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HiSET® vs GED®

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HiSET Reading Practice Test
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If you want more practice tests and all the resources to PASS the HiSET check out the Online Course

If you want the best chance at passing the HiSET then the Smart Edition HiSET course will provide all the material and resources you need to succeed on the test.

HiSET® vs GED® Differences

The primary difference between the GED and the HiSET is the administration format, fees, and scoring range. Both tests are valued as high school equivalency nationwide at colleges.

The subject matter is very similar however the math section is considered by many to be slightly easier. The HiSET is offered both online and as a paper and pencil, however the GED is only offered online.

The cost to complete all sections of the HiSET is $93.75 for the online version and $115 for the paper version, compared to $144 for the GED.

Each state that administers the HiSET has a slightly different passing score however typically you must score at least an 8 out of 20 on each section of the HiSET for a combined score of at least 45. The GED scores each section of the test on a scale of 1-200 and you must score a 145 on each section to pass.

Which states offer the HiSET?

There are currently 23 states offering the HiSET. You can see the complete list of HiSET states offering the HiSET. While only 23 states offer the HiSET, it is accepted by all programs and universities as a high school equivalent similar to the GED or high school diploma.

GED and HiSET requirements

Each state has different eligibility requirements for the HiSET. However, there are a lot of similarities in eligibility from state to state. It’s always best to check the requirements for each state individually. Look for a complete list of requirements by state on the official HiSET website. 

In most states, to take the HiSET, the requirements are:

  • The test taker must be 18 years or older. 
  • If the test taker is 17, with exceptions, the test taker must be within 60 days of their 18th birthday.
  • Test takers cannot be enrolled in high school. 
  • Government-issued identification. 
  • Proof of state residency where the HiSET is offered.

Some states may require HiSET test takers to take a HiSET practice test, pass a U.S Constitution test, or take a HiSET preparatory course before taking the HiSET. 

In most states, to take the GED, the requirements are:

  • The test taker must be 18 years or older.
  • The test taker must not be enrolled in high school and must have never graduated. 

Some states have additional requirements before being able to take the GED, such as:

  • State residency
  • Complete a U.S Constitution exam
  • Complete an official qualification exam

Which test (HiSET or GED) is easier to pass?

Both the HiSET and GED are relatively the same in difficulty to pass. Both exams cover high school material and similar content in each section.

For example, both exams will test a student’s ability to solve numerical equations, geometry, and algebra in the math section.

With that said the HiSET is considered by many test takers to be slightly easier in the math section, however for the other subject tests there is not much of a difference.

The best way to prepare for either the HiSET or the GED is to take realistic practice tests, utilize study materials that align with the preferred learning style, and develop a study plan that incorporates your weakest topics first and fits into your schedule.

An online HiSET or GED course allows students to access reliable study lessons that review essay writing, math, social studies, English, and reading. In addition, online courses come with educational video lessons, flashcards, and multiple practice tests, and question banks that organize practice questions by each topic on the test.

How to pass the HiSET test

With the right preparation and study habits, it is possible to get a high score on the HiSET test. Here are some tips on preparing for and passing the HiSET test.

One of the most important things to do when preparing for the HiSET test is to ensure you understand the exam format. The HiSET test consists of five sections: reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Each section has its own time limit and number of questions.

Another tip for preparing for the HiSET test is to take a lot of practice tests. Each practice test will come with a diagnostic report. Diagnostic reports will indicate a test taker’s strengths and weaknesses. Based on the diagnostic report, test takers can focus their studies on the areas where they need the most improvement.

HiSET, GED, and higher education

The HiSET and GED exams are two options for people who want to continue their education but didn’t finish high school. Both exams are different but they both measure the same thing: whether or not you have the skills and knowledge of a high school graduate.

Both the HiSET and GED will provide you with an official high school equivalency degree used by almost every college and university opening the door for you to higher education.

HiSET Practice Tests

HiSET Online Course

If you want the best chance for scoring high then the Smart Edition HiSET course will provide all the material and resources you need to succeed on the test.

Disclaimer: GED® is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education (ACE) and administered exclusively by GED Testing Service LLC under license. Smart Edition Academy is not endorsed or approved by ACE or GED Testing Service. HiSET is a registered trademark of Educational Testing Service (ETS). Smart Edition Academy is not endorsed or approved by approved by ETS.

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