State | Available Exam(s) — 2026 |
| South Dakota | GED only — HiSET not available; no residency requirement |
| Minnesota (neighboring) | GED only — HiSET not available |
| Iowa (neighboring) | HiSET — Iowa is a HiSET state |
| Nebraska (neighboring) | GED only — HiSET not available |
| Wyoming (neighboring) | Both GED and HiSET available |
| Montana (neighboring) | GED only — HiSET not available |
| North Dakota (neighboring) | GED only — HiSET not available |
| Colorado | Both GED and HiSET available |
| Oklahoma | Both GED and HiSET available |
SD residents near Iowa (especially in the Sioux Falls area near the Iowa/Minnesota border) should note: Iowa is a HiSET state. Iowa residents may use the HiSET for an Iowa credential.
However, SD residents who take the HiSET in Iowa would receive an Iowa credential — not a South Dakota GED Certificate. Since South Dakota has no residency requirement, non-residents from Iowa or other states can also take the GED in South Dakota.
What Is the South Dakota GED?
The General Education Development, or GED Certificate, is recognized as the official high school equivalency credential in South Dakota.
The SD Department of Education notes that the GED was developed in the 1940s to help veterans who joined the military without finishing high school, and in the 80+ years since, millions of Americans and thousands of South Dakotans have earned their credential for personal and professional gain.
The South Dakota Department of Education oversees the GED program and credential. The SD Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) separately administers Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) programs that support test preparation and provide tutoring, classes, and other GED support to adult learners. Many tribal organizations and private nonprofits also provide GED support throughout the state.
South Dakota GED At-a-Glance
| Fact | Detail |
| Official credential name | GED Certificate (South Dakota uses ‘certificate,’ not ‘diploma’) |
| Administered by | SD Department of Education (DOE) — credential; SD Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) — Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) programs |
| GED State Administrator | Kristin Larson | [email protected] | (605) 773-3134 | 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD 57501-2291 |
| SD DOE GED contact | [email protected] | (605) 773-4726 | doe.sd.gov/ged/ |
| Number of subjects | 4 |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 |
| Cost — In-Person (Test Center) | $50 per subject ($200 for all four) |
| Cost — Online (Remote Proctored) | $50 per subject ($200 for all four) — SAME as in-person; SD is one of a few states with uniform pricing regardless of format |
| Retake fee — In-Person | $20 test center fee (GED Testing Service waives $26+); one discounted retake per full-price purchase within 365 days |
| Retake fee — Online | $50 — no discounted retake for online testing |
| Residency required? | NO — South Dakota has no residency requirement; non-residents may test in SD |
| No-wait retake attempts | TWO — no waiting period for first 2 in-person retakes; 60-day wait after 3rd attempt |
| Languages | English and Spanish; you CAN combine the two languages to earn your credential in South Dakota |
| SD DOE transcripts/certificates? | NO — SD DOE does NOT provide official transcripts or certificates; all official documents ordered through GED Testing Services |
| Credential delivery | Free electronic diploma and transcript emailed via Parchment after passing all 4 subjects. Free printed diploma also available on request via GED.com. |
| $50 Per Subject — South Dakota’s High GED Price
South Dakota charges $50 per subject for the GED — one of the highest GED per-subject rates in the country (most states charge $30-$44). The total for all four subjects is $200. Critically, the $50 price applies equally to both in-person and online testing — South Dakota is one of the few states that does not charge more for the online option. If cost is a concern, contact DLR Adult Education and Literacy programs about financial assistance. |
South Dakota GED Eligibility Requirements (2026)
Adults 18 and Older: Standard Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old to test without special conditions
- No residency requirement — both South Dakota residents and non-residents may take the GED in South Dakota
- Must not currently be enrolled in an accredited school district (K-12)
- Must not already hold a high school diploma
- No GED prep class required before testing (strongly recommended)
- No GED Ready practice test required for in-person testing; required for online testing only
- Register and schedule at GED.com
Students Age 16 or 17
| South Dakota Has Two Distinct Under-18 Pathways
South Dakota’s under-18 GED process is unique in having two entirely separate pathways:
Each pathway has different forms, different submission processes, and different legal authority. Read carefully to determine which pathway applies to your situation. |
School-Sponsored Program (SDCL 13-27-1.4)
For students who are enrolled in a South Dakota school district OR participating in a school-sponsored GED program. Under SDCL 13-27-1.4, students 16+ may be eligible to take the GED as part of an in-school or school-sponsored program if one of these five conditions is met:
- The parent or guardian gives permission for their child to participate in a school-based high school equivalency preparation program
- The school verifies the child will not graduate with the student’s cohort class because of credit deficiency
- The child has been court-ordered or has authorization from a court services officer to take the exams
- The child is under the direction of the Department of Corrections
- The child is enrolled in an approved Job Corps program
Form: The In-School Underage GED Testing Waiver Form must be submitted by the school district or authorized institution — NOT by parents/guardians.
