Learn more about the GED & HISET

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• The GED test is made up of several question types:

1. Multiple Choice
2. Drag and drop
3. Hot spot (select an area)
4. Fill in the blank
5. Short answer
6. Extended responses.

• The HiSET is made up of:

1. Multiple Choice questions.  There is also an essay component.

• The GED measures students' skills in four subject areas:

1. Mathematical Reasoning 
2. Science
3. Social Studies
4. Language Arts Reading & Writing

• The HiSET measures students' skills in five subject areas:

1. Mathematics
2. Science
3. Social Studies
4. Literacy Reading 
5. Literacy Writing

• The time permitted for each subject area varies on the actual GED test:

1. Mathematical Reasoning - 115 minutes
2. Science - 90 minutes
3. Social Studies- 70 minutes
4. Reasoning Through Language Arts (Reading/Writing)- 150 minutes.

• The time permitted for each subject area varies on the HiSET as well:

1. Mathematics - 90 minutes
2. Science - 80 minutes
3. Social Studies - 70 minutes
4. Literacy Reading - 65 minutes
5. Literacy Writing - 120 minutes (part 1 - 75 minutes & part 2 - 45 minutes).

• 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:

1. extra time
2. extra breaks
3. separate testing room
4. screen magnification
5. audio, braille or large print tests
6. 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.   

• 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).  

• 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.