High School Completion Program

What is the HiSET?

The HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) is an exam that shows you have the same knowledge and skills as someone who graduated high school. Passing it can open doors to more education, job training, or better career opportunities.

How It Works

To earn your High School Equivalency Diploma through the HiSET (formerly the GED program), you'll take classes to build your skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. You'll also learn basic computer skills to prepare for the computer-based HiSET exam.

Whether you just left school or it's been years since you've been in a classroom, we're here to help you improve your skills and reach your goals.

How Long Will It Take?

The time it takes to earn your diploma depends on your starting point and how much effort you put into studying, attending classes, and doing homework. Some students finish in just a few months, while others may need more time. Every student's journey is unique, and we'll be here to support you every step of the way!

Class Details

• Cost: Classes are completely free! When you're ready to take the HiSET, each of the five subtests costs $18.
• Schedule: Choose from morning or evening classes to fit your schedule.
• Attendance: Success starts with showing up—be on time and attend every day!

Upcoming Classes

• Session 1 classes begin on July 6, 2026. Registration closes on June 4, 2026.
• Session 2 classes begin on September 28, 2026. Registration closes on September 10, 2026.
• Session 3 classes begin on January 11, 2027. Registration closes on December 10, 2026.
• Session 4 classes begin on April 5, 2027. Registration closes on March 11, 2027.

Steps to Enroll

Ready to start your journey on the HiSET Pathway to earn your high school equivalency diploma? Here's how to get started:

1. Register: You can register online or visit the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center during these hours:
   • Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 AM – 7 PM
   • Wednesdays: 9 AM – 4 PM
2. Attend Orientation: Join us for a two-hour orientation session to get all the details you need.
3. Schedule an Assessment: Take the next step by setting up an assessment to determine your starting point.
4. Attend Class: Be sure to attend class during the first week to get off to a strong start!

Taking the HiSET

Once you've completed the coursework in the High School Completion Program, you'll be ready to take the HiSET exam. This test is the final step to earning your High School Equivalency Diploma!

Your teacher will work with you to determine when you're prepared to begin testing, and we'll support you through practice tests and assessments.

With the knowledge and skills you've gained in this program, you'll be set up for success when you're ready to schedule your HiSET test.

Get the information you need about the HiSET

The High School Equivalency Diploma by Credit Pathway is for students who have completed at least 36 high school credits and are working toward earning their diploma.

Eligible credits include:

• Post-secondary credits
• High school credits already earned
• Credits earned while enrolled in the Credit Pathway
• Work-site learning credits that count as electives

If you need more than a few credits to graduate, the HiSET Pathway might be a better fit for you.

Classes

• Minimum Requirement: You must take at least two high school-level courses. Some students may need to complete additional courses based on transcript evaluations and Iowa Department of Education requirements.
• Course Format: Courses are offered online, and you'll have access to an instructor for tutoring and advising. All tests will be proctored at the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center or through remote proctoring services.
• Additional Support: You'll meet with the Career Pathway Specialist and Transition Specialist throughout the program.
• Timeline: Each course must be finished within 16 weeks and typically takes 40–60 hours to complete.

Steps to Enroll

Ready to start your journey on the Credit Pathway to earn your high school equivalency diploma? Here's how to get started:

1. Register: You can register online or visit the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center during these hours:
   • Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 AM – 7 PM
   • Wednesdays: 9 AM – 4 PM
2. Attend Orientation: Join us for a three-hour orientation session to get all the details you need.
3. Schedule an Assessment: Take the next step by setting up an assessment to determine your starting point.
4. Submit an Official High School Transcript: Transcripts must be sent directly from your high school or through a secure third-party service to:
   • Hawkeye Community College
     Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center
     Attn: Manager of AEL Enrollment and Assessment Services
     120 Jefferson Street
     Waterloo, IA 50701
   • Hand-delivered transcripts, even if sealed, are considered unofficial.
   • We'll review your transcripts to determine which courses and how many credits are needed for you to complete your High School Equivalency Diploma.
5. Pay the Annual $75 Fee

The High School Equivalency Diploma through the Foreign Postsecondary Degree Pathway is for Iowa residents who have a postsecondary degree from outside the United States, equivalent to an associate degree or higher, and wish to earn an Iowa High School Equivalency Diploma.

Steps to Enroll

1. Register: You can register online or visit the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center during these hours:
   • Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 AM – 7 PM
   • Wednesdays: 9 AM – 4 PM

2. Provide Proof of Residency in Iowa: To qualify, participants must have been residents of Iowa for at least 90 days. You'll need to provide two forms of documentation, such as:

   • Iowa income tax return
   • Utility bill
   • Iowa driver's license
   • Iowa vehicle registration
   • Iowa voter registration card
   • Proof of Iowa Homestead credit on property taxes
   • Notarized letter from your employer or a signed statement from you describing your employment and sources of support in Iowa
3. Complete CASAS Reading and Listening Tests: To move forward, participants must score at least 211 in reading and 210 in listening. If you don't meet the minimum we'll help you enroll in the English Language Learning program and you can retake the CASAS tests when you're ready.
4. Provide Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Accepted documents include a Naturalization certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or U.S. birth certificate. Non-citizens can still apply. We'll work with you to sign up for an appropriate citizenship course and complete a semester of English Language Learning classes.
5. Attend Orientation: During orientation you'll meet with the Career Pathway Specialist to discuss your career interests and set goals for your future.
6. Transcript Translation and Evaluation: You will meet with the Transition Specialist to connect with a third-party foreign credential service to evaluate and translate your transcripts. Hawkeye Community College does not evaluate foreign transcripts. You are responsible for all fees charged by the third-party credential service; no fees will be collected by Hawkeye Community College.