A school administrator must sign the form. By submitting, the school district verifies the student will participate in an in-school or school-sponsored high school equivalency prep program under the school district’s supervision.
Alternative Instruction / Homeschool (SDCL 13-27-3)
For students being taught at home under alternative instruction. Under SDCL 13-27-3, students 16+ are eligible to take the GED as part of alternative instruction (homeschooling). The following steps MUST be taken in order:
- The parent/guardian MUST file the Alternative Instruction Notification Form with the SD Department of Education first — this form must be on file before proceeding.
- The student must create a GED account at GED.com
- Parents MUST submit the Alternative Instruction Underage GED Waiver Form — both forms are available at doe.sd.gov/ged/
| Foreign Exchange Students (Age 16+)
A foreign exchange student who is at least 16 years old may take the GED test in South Dakota if they:
|
| Under-18 Online Testing
For all under-18 test-takers testing online: a parent or guardian must be physically present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize the underage tester to be recorded during testing. If the parent or guardian is not present, the exam session will be revoked. |
Compulsory Attendance Age Note for Adult Education Programs
The Southeast Technical College Hovland Learning Center in Sioux Falls (a DLR-funded AEL program) notes that enrollment requires students to be at least 16 years of age AND beyond the compulsory attendance age (18 in South Dakota).
This means that for DLR AEL program enrollment purposes, the practical minimum age for adults without special waiver documentation is effectively 18. For 16-17-year-olds, the school-sponsored or alternative instruction waiver pathway governs access.
South Dakota GED Cost Fee Guide
| $50 Per Subject — Uniform Pricing for In-Person and Online
South Dakota charges $50 per subject for the GED in both in-person and online formats. At $200 for all four subjects, South Dakota has one of the highest GED total costs in the nation. Unlike many states that charge more for online testing, South Dakota maintains the same price for both. Discounted retakes at test centers cost $20. |
Standard GED Test Fees
| Fee Item | Amount / Detail |
| Per subject — In-Person (Test Center) | $50.00 |
| Full battery — In-Person (all 4 subjects) | $200.00 |
| Per subject — Online (Remote Proctored) | $50.00 (same as in-person — SD does not charge more for online) |
| Full battery — Online (all 4 subjects) | $200.00 + GED Ready practice tests required (~$7.99 per subject) |
| Discounted retake — In-Person | $20 test center fee (GED Testing Service waives $26+); one discounted retake per full-price purchase within 365 days |
| Online retake | $50 — no discounted retake for online testing |
| GED Ready practice test | ~$7.99 per subject — required for online testing; strongly recommended for in-person |
| Payment method | Debit or credit card at GED.com. No card? Use American Express Bluebird (register online, load cash at Walmart). |
Retake Waiting Periods in South Dakota
| Retake Rule | Details |
| No-wait attempts — In-Person | TWO — no waiting period for the first two retakes. 60-day wait after 3rd attempt. No annual limit on total attempts. |
| No-wait attempts — Online | ONE — one retake before 60-day wait. After 2 online attempts on the same subject, you must wait 60 days. |
| Discounted retake pattern | 1 full price: 1 discounted retake ($20) within 365 days. Repeats each time: fail → one discounted retake → full price → one discounted retake, etc. |
| Online retake cost | $50 — no discounted retake for online testing |
South Dakota GED Subjects, Format, and Test Length
The SD GED consists of four subject tests administered on a computer. You can take them in any order and on different days. In South Dakota, you can take all four subjects in one day at an in-person test center if the schedule allows. For online testing, each subject must be scheduled separately.
