GED vs HiSET: which high school equivalency test should you take?
Last checked October 16, 2026 · Sources: GED.com curriculum, GED scores and retake FAQ; HiSET scores page and About HiSET; Elgin Community College (Illinois fee example)
GED vs HiSET: both earn a high school equivalency credential, but they’re built differently. The GED has four subjects scored 100 to 200, with 145 needed on each, and is computer-based. The HiSET has five subtests scored 1 to 20, needing 8 on each, 45 in total and 2 out of 6 on the essay. Which you can take depends on your state, and fees vary widely.
GED vs HiSET side by side
| GED | HiSET | |
|---|---|---|
| Developer | GED Testing Service | ETS |
| Parts | 4: Math, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, Social Studies | 5: Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies |
| Scoring | 100 to 200 per subject | 1 to 20 per subtest |
| To pass | 145 on each subject | 8 on each subtest, 45 combined, and 2 of 6 on the essay |
| Question types | Multiple choice plus drag-and-drop, fill-in and an essay | Mostly multiple choice, plus an essay |
| Format | Computer, at a test center or online in many states | Computer, and paper in some states |
| Fees | Set by state; GED.com says typically $30 to $40 per subject | Set by state; for example, $10 per subtest in Illinois |
| Practice test | GED Ready, $7.99 per subject | Official practice tests on hiset.org |
From GED.com and hiset.org, checked October 16, 2026. Fees and availability are set by each state.
How the passing standards differ
The GED’s rule is simple: score 145 or more in each subject. The HiSET has three conditions you must meet at once. Scoring exactly 8 on all five subtests isn’t enough, because that totals 40 and you need 45, so you must score higher somewhere. You also need at least 2 out of 6 on the writing essay. On the other hand, the HiSET lets a strong subject make up the total, as long as no subtest falls below 8.
Which should you take?
- Check what your state offers first. Some states offer only one test, some offer both. Your state’s education department or adult education office will say.
- Compare the price where you live. State fees differ a lot; in Illinois, for example, one college lists $30 per GED test against $10 per HiSET subtest.
- Think about format. The GED is computer-only but can be taken online in many states; the HiSET is also offered on paper in some states.
- Think about your strengths. The HiSET splits language arts into separate reading and writing subtests; the GED combines them in one longer test.
What’s the same
Both lead to a state-issued high school equivalency credential, both cover similar subjects, and both let you take one part at a time rather than all on one day. Total testing time is roughly seven hours for each. If you pass in a state that offers both tests, the credential is the same.
Common questions about GED vs HiSET
Is the HiSET easier than the GED?
Neither is officially easier; they’re built differently. The GED needs 145 on each of four subjects; the HiSET needs 8 on each of five subtests, 45 in total, and 2 on the essay.
Can I choose either test in any state?
Usually not. Each state decides which tests it offers, and some offer only one.
Which is cheaper, the GED or HiSET?
It depends on your state. Fees are set locally; in Illinois, one college lists $10 per HiSET subtest and $30 per GED test.
Are the GED and HiSET credentials the same?
Both lead to a high school equivalency credential issued by your state.
See also our GED guide, GED cost and GED format and scoring. MockTestPrep is independent and is not affiliated with GED Testing Service or ETS.