Learn more about the GED & HISET
Test Question Types
- The GED test is made up of several question types:
- Multiple Choice
- Drag and drop
- Hot spot (select an area)
- Fill in the blank
- Short answer
- Extended responses.
- The HiSET is made up of:
- Multiple Choice questions. There is also an essay component.
Test Subjects
- The GED measures students' skills in four subject areas:
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Science
- Social Studies
- Language Arts Reading & Writing
- The HiSET measures students' skills in five subject areas:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Literacy Reading
- Literacy Writing
Time Length of the Test
- The time permitted for each subject area varies on the actual GED test:
- Mathematical Reasoning - 115 minutes
- Science - 90 minutes
- Social Studies- 70 minutes
- Reasoning Through Language Arts (Reading/Writing)- 150 minutes.
- The time permitted for each subject area varies on the HiSET as well:
- Mathematics - 90 minutes
- Science - 80 minutes
- Social Studies - 70 minutes
- Literacy Reading - 65 minutes
- Literacy Writing - 120 minutes (part 1 - 75 minutes & part 2 - 45 minutes).
Testing Accommodations
- Both the GED and HiSET provides reasonable and appropriate accommodations to test-takers that are eligible. Test-takers must have appropriate disability documentation to support their request for accommodations during the test. Test accommodations include, but are not limited to:
- extra time
- extra breaks
- separate testing room
- screen magnification
- audio, braille or large print tests
- etc.
- GED accommodations and requesting accommodations.
- HiSET accommodations and Request form.
To get the required documentation for accommodations, click on the links for a list of lower costs testing clinics and database in the U.S.
Cost for Test
- The cost for the GED test varies per state; however, the average cost for the GED test is $30 per subject area, totaling $120 for the entire test.
- The cost for the HiSET also varies by state; however, the average overall cost is $90 ($18 per session).
Passing Scores
- GED test-takers must score at least 145 in each subject area on the test with an overall minimum score of 580 to pass the GED test and earn a high school credential.
- HiSET test-takers must score at least 8 (on a scale of 1-20) in each subject area on the test and score at least 2 out of 6 on the essay portion. An overall test score of 45 must be achieved in order for students to pass the HiSET and earn a high school credential.
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