Subject Test Overview
| Subject | Time Limit | Content and Format |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 min (10-min break) | Reading comprehension, extended response essay (45 min), grammar; multiple choice, drag-and-drop, extended response |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Basic math, geometry, graphs, algebra, functions; on-screen calculator for Part 2; calculator-free in Part 1 |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life, physical, and earth science; data interpretation from graphs and diagrams |
| Social Studies | 70 minutes | U.S. history, civics, economics, geography; map and primary source document analysis |
Passing Score and Score Levels
| Score Level | Score Range and Meaning |
| Below Passing | 100–144 per subject — must retake; $20 discounted in-person retake available |
| Passing (High School Equivalency) | 145–164 per subject — earns South Dakota GED Certificate |
| GED College Ready | 165–174 — indicates readiness for college-level courses; may qualify for placement testing waivers at SD institutions |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175–200 — may earn college credits at participating institutions; South Dakota Board of Regents has a specific GED+ College Credit program (see Section 10) |
| Score availability | Same day, within 3 hours of completing a subject test |
South Dakota GED Online: Can You Take the GED at Home?
| Yes, Online GED Testing Is Available in South Dakota
South Dakota supports the GED Online Proctored exam. The cost is the same as in-person: $50 per subject. GED Ready is required before scheduling online. This is one of the few states where online testing does not cost more than in-person testing. Under-18 test-takers need a parent at the pre-test check-in. |
Online GED Requirements in South Dakota
| Requirement | Details |
| GED Ready practice test | REQUIRED — must score ‘green’ on GED Ready within 60 days of scheduling the online exam for each subject |
| Computer | Computer with webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection |
| Testing environment | Private, quiet, and well-lit testing environment |
| Cost | $50 per subject — same as in-person; no extra charge for online format in South Dakota |
| Under-18 online requirement | Parent or guardian must be physically present at pre-test check-in. If absent, the session is revoked. |
| Online retake wait | 60-day wait after 2nd online attempt on the same subject. Online retakes cost $50 with no discount. |
| Scheduling | Each online subject must be scheduled separately, one at a time. |
Online vs. In-Person: Key Differences in South Dakota
| Feature | In-Person (Test Center) | Online (Remote Proctored) |
| Cost per subject | $50 (same) | $50 (same as in-person) |
| GED Ready required? | NOT required | YES — green score within 60 days |
| No-wait retake attempts | TWO before 60-day wait | ONE before 60-day wait |
| Discounted retake | $20 (one per full-price purchase) | $50 — no discount |
| All subjects on the same day? | Yes — if the test center allows | No — scheduled separately |
| Under-18 parent? | No (waiver form only) | YES — parent at pre-test check-in |
| Best for | Discounted retakes; all subjects in one visit; lower GED Ready cost | Rural SD residents far from test centers; 24/7 availability; same price as in-person |
HiSET vs. GED
| Feature | GED (South Dakota) | HiSET (Not in SD) |
| Available in SD? | YES | NO |
| Number of subjects | 4 | 5 (Language Arts split into Reading and Writing) |
| Credential name | GED Certificate (SD calls it ‘certificate’) | Not applicable in SD |
| Cost in SD | $200 total (in-person and online same price) | Not available in SD |
| Passing score | 145 out of 200 per subject | 8 out of 20; essay 2/6; 45 combined |
| Score tiers | Pass / College Ready (165+) / College Ready + Credit (175+) | Pass only — no college credit tiers |
| SD Board of Regents program? | YES — SD Board of Regents GED+ College Credit program; see doe.sd.gov/ged/ | Not applicable |
| Residency? | NOT required | Varies by state |
| Military acceptance | Yes — all branches | Yes — all branches |
| SDSU additional requirement? | GED recipients 21 or younger must also take the ACT and earn a composite of 18+ for SDSU admission | SDSU also accepts HiSET — same ACT requirement applies |
South Dakota GED Testing Centers
South Dakota has GED testing centers at technical colleges, career learning centers, tribal colleges, and Department of Labor offices throughout the state. All testing is computer-based.
