hiset frequently asked questions
What is the HiSET? Is it the same as the GED?
In January 2014 the State of New Hampshire phased out the GED and now all high school equivalency testing is done using the HiSET. The HiSET is administered at local testing centers in New Hampshire with Laconia Adult Education being one of these centers. This test assesses reading, writing, math, science and social studies. Students who started with the GED but did not finish all tests must start over with the HiSET.
Why take the HiSET exam?
The HiSET exam will provide a high school credential and allow students to attend college and enlist in the military. Many jobs require a high school diploma and the HiSET will provide an affordable option for students who wish to advance their career.
Who can take the HiSET exam?
According to NH rules a student must be 18 years old. Some students may receive approval from their school districts to take HiSET Tests at the age of 16 or 17. Students must be a resident of NH to take the HiSET tests in New Hampshire and to receive a New Hampshire Certificate of High School Equivalency. You do not have to be a citizen to take the test but will need a government-issued ID.
Do I have to attend a HiSET class?
The Continuing and Alternative Education program does not require students to attend a HiSET class but it is strongly recommended. Students who have been out of school for a period of time will benefit from refreshing their math, reading and writing skills as well as subject area knowledge. HiSET preparatory classes are offered twice a week at Salem High School. Our experienced teachers will develop a personal learning plan to prepare students to take the HiSET exam.
Do I have to take a practice test?
A practice test is not required, for testers under the age of 18, but highly recommended so students can gain a greater understanding of the test and the type of questions that are asked. There may be a small fee for taking a practice test. Completing a practice test will help lessen any test anxiety a student may experience. Practice test opportunities are available within the HiSET preparatory classes.
Can I use a calculator when I take the math test?
Calculators are provided for students taking the math portion of the HiSET. Students may not use their own calculators or phones. The math section is all multiple choice.
How much does the test cost?
The state testing fee for the HiSET is $125 and must be paid at registration. The HiSET offered at Laconia High School is either computer or paper-based. If you fail to show up on exam day with no notification, you will forfeit payment for that days exams.
How long will the test take? Do I take the whole test at the same time?
The whole test takes 7 hours to complete. There are 5 subtests required for completion of the exam. Most complete the test in two mornings. Each subtest is multiple choice except for the writing subtest which will require an essay. The subtests can be taken in whatever order you choose. Testing is done M-Thursday in the morning only.
What is required for identification the day of the test?
During the scheduling process, test takers are asked to confirm eligibility requirements. Documents such as a driver’s license, state or government issued ID or passport is an acceptable document and must be brought to the testing center the day of the test. Identification must not be expired. Birth certificates, credit or debit cards, social security cards or student ID’s will not be accepted.
Are accommodations available for students who have a documented disability?
Accommodations are available for test takers with diagnosed disabilities. All test takers requesting any accommodations must register by mail or email through ETS Disability Services and have their accommodations approved before their test can be scheduled. Your request should be submitted as early as possible, especially if you are requesting an alternate test format. Documentation review takes approximately six weeks once your request and complete paperwork have been received. If additional documentation must be submitted, it can be another six weeks from the time the new documentation is received until the review is complete.
Can students who are homeschooled take the HiSET test to be eligible for college?
Homeschooled students who are under 18 and who have passed the HiSET Practice Tests and who wish to take the HiSET Tests should view the requirements on the HiSET website to apply for HiSET testing. Separate forms are required for homeschooled students.
How long does it take to get the results after a person takes the HiSET Tests?
It should take approximately two weeks for students to see test results.
IMPORTANT NOTE: New Hampshire Certificate of High School Equivalency cannot be obtained via the Internet or through correspondence programs. All testing must be taken in person at an approved HiSET Testing Center.
In January 2014 the State of New Hampshire phased out the GED and now all high school equivalency testing is done using the HiSET. The HiSET is administered at local testing centers in New Hampshire with Laconia Adult Education being one of these centers. This test assesses reading, writing, math, science and social studies. Students who started with the GED but did not finish all tests must start over with the HiSET.
Why take the HiSET exam?
The HiSET exam will provide a high school credential and allow students to attend college and enlist in the military. Many jobs require a high school diploma and the HiSET will provide an affordable option for students who wish to advance their career.
Who can take the HiSET exam?
According to NH rules a student must be 18 years old. Some students may receive approval from their school districts to take HiSET Tests at the age of 16 or 17. Students must be a resident of NH to take the HiSET tests in New Hampshire and to receive a New Hampshire Certificate of High School Equivalency. You do not have to be a citizen to take the test but will need a government-issued ID.
Do I have to attend a HiSET class?
The Continuing and Alternative Education program does not require students to attend a HiSET class but it is strongly recommended. Students who have been out of school for a period of time will benefit from refreshing their math, reading and writing skills as well as subject area knowledge. HiSET preparatory classes are offered twice a week at Salem High School. Our experienced teachers will develop a personal learning plan to prepare students to take the HiSET exam.
Do I have to take a practice test?
A practice test is not required, for testers under the age of 18, but highly recommended so students can gain a greater understanding of the test and the type of questions that are asked. There may be a small fee for taking a practice test. Completing a practice test will help lessen any test anxiety a student may experience. Practice test opportunities are available within the HiSET preparatory classes.
Can I use a calculator when I take the math test?
Calculators are provided for students taking the math portion of the HiSET. Students may not use their own calculators or phones. The math section is all multiple choice.
How much does the test cost?
The state testing fee for the HiSET is $125 and must be paid at registration. The HiSET offered at Laconia High School is either computer or paper-based. If you fail to show up on exam day with no notification, you will forfeit payment for that days exams.
How long will the test take? Do I take the whole test at the same time?
The whole test takes 7 hours to complete. There are 5 subtests required for completion of the exam. Most complete the test in two mornings. Each subtest is multiple choice except for the writing subtest which will require an essay. The subtests can be taken in whatever order you choose. Testing is done M-Thursday in the morning only.
What is required for identification the day of the test?
During the scheduling process, test takers are asked to confirm eligibility requirements. Documents such as a driver’s license, state or government issued ID or passport is an acceptable document and must be brought to the testing center the day of the test. Identification must not be expired. Birth certificates, credit or debit cards, social security cards or student ID’s will not be accepted.
Are accommodations available for students who have a documented disability?
Accommodations are available for test takers with diagnosed disabilities. All test takers requesting any accommodations must register by mail or email through ETS Disability Services and have their accommodations approved before their test can be scheduled. Your request should be submitted as early as possible, especially if you are requesting an alternate test format. Documentation review takes approximately six weeks once your request and complete paperwork have been received. If additional documentation must be submitted, it can be another six weeks from the time the new documentation is received until the review is complete.
Can students who are homeschooled take the HiSET test to be eligible for college?
Homeschooled students who are under 18 and who have passed the HiSET Practice Tests and who wish to take the HiSET Tests should view the requirements on the HiSET website to apply for HiSET testing. Separate forms are required for homeschooled students.
How long does it take to get the results after a person takes the HiSET Tests?
It should take approximately two weeks for students to see test results.
IMPORTANT NOTE: New Hampshire Certificate of High School Equivalency cannot be obtained via the Internet or through correspondence programs. All testing must be taken in person at an approved HiSET Testing Center.
