Frequently Asked Questions about the HiSET Exam

What is the HiSET exam?

  • The HiSET® exam is an affordable, accessible high school equivalency test option for out-of-school youth and adults without a high school diploma to demonstrate their skills and knowledge and earn a state-issued high school equivalency credential. The five subject area tests are:
  • Language Arts – Reading
  • Language Arts – Writing
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Click here to see an overview of the HiSET Exam. Click here for more information on each of the subjects.

Is there a fee to take the HiSET Exam?

  • In Georgia, the HiSET computer-based five subject-area tests are $26.75 each. The HiSET @Home five subject-area tests are $36.25 each.

Who is eligible to take the HiSET exam?

  • The HiSET exam can only be administered to individuals who:
  • Are at least 16 years of age* (*16 and 17-year-olds must enroll in a state-approved adult education program and receive approval to test. Contact your local Adult Education Center for more information.)
  • Have not graduated from an accredited high school
  • Are not currently enrolled in a regular high school; and
  • Can provide a valid photo ID (driver’s license, state identification card, military ID or Passport).

Do I have to be a resident of Georgia to take the HiSET exam in Georgia?

  • No. You do not need to be a resident to take the HiSET exam in Georgia; however, you must take and pass your last exam in Georgia to earn the state credential.

How do I sign up to take the HiSET exam?

  • Visit hiset.ets.org to set up your My HiSET Account and schedule your exam. You can find a test center near you or sign up for HiSET@Home. You can also call the ETS Customer Service at 1-855-MyHiSET (1-855-694-4738) Note: A $10 fee will be applied when registering by phone.

What score is required to pass the HiSET exam?

  • To pass the HiSET® exam, you must:
  • Score at least 8 out of 20 on each of the five subtests
  • Score at least 2 out of 6 on the essay
  • Achieve a total combined score on all five HiSET subtests of at least 45 out of 100
  • Take all subject-area tests in a uniform language (English or Spanish).
  • The HiSET pass score is based on a national study of high school juniors and seniors and indicates that 60 percent of graduating high school students would pass the HiSET exam.

When can I retest and what is the cost?

  • For the HiSET computer-based exam, you will receive two retests per subtest at $16 each taken within 12 calendar months. For HiSET@Home, you will receive two retests per subtest at $25.50 each taken within 12 calendar months. Candidates must wait 14 days between test attempts.

When will I receive my transcript and/or diploma?

  • Graduates should expect to receive credentials in the mail within 2-3 weeks from the test date.

How do I get official transcripts or duplicate diplomas?

What can I do once I receive my HiSET diploma in Georgia?

  • The HiSET diploma is one type of high school equivalency offered in Georgia. Many employers recognize the HiSET diploma as a high school equivalency credential. HiSET graduates may also attend technical college with free tuition if you enroll in one of the 17 areas funded by the HOPE Career Grant. Visit here for detailed information on HOPE Career Grant programs.

What are the differences between the HiSET exam and GED test?

  • Both the GED test and HiSET exam are recognized high school equivalency credentials in Georgia. For a comparison of the GED test and HiSET exam, view this resource.