| City | Testing Center and Contact |
| Brookings | SD Dept. of Labor & Regulation — 1310 Main Ave S, Suite 103, Brookings, SD 57006 | (605) 688-4350 |
| Eagle Butte | Oglala Lakota College — 113 Lincoln St, Eagle Butte, SD 57625 | (605) 964-8011 |
| Gregory | Gregory Learning Center — 621 Main St, Gregory, SD 57533 | (605) 835-8275 |
| Huron | Cornerstones Career Education Center — 33 3rd Street SE, Huron, SD 57350 | (605) 353-7175 |
| Lower Brule | Lower Brule Community College — 137 Sacred Circle Dr, Lower Brule, SD 57548 | (605) 473-5028 |
| Mission | Sinte Gleska University — 1355 W Spotted Tail Dr, Mission, SD 57555 | (605) 856-8229 |
| Pierre | The Right Turn — 115 E Sioux Ave, Pierre, SD 57501 | (605) 773-4755 |
| Rapid City | Career Learning Center of the Black Hills — 730 E Watertown St, Rapid City, SD 57701 | (605) 394-5120 |
| Sioux Falls | Southeast Technical College (Ed Wood Center, Rm 103) — 2000 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57107 | (605) 367-6014 |
| Wagner | Yankton Sioux Tribe GED Testing — 110 SE First St, Wagner, SD 57380 | (605) 384-3382 |
| Watertown | Lake Area Technical College — 1201 Arrow Ave, Watertown, SD 57201 | (605) 882-5284 |
| Yankton | SD Dept. of Labor & Regulation — 3113 Spruce St, Suite 124, Yankton, SD 57078 | (605) 668-2900 |
For the complete, current official list of SD GED Testing Centers, download the testing centers document at doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/TestingCenters.pdf. You can also use the GED.com test center locator.
Free GED Preparation Programs in South Dakota
DLR Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Programs
The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) oversees several Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) programs across the state. These programs provide resources, tutoring, classes, and other GED support to adult learners at no cost or low cost.
| Provider | Details |
| Southeast Technical College — Hovland Learning Center (Sioux Falls) | DLR-funded. Free GED preparation through structured classes and independent learning labs. Must be 16+ AND beyond compulsory attendance age (18 in SD). Requires valid Social Security card or comparable documentation. GED Testing Center on site. Call to enroll: (605) 367-7997. southeasttech.edu/apply/adult-education-literacy_hovland/ |
| Cornerstones Career Learning Center (Multiple locations) | DLR-funded. GED prep, ESL, and basic skills. Locations: Huron (33 3rd Street SE, 605-353-7175), Vermillion (9 Court St, 605-677-6912), Yankton (610 W. 23rd St. Suite 1, 605-668-2920). cornerstonescareer.com |
| Career Learning Center of the Black Hills (Rapid City) | Black Hills Special Services Cooperative Education and Workforce Development. GED prep and testing. Also serves communities throughout the Black Hills. 730 E Watertown St, Rapid City | (605) 394-5120 |
| Lake Area Technical College (Watertown) | DLR-funded Adult Education and Literacy. 1201 Arrow Ave, Building 200, Room 218, Watertown, SD 57201 | (605) 882-5284 ext. 310 | lakeareatech.edu/academics/adult-education-literacy |
| Lutheran Social Services — Center for New Americans (Sioux Falls) | DLR-funded. 300 E. 6th St., Suite 100, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 | (605) 731-2040 | lsssd.org |
| The Right Turn — Adult Education (Pierre) | Private nonprofit. GED prep and adult education services in the Pierre area. 115 E Sioux Ave, Pierre, SD 57501 | (605) 773-4755 | therightturn.net/adult-education- |
Tribal GED Programs South Dakota
South Dakota has one of the highest concentrations of tribal colleges and GED programs of any state, reflecting the significant Native American population. The following tribal organizations offer GED support services:
| Tribal Provider | Details |
| Oglala Lakota College (OLC) | GED and High School Equivalency programs for the Oglala Sioux Tribe community. Eagle Butte: 113 Lincoln St, (605) 964-8011. Also at Kyle (main campus). olc.edu/future-students/continuing-education-ged/ |
| Sinte Gleska University — Adult Basic Education GED Dept. (Mission) | GED instruction serving the Rosebud Sioux Tribe community. 1355 W Spotted Tail Dr, Mission, SD 57555 | (605) 856-8229 | sintegleska.edu/adult-basic-education.html |
| Sitting Bull College AmeriCorps GED Program (Fort Yates area) | AmeriCorps-funded GED program serving the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe community. sittingbull.edu/about/community/americorps/ |
| Lower Brule Community College (Lower Brule) | GED support for the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe community. 137 Sacred Circle Dr, Lower Brule, SD 57548 | (605) 473-5028 |
| Yankton Sioux Tribe Employment Training Service Center (Wagner) | GED testing and employment training. 110 SE First St, Wagner, SD 57380 | (605) 384-3382 | swo-nsn.gov/departments/human-services-department/etdemo/ |
| Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Employment Training Service Center | GED and employment training for the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Tribe. swo-nsn.gov |
| Box Elder Job Corps | The federally funded Job Corps program offers GED preparation. Box Elder (near Rapid City). boxelder.jobcorps.gov |
South Dakota Department of Corrections Adult Education
The SD Department of Corrections offers adult basic education and GED programs at correctional facilities in Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Springfield, and Yankton. Contact: Angela Smith, Associate Director of Education & Programs, 3200 East Highway 34, Pierre, SD 57501 | (605) 773-3478.
