How to Register to take the HiSET
The High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) is designed to test what a student should learn from a typical high school education. The test is broken into five subject areas:
Math
Reading
Writing
Social Studies
Science
You will need to pass all 5 subjects to earn a high school equivalency diploma.
Questions and Answers (Q&A)
Q: Where can I take the test?
A: The test is offered at a few sites around the city, including Delgado's City Park, West Bank, and Nortshore campuses. For a full listing of testing centers, visit hiset.ets.org.
Q: How much does the test cost?
A: The full battery, which includes all 5 subjects (reading, writing, social studies, science, and math), costs $90. This fee includes 2 full retakes within 365 days of the first test date. Individual subjects can be purchased (instead of the full battery) as well for $30 per subject.
Q: How long is the test?
A: The full battery takes approximately 8 hours to complete; however, the full test isn't offered on a single day.
Q: Can I take all 5 sections on one day?
A: Not at either City Park campuses; currently, a student can only take 3 sections per day. So, the full exam will need to be taken over at least 2 days. Check with other testing centers to see if 1-day testing is offered.
Q: Can I take the test on a computer?
A: Yes; students can choose between Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and Paper Based-Testing (PBT).
Q: Which is better: CBT or PBT?
A: There is no difference between Computer-Based Testing and Paper-Based Testing other than how the test is taken. Students should take whichever format they are more comfortable with. The benefit of CBT is that students will receive scores on all sections immediately (except for the essay, which takes a few days to score). PBT takes 1-3 weeks to score.
Q: How do I get my test scores?
A: All scores will be posted in your HiSET account, which you'll create during the registration process. You can log-in to your HiSET account to view your scores online.
Q: How frequently is the HiSET offered?
Most testing centers, including Delgado's City Park Campus, offer several testing appointments each week, so there are plenty of options. Please note that you need to schedule the appointment through your account on hiset.ets.org. You can only test during appointments that you've previously scheduled.
Q: If I pass, how long will it take to receive my diploma in the mail from the state?
A: It's hard to say. Really! Sometimes students receive their diplomas in a few weeks; other times it has taken a few months. Be patient; and remember, the diploma will be mailed to the address that you use during the registration process on hiset.ets.org. It won't be emailed!
Q: Can I register anytime?
A: Yes; there are several test dates each week, usually on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Check with each test center for the date and time options.
Q: No I mean how do I know when I'm ready to test?
A: It is recommended that students take 1-2 practice tests before taking the Official HiSET exam. The free versions allow students to:
See what the test looks like and and get familiar with the types of questions on each section
Determine which sections they are able to pass
Get feedback on which skills they need to improve
Click here to learn more about the free practice test!
Remember, you can register and take the test at any point that you feel ready. And if you schedule an exam, be sure to let your coach and Joey know so we can help you get ready for test day!
Q: How do I register for the Official HiSET exam?
A:
Visit www.hiset.ets.org
Click "For Test Takers"
On right-side of page, click "Find Test Centers or Schedule an Exam"
Search for test centers by zip code
Choose which test method you prefer between:
PBT - Paper-Based Testing
CBT - Computer-Based Testin
Choose whichever option you feel most comfortable with - they will be the same test. The benefit of computer-based testing is that you will get your scores immediately (except for the essay). It's also easier to skip questions and edit your essay. Therefore, if you feel comfortable with your computer skills and a computer-based test, I think it's a good option.
Click Schedule Appointment (be sure to choose #1 if you want Paper-Based or #2 if you want Computer-Based)
Follow the instructions on screen, which will include creating an account, choosing your specific test date, and paying the $90 test fee (various payment options are allowed).
Let Joey know when you've registered, so we can talk about how to get ready for test day!
Part 1
Start by watching this video guide on how to register for the test.