Are you in need of getting your high school equivalency completed? Have you considered a GED? How about a HiSET? Well, before you do, let’s check out the differences between the two.
In premise, both of these tests will result in you getting your equivalency credential. However, these tests are different, and some people might prefer one over the other.
But to do so, we first need to take a look at each. In this GED vs HiSet article, we are going to do just that.
So if you’re interested in taking your education to the next level, keep reading.
Do Employers Or Educational Institutions Care About the Test I Take?
No. A big fat no. As stated earlier, both of these tests will results in you acquiring your high school equivalency credential, given that you pass your exam. Employers and educational institutions do not look at the type of test you took, not even the scores that you got.
They will simply take a look at the proof that you have taken the initiative to obtain your credential, and that’s that.
GED vs HiSet
It would be obvious to think that because both exams lead to the same outcome, an equivalency credential, that the content of each exam would similar.
However, that’s not true. The most recent rendition of the GED test consists of four subject areas, such as science, mathematical reasoning, social studies, and reasoning through language arts.
Whereas, the HiSet resembles the older rendition of GED that had five subject areas. In any case, the other aspects and question set-ups for the tests are practically the same. So even though there is a difference, it’s not excitingly vivid.
So Which Test Is the One For Me?
As mentioned earlier, the tests that are valid for you will depend on the state of your residence. For instance, only 12 states are offering the HiSet, and they are Nevada, Missouri, Montana, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Iowa, California, Louisiana, Maine, New Jersey, Wyoming, and Tennessee.
Also, make sure to log into the ETS website so that you can learn about the specific regulations and rules of each state in regard to either test. If you take the HiSet in Missouri, but plan on moving to a state where the test is not offered, do not worry about your credential becoming void or null.
Once you receive the credential, it does not matter where you and what type of test you took, your credential will be valid regardless.
If money is a concern, you will be surprised to hear that both of the tests must come with a fee. But if you fail your GED, depending on the state of residence, when you retake it, you might be required to pay another fee or not at all.
For the HiSet test, after paying your interstitial fee, you are allowed two free retakes if necessary.
Will Taking the HiSet Result In Getting Credential?
The HiSet exam has risen from the many years of Educational Testing Services and serves as a direct competitor to the GED. So in premise, it does not matter what test you take: GED, HiSet, or TASC, it’s all the same. As long as you pass your test, you will receive your credential.
However, there is a serious concern regarding HiSet, and that’s the fact that not all states recognize it officially. This means you will not be able to make use of it for the purposes of getting your credential.
Here are some of the states that do recognize HiSet: Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Colorado, California, Louisiana, Michigan, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, Missouri, etc.
To learn more about which states are or are not part of the network, visit the ETS website. They have a wide variety of useful information for high school equivalency seekers. Learn how to get a GED certificate fast.
Let’s continue with the difference between GED vs HiSet.
Is the Exam Hard?
If you were to compare HiSet vs GED on the premise of difficulty, this would be it. Comparing the three equivalency exams, the HiSet is most similar to the old GED in content and format.
Much like the old version, the questions are direct, reading passages short, essay prompts open. However, the HiSet is based on the Common Core State Standards, thus the test taker must have the previous knowledge of the content to score appropriately.
The fact that HiSet resembles the simple old GED does not mean that it’s easier than the other tests. Like any other exam, the students who pass these exams, specifically the HiSet are showing that their academic skills are within 60% of the top high school graduates.
To pass the test, an individual must score at least 8 out of 20 on all of the subjects and must have a score of at least 45. You cannot pass the test by only getting a minimum for each of the subjects.
If you ever wondered if you are ready to take a college-level course, a score of 15 or more in each subject means that you have met the Readiness Standard. You will see your marks on the Individual Test Report after the exam.
Equivalence Acquired
Now that you have witnessed the battle of the GED vs HiSet, you have most likely come to realize that they are equal combatants. In any case, as long as you reside in a recognized state, it does not matter which test you take. You will receive the same outcome, and most rightfully, the outcome that you deserve (if you pass). Good luck with your exam.
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