Free GED Practice Test Resources
| Resource | Where to Access |
| SD State Library — FREE GED Test Prep | The South Dakota State Library provides free access to Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test Prep through the library’s electronic resources. Access at library.sd.gov/LIB/ERD/complete.aspx — search for ‘Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test Prep’ |
| GED Free Test Previews | ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html — free short subject previews |
| GED Official Practice Questions | ged.com/study/practice-questions.html — official sample questions with explanations |
| GED Ready Practice Test (~$7.99/subject) | Required for online testing. Strongly recommended before any official attempt given SD’s $50 per-subject cost. |
| Prepsaret.com | Free and premium test prep resources and video lessons aligned to GED content areas |
| GED Testing Service YouTube | youtube.com/@GEDTestingService — official GED information and preparation videos; linked from doe.sd.gov/ged/ |
| GED Official Study Guides | ged.com/educators-admins/teaching/classroom_materials/study_guides/ — official classroom materials and study guides |
| SD DOE Helpful Resources PDF | doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/Helpful-Resources.pdf — Getting Started with the GED: Helpful Resources curated by the SD DOE |
South Dakota Board of Regents GED+ College Credit Program
| SD Board of Regents GED+ College Credit — Unique Statewide Program
South Dakota has a specific GED+ College Credit program coordinated through the SD Board of Regents. GED test-takers who achieve College Ready + Credit scores (175+) may be able to earn college credits at South Dakota Board of Regents institutions. This is a significant financial opportunity that can reduce time and tuition at SD public universities and colleges. |
The SD Board of Regents GED+ College Credit Flyer is available at SD DOE at [email protected] or (605) 773-4726 for the most current information about which institutions participate and how many credits may be earned.
Additionally, South Dakota State University (SDSU) has published specific GED admission requirements: GED recipients who are 21 years of age or younger must also take the ACT and earn a composite score of 18 or higher (with specific subtest minimums).
This is an important note for younger SD GED completers planning to apply to SDSU. Contact SDSU Admissions at sdstate.edu/admissions for current policies.
How to Get Your GED in South Dakota: Step-by-Step
Registration is done online at GED.com. Given SD’s $50 per-subject cost, taking the GED Ready practice test before scheduling is especially important — a failed first attempt costs $50, making preparation particularly valuable.
- Create a free account at GED.com and select South Dakota as your testing state.
- If you are 16 or 17: determine which pathway applies. School-Sponsored: your school district submits the In-School Underage GED Testing Waiver. Alternative Instruction/Homeschool: file the Alternative Instruction Notification Form with SD DOE first, then submit the Alternative Instruction Underage GED Waiver Form.
- Connect to GED preparation resources: DLR-funded programs, tribal college programs, or the SD State Library’s free Peterson’s Test Prep (library.sd.gov). Contact your nearest DLR AEL provider from the list
- Study using free resources from GED.com and your preparation program. Given the $50 per-subject cost, invest time in thorough preparation before scheduling.
- Take the GED Ready practice test ($7.99/subject) before scheduling, especially for online testing (required) and in-person (strongly recommended given the $50 fee). Achieve a green score before scheduling.
- Schedule your tests at GED.com: $50 per subject ($200 total) — same price for in-person and online. Select your nearest SD test center using GED.com or the SDDOE’s testing centers list
- On test day: bring a valid government-issued photo ID showing your name, date of birth, photograph, and signature. Leave phones, notes, food, and drinks outside the testing room. Under-18 online testers: the parent must be at the pre-test check-in.
- After passing all 4 subjects, check your email for your free electronic GED Certificate and transcript. Download immediately — links are time-limited. Order a free printed diploma through GED.com if desired.
How to Pass the South Dakota GED Fast
The average GED preparation time is 2 to 3 months. South Dakota’s $50 per-subject cost makes preparation especially important — every failed attempt costs $50, so thorough preparation before testing is more financially important here than in most states. Here is what consistently works.
