HiSET (High School Equivalency Test)

Unlock New Opportunities

The HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) is a series of five tests designed to measure your knowledge and skills in key areas typically taught in high school. If you pass the HiSET, you earn a High School Equivalency Diploma that is recognized by employers and colleges as equivalent to a high school diploma.

The five subjects tested are reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies.

Before taking the HiSET, you'll need to enroll in the High School Completion Program. This will help you complete the required coursework and get ready for the test. You'll work with your High School Completion teacher to decide when you're ready to start testing.

The HiSET is a computer-based test that you'll take at the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center. The High School Completion Program will help you improve your computer skills and get you ready for success on the test.

Age Requirement: You must be at least 17 years old to take the HiSET tests, as per Iowa law.
Cost: Each of the five subtests costs $18.
Minimum Scores: To pass the HiSET, you need to score at least 8 on each test and a total score of 45 or more across all five tests.
Testing Times: The HiSET is offered Monday–Thursday at the following times:
- Monday and Wednesday at 12 PM and 2 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday at 12 PM, 3 PM, and 5:30 PM
Test Day: On the day of your test:
- Arrive at least five minutes before the testing time.
- Check-in at the Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center Assessment Center, room 203.
- Bring a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID, like your driver's license, for check-in.

Schedule your HiSET Appointment

Once you pass all five HiSET tests with at least an 8 on each test and a total score of 45, you'll earn your High School Equivalency diploma and be eligible to join the graduation ceremony in June.

If you're under the age of 18, you won't be able to receive your diploma until you turn 18 or until the class you started ninth grade with has graduated. However, you may request transcripts and letters of verification before that.

To request your High School Equivalency diploma, transcript, or letter of verification, go to www.diplomasender.com. A $20 fee applies for diplomas and transcripts.

Our Transition Specialist will assist you in setting educational and career goals and guide you through the process of transitioning into college or other career opportunities.

We're here to make sure that earning your diploma is the first step toward achieving your goals.

Check out our Transition Services

Beware of Online Testing Scams

Official HiSET tests are not offered online. While the test is computer-based, it must be taken at an approved Iowa testing center, such as the Hawkeye Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center. Avoid falling for scams that ask for large payments to take the High School Equivalency test online!

Improving Local Job Opportunities

Hawkeye's Adult Education and Literacy Program is part of the Iowa Workforce Development and IowaWORKS system as Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title II.

The Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA) is the largest federal investment in adult education and literacy. The Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education at the U. S. Department of Education administers this program.