Read time: 5 minutes
Your path to a brighter future is wide open, and you have some amazing choices ahead. If you are looking to finish your education, you have probably heard a few different terms floating around. You might hear people talk about getting a GED, taking the HiSET, or earning a high school diploma online.
It is completely normal to feel a little confused by all these letters and acronyms! Life gets busy, and sometimes high school gets put on hold. The great news is that it is never too late to make a change.
In this guide, we will break down what the HiSET is, how it compares to the GED, and whether you can take online classes for it. We will also look at the pros and cons of these tests compared to earning a real high school diploma online through a program like Smart Schools, so you can better see which path may fit your goals. Let’s dive in!
What is the HiSET Test?
First things first: what does HiSET stand for? It stands for the High School Equivalency Test.
Just like the famous GED, the HiSET is a state-issued exam designed for adults who did not finish high school. When you pass the HiSET, you earn a certificate that states you have the same academic knowledge as a traditional high school graduate. Employers, trade schools, colleges, and the military almost always accept this certificate just like they would a regular diploma.
The HiSET is broken down into five different subject tests:
Language Arts – Reading: Testing how well you understand what you read.
Language Arts – Writing: Testing your grammar skills and your ability to write an essay.
Mathematics: Testing basic math, algebra, and geometry.
Science: Testing your understanding of life science, earth science, and physical science.
Social Studies: Testing history, government, and economics.
One of the neatest things about the HiSET is that it can be taken on a computer or on old-fashioned paper and pencil, depending on what your state offers
HiSET vs. GED: What’s the Difference?
You might be wondering, “If they both give you a high school equivalency certificate, how are they different?” Think of them like two similar brands with a few differences, like Coke and Pepsi. Both do the same basic job, but they are set up a little differently.
Number of Tests: The GED has four sections, while the HiSET has five. The HiSET splits reading and writing into two separate tests, while the GED combines them into one English test.
Format: The GED is almost always taken on a computer. The HiSET gives you the choice to take it on paper in many testing locations, which can be a huge relief if you aren’t super comfortable typing.
Cost: Depending on where you live, the HiSET is often a little bit cheaper than the GED.
State Availability: Not every state offers both tests. Some states only allow the GED, some only allow the HiSET, and some give you a choice. In Arizona, for example, you need to check which specific sites host which test.
Are There Online Classes Available for the HiSET?
Yes, there are many online classes and study programs available to help you prepare for the HiSET.
Because the HiSET is a major test, you don’t want to just walk in and try to pass it without studying. Online prep classes are fantastic because they let you study from the comfort of your own home, on your own schedule. You can watch video lessons, practice math problems, and take practice tests on your phone or computer.
Additionally, many states now offer HiSET@Home. This means that if you have a reliable computer, a webcam, and a quiet room, you can take the real, official test online at home while a proctor watches you through your webcam to ensure everything is fair.
The Big Choice: HiSET/GED vs. An Online High School Diploma
Now that you know what the HiSET and GED are, let’s talk about your other option: earning a real high school diploma online through a program like Smart Schools.
Many people think a test like the HiSET is their only choice if they dropped out, but that isn’t true! Let’s compare taking a test with finishing your actual high school diploma.
Option A: Taking the HiSET or GED Test
The Pros:
It can be fast: If you study hard and pass all the sections on your first try, you can get your certificate in a matter of weeks.
Good for good test-takers: If you are someone who naturally does well on big exams, this might feel like a straightforward path.
The Cons:
High-stakes stress: Your entire future relies on one big, scary test. If you get nervous during tests, you might freeze up, even if you know the material.
It costs money: You usually have to pay a fee for every single section of the test. If you fail a section, you have to pay again to retake it.
It’s not a full diploma: While it is equal to a diploma, some jobs or specific military branches may prefer a traditional high school diploma and a full transcript of classes.
Option B: Earning an Online Diploma with Smart Schools
The Pros:
No giant test: You do not have to pass one massive, stressful exam to graduate. Instead, you earn your diploma by completing your regular classes one step at a time.
You get a personal mentor: When you join Smart Schools, you aren’t left to figure things out alone. You get a mentor whose only job is to encourage you, help you stay on track, and cheer you on.
Work at your own pace: You can log in late at night, early in the morning, or on weekends. You can work around your job and your family.
Real high school diploma: You graduate with a real high school diploma and a graduation ceremony where you can wear a cap and gown!
The Cons:
It takes time: You can’t finish it in a single weekend. You have to earn the credits you missed when you left high school, which takes consistent effort over a few months or more.
Which Path is Right for You?
If you want to get your education done in a hurry and you don’t mind the stress of a big test, online classes for the HiSET or GED might be a good fit.
But if you want a supportive environment where you can learn at your own speed, get help from real teachers and mentors, and earn a real high school diploma without the pressure of a high-stakes exam, Smart Schools is here for you.
No matter which path you choose, the most important thing is that you are taking steps forward. The takeaway is that finishing your education matters, and you are proving to yourself, your family, and the world that you can see what you started through to the end.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Find out how Smart Schools can help you accomplish your goal and how we can help you cross that graduation stage and move toward your future! You might be surprised how many of your past high school credits can transfer directly into our program!