30-Day GED Study Blueprint
| Week | Focus and Activities |
| Week 1: Assess and connect | Connect with a DLR AEL program or SD State Library Peterson’s Test Prep. Take free GED practice previews at GED.com for all four subjects. Identify your weakest 1-2 subjects — dedicate 70% of study time there. Given the $50/subject cost, being strategic about preparation is critical. |
| Week 2: Deep subject work | Focus on Mathematical Reasoning (most commonly failed subject). Study algebra, linear equations, graphs, and data interpretation. Begin RLA — practice reading informational passages and drafting 45-minute essay responses. Use the free AEL program or SD State Library prep materials. |
| Week 3: Full practice + timed tests | Take one full-time practice test per subject. Fix weak areas immediately. Practice the Extended Response essay — 4-paragraph argument with thesis, text evidence, and conclusion. For online testing, ensure tech is ready. |
| Week 4: GED Ready + schedule | Take the GED Ready practice test (~$7.99/subject). Green score confirms readiness for the $50 official test. Not green: study weak areas from your score report 3-5 days, then retest GED Ready. The $7.99 GED Ready is money well spent before a $50 official attempt. |
South Dakota-Specific Tips
Maximize the Value of the SD State Library Free Prep
The South Dakota State Library provides free access to Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test Prep through the state library’s electronic resources — the same type of prep material that costs money elsewhere. Access it at library.sd.gov/LIB/ERD/complete.aspx and search for ‘Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test Prep.’ This is the single best free prep resource unique to South Dakota.
Rural Test-Taker Strategy
South Dakota’s vast geography means many test-takers are far from test centers. The online GED option at $50/subject (same as in-person) is ideal for rural test-takers who cannot easily travel to Sioux Falls, Rapid City, or other test centers. However, online testing requires GED Ready first. Budget $7.99 per subject for GED Ready, plus $50 per subject for the official exam.
Mathematical Reasoning
Focus on: arithmetic and percentages, ratios and proportions, linear equations, graphs and data interpretation, basic geometry. Part 1 is calculator-free — practice mental math. Work through at least 30 word problems before test day. Free math support is available through Hovland Learning Center (Sioux Falls), Cornerstones (Huron/Vermillion/Yankton), and tribal college programs.
Reasoning Through Language Arts
Practice the 3-step method:
- Read both source passages and identify the main argument
- Outline your position with 2-3 text evidence points
- Write a clear 4-paragraph argumentative essay. Aim for 300+ organized words. Spend 5 minutes outlining before writing — planned essays consistently score higher.
Day-of-Test Checklist
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID showing name, date of birth, photograph, and signature
- For 16-17 year-olds: ensure your waiver (school-sponsored OR alternative instruction) has been submitted and approved before test day
- Leave phone, smart watch, notes, food, and drinks outside the testing room
- For online testing: webcam, microphone, stable internet, private/quiet/well-lit space; log in early for pre-test check-in; under-18 testers need a parent present
- For the Extended Response essay: spend 5 minutes outlining your argument before writing
- Remember: no waiting period for first 2 in-person retakes; $20 retake fee
South Dakota GED Certificate and Transcripts
| SD DOE Does NOT Issue Transcripts or Certificates
The South Dakota Department of Education does NOT provide official transcripts or certificates. All official GED documents must be ordered directly through GED Testing Services at GED.com. Contact the SD DOE at [email protected] or (605) 773-4726 for help with ordering. |
What You Receive After Passing All Four Subjects:
- Free electronic GED Certificate and transcript emailed to your GED.com account address after passing all 4 subjects — download links are time-limited, download immediately
- Free printed diploma/certificate also available on request: GED.com account > My Scores > Order Duplicates > Printed Diploma. Follow the instructions presented during the ordering process.
- Electronic documents verified by GED Testing Service/Parchment using Blue Ribbon Security — authentic, tamper-proof PDFs that employers and colleges can verify
Requesting Documents
| Document | How to Obtain |
| Electronic certificate + transcript (automatic) | Emailed to the GED.com account after passing all 4 subjects. Download immediately. |
| Free printed certificate | GED.com > My Scores > Order Duplicates > Printed Diploma. Follow the ordering instructions. |
| Credential earned BEFORE 2014 | Special process: see doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/Ordering-Before-2014.pdf |
| Credential earned AFTER 2014 | Standard process: ged.com/life-after-ged.html | Also see doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/Ordering-After-2014.pdf |
| SD DOE GED contact | [email protected] | (605) 773-4726 | doe.sd.gov/ged/ |
| GED Administrator | Kristin Larson | [email protected] | (605) 773-3134 | 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD 57501-2291 |
After Your Certificate: What’s Next in South Dakota?
- Apply to any SD technical college or university — your GED Certificate satisfies standard admission requirements at SD Board of Regents institutions, including SDSU, USD, Black Hills State, Dakota State, NSU, and all SD technical colleges
- IMPORTANT for SDSU (and potentially other SD universities): GED recipients age 21 or younger must also take the ACT and earn a composite score of 18 or higher — plan ahead if you are 21 or younger and targeting SDSU
- Apply for FAFSA federal financial aid — your certificate makes you eligible for federal financial aid
- If you scored 165+ (College Ready): ask your SD college about bypassing placement testing
- If you scored 175+ (College Ready + Credit): review the SD Board of Regents GED+ College Credit Flyer
- Contact your nearest SD Department of Labor and Regulation office or DLR AEL program for WIOA-funded career training and job placement support
What Can You Do With a South Dakota GED Certificate?
| Legal Equivalence in South Dakota
The South Dakota GED Certificate is recognized as the official high school equivalency credential in South Dakota. All South Dakota employers accept it, all SD colleges and universities, all branches of the U.S. military, and all federal employment programs. The GED is accepted by 98% of U.S. colleges and employers. |
| Opportunity | Details |
| Employment | Agriculture, energy, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, tourism — most SD entry-level and professional positions require a high school diploma or equivalent |
| Military service | All U.S. Armed Forces branches accept the SD GED Certificate; Ellsworth AFB and other SD military installations |
| SD Board of Regents universities | SDSU, University of South Dakota, Black Hills State, Dakota State, Northern State, and all SD public universities accept the GED Certificate for admission (SDSU: note ACT requirement for age 21 and under) |
| SD technical colleges | Southeast Technical College, Lake Area Technical College, Mitchell Technical College, and Western Dakota Technical College all accept the GED Certificate for standard admission |
| Healthcare | CNA programs, medical assistant, phlebotomy, pharmacy technician — most SD healthcare training programs require a high school diploma or equivalent |
| Agriculture and energy | South Dakota’s dominant industries — many agricultural operations, wind energy, and oil/gas positions require a GED or equivalent for employment and advancement |
| Federal employment in SD | All federal facilities in SD — Ellsworth AFB, VA, USDA, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and others — accept the SD GED Certificate for positions requiring a high school diploma |
| Tribal employment and training | Tribal nations in SD recognize the GED Certificate for employment, training programs, and tribal college admission |
| College credits (GED 175+) | SD Board of Regents GED+ College Credit program — high scores may earn college credits at SD public universities. See doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/GED-SDBOR.pdf |
South Dakota HiSET Alternative FAQs
Is the HiSET available in South Dakota?
No. South Dakota does not offer the HiSET exam. The GED is the only state-approved high school equivalency test in South Dakota. The credential earned is the GED Certificate, issued through GED Testing Services and recognized by the SD Department of Education as the official high school equivalency credential.
Why is the SD GED called a ‘Certificate’ and not a ‘Diploma’?
South Dakota uses the official GED Testing Service terminology — ‘GED Certificate’ — rather than the common informal term ‘GED Diploma.’ This is a naming convention, not a difference in legal status or value.
The GED Certificate is legally equivalent to a high school diploma in South Dakota and is accepted identically by employers, colleges, and military branches. The SD DOE officially confirms that individuals who earn their GED Certificate are ‘just as prepared to enter the workforce, launch a career, or enter a postsecondary degree or training program as traditional high school graduates.’
Why does the GED cost $50 per subject in South Dakota?
South Dakota charges $50 per subject for the GED — one of the highest rates in the country. The $50 rate applies equally to both in-person and online testing (most states charge more for online).
This pricing is set by the state in partnership with GED Testing Service. If cost is a concern, connect with DLR Adult Education and Literacy programs (dlr.sd.gov) about financial assistance, or take advantage of the SD State Library’s free Gale Presents Peterson’s Test Prep to prepare thoroughly before the $50 official exam.
How does a 16-17-year-old take the GED in South Dakota?
South Dakota has two pathways:
- School-Sponsored: if the student is connected to an SD school district, the school district submits the In-School Underage GED Testing Waiver Form (signed by a school administrator) confirming the student meets one of five criteria under SDCL 13-27-1.4.
- Alternative Instruction/Homeschool: the parent/guardian must first file the Alternative Instruction Notification Form with the SD DOE (doe.sd.gov/oatq/homeschooling.aspx), then submit the Alternative Instruction Underage GED Waiver Form. Both forms at [email protected] or (605) 773-4726 for guidance.
Does South Dakota require residency to take the GED?
No. South Dakota has no residency requirement. Non-residents may take the GED at South Dakota test centers. The GED Certificate earned would be a South Dakota credential.
How do I get my GED Certificate and transcript in South Dakota?
After passing all four GED subjects, you automatically receive a free electronic GED Certificate and transcript emailed to your GED.com account. Download links are time-limited — download immediately.
Order a free printed certificate through GED.com (My Scores > Order Duplicates). Note: the SD DOE does NOT issue official transcripts or certificates — all official documents come through GED Testing Services.
Do I need to take the ACT to get into a South Dakota university with a GED?
For most SD Board of Regents universities, the GED Certificate alone satisfies admission requirements (subject to other institutional criteria).
However, South Dakota State University (SDSU) requires GED recipients who are 21 years of age or younger to also take the ACT and earn a composite score of 18 or higher with specific subtest minimums.
If you are 21 or younger and planning to apply to SDSU, check sdstate.edu/admissions for the current requirements. Contact other individual SD universities directly to confirm their specific policies.
What free GED prep resources does South Dakota offer?
The most unique free resource in SD is the South Dakota State Library’s free access to Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test Prep — available at library.sd.gov/LIB/ERD/complete.aspx. Additionally: GED.com free test previews and practice questions; Khan Academy; GED Testing Service YouTube channel; DLR AEL programs statewide (free tutoring and classes); tribal college programs; and the SD DOE’s curated Helpful Resources guide at doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/Helpful-Resources.pdfm.
Final Thoughts: GED Your South Dakota HiSET Alternative
South Dakota’s GED program has two distinctive features that set it apart from the rest of this guide series. First, at $50 per subject, South Dakota has one of the highest GED per-subject rates in the country — making thorough preparation before each attempt more financially important here than anywhere else.
The SD State Library’s free Peterson’s Test Prep and the DLR AEL programs are your most valuable free resources.
Second, the tribal college and organization network in South Dakota — Oglala Lakota College, Sinte Gleska University, Sitting Bull College AmeriCorps, Lower Brule Community College, Yankton Sioux Tribe, and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate — provides GED support infrastructure that is unparalleled in the region, reflecting South Dakota’s substantial Native American population.
The South Dakota GED Certificate opens every door in the state — from the Board of Regents universities to technical colleges, federal positions at Ellsworth AFB to tribal employment programs, agricultural and energy sector jobs to healthcare careers.
The credential’s equivalence to a traditional high school diploma is explicitly affirmed by the SD Department of Education.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. Create a free GED account at GED.com and select South Dakota as your testing state 2. If 16 or 17: determine your pathway (school-sponsored or alternative instruction) and submit the correct waiver form at doe.sd.gov/ged/ 3. Start with FREE prep: SD State Library — library.sd.gov/LIB/ERD/complete.aspx (search Peterson’s Test Prep); GED.com free previews; DLR AEL programs 4. Find your nearest AEL program: dlr.sd.gov/workforce_services/individuals/adult_education_providers.aspx 5. Tribal GED programs (if applicable): Oglala Lakota College (olc.edu), Sinte Gleska University (sintegleska.edu), Sitting Bull College (sittingbull.edu), Lower Brule Community College, Yankton Sioux Tribe (swo-nsn.gov) 6. Given SD’s $50/subject cost, take the GED Ready practice test (~$7.99/subject) BEFORE scheduling your official exam — a green score is your confirmation to schedule 7. Schedule at GED.com: $50/subject in-person or online (same price). Testing centers: doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/TestingCenters.pdf 8. If scoring 175+: review the SD Board of Regents GED+ College Credit Flyer at doe.sd.gov/ged/documents/GED-SDBOR.pdf 9. If 21 or younger and targeting SDSU: also prepare for the ACT (composite 18+ required) 10. After passing: download electronic certificate immediately (time-limited). Order free printed certificate at GED.com if desired. SD DOE GED Contact: [email protected] | (605) 773-4726 | doe.sd.gov/ged/ GED State Administrator Kristin Larson: [email protected] | (605) 773-3134 | 800 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD 57501 SD DLR Adult Education and Literacy: dlr.sd.gov/workforce_services/individuals/adult_education_providers.aspx SD State Library Free Prep: library.sd.gov/LIB/ERD/complete.aspx GED Testing Helpline: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) |