Resources for Test Taker
Get familiar with the HiSET exam and find tools to help you prepare with confidence.
Have Questions? See our FAQs
Resources
Guide
Testing Accommodations
Review the Accommodations process to ensure the allowable accommodations for HiSET is provided.
FAQ, Guide, Scores
HiSET Test Taker Bulletin
Learn more about the rules and policies of taking the HiSET exam.
FAQ, Guide, Scores
Individual Score Report Sample
Use this document to understand how to read your Individual Test Report.
FAQs
I do not live in a HiSET state, can I still take the HiSET exam?
Yes, you may be able to take the HiSET exam out-of-state. Several states do not have residency requirements and if you can meet their other state requirements, will allow you to cross state borders to test in-person or take an online-proctored test from your location.
States without in-state residency requirements include:
- Colorado
- Georgia (does not offer paper-based tests)
- Hawaii (does not offer online-proctored tests)
- Iowa (has other eligibility requirements)
- Louisiana
- Maine (has other eligibility requirements and does not offer online-proctored tests)
- Michigan
- Minnesota (has other eligibility requirement for paper-based tests)
- Mississippi
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Wyoming
When you take the HiSET exam in another state, you will earn a credential from the state you last tested and you must meet all of their HSE credentialing requirements.
Will my high school equivalency credential be accepted in another state?
Yes! Your state-issued official high school equivalency credential is recognized nationwide. No matter where you earned it, your credential is valis and will be accepted in any state by employers and academic institutions—so you don’t need to take the test again.
Can I take the HiSET® exam if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Yes! U.S. citizenship is not required to take the HiSET exam. However, some states and jurisdictions have residency requirements. Check State Requirements to see if you meet all the eligibility and ID requirements.
Can I switch to the HiSET® exam if I’ve already taken subtests from another exam?
That will depend on a few different things:
It depends on a few factors, including:
- Which high school equivalency test(s) your new state offers
- Whether your state allows you to combine scores from different tests
- How many subtests you’ve already completed
Some states don’t offer the HiSET exam, and others may not allow you to mix scores from different tests. If you’re close to finishing your current exam, you may decide to stick with it.
If your state does allow you to switch to the HiSET exam, our Test Taker Services team will help you access your previous subtest scores. Your test center and our study resources can also help you get familiar with the HiSET exam. Check Requirements by State or Jurisdiction to see what’s available in your state.
Do I need a HiSET® account? What can I do with it?
Yes! A HiSET account is required because HiSET score reports are only available online. Your account also helps you stay on track throughout the testing process.
With a HiSET account, you can:
- Find a test center
- Schedule and pay for a test (in some states)
- View appointment confirmations
- Reschedule or cancel a test (in some states)
- Check your order history
- Print your score reports
- Update your profile information
Why is the name I use to create an account so important?
The name you use when creating your HiSET® account must exactly match (excluding accents) the name on the ID you’ll present on test day.
If your name doesn’t match, you may not be allowed to test or your scores could be canceled after you take the exam. Double-check your name when signing up to avoid any issues.
I spelled my name wrong or my name has changed. How do I fix it?
For security reasons, you can’t change your name in your HiSET® account yourself—even to fix a misspelling. To update your name, contact PSI Customer Service. You’ll need to provide documentation showing your correct or new name.
If you don’t want to update your name and prefer to test under your previous name, you must bring valid ID that matches it on test day. If your ID doesn’t match, you won’t be allowed to test.
How do I update my profile information?
To make changes before your test, sign in to your myHiSET® account.
If you need assistance, contact your local test center or PSI Customer Service for support.
Is the HiSET® online system secure?
Yes! We use multiple security measures to keep your information safe:
- Secure login – Each user is authenticated with a unique username and password.
- Automatic logout – If you’re inactive for 30 minutes, the system will close your session.
- Encrypted transactions – Your credit card information is protected with standard secure encryption when making payments.
- The HiSET online account is compatible with the following browsers:
- Windows® 7/8.1/10 – IE 11
- Latest Version of Chrome™, Firefox®, Microsoft Edge, Mac® OS X/iOS – Safari®
What if I forget my HiSET® username?
No worries! Just follow these steps:
- Go to the sign-in page and click “Forgot Username” under “Returning Users.”
- Enter the email address you used for your HiSET account.
- Check your email—you’ll receive a message with your username. (It may take a few minutes to arrive.)
If you don’t see the email, check your spam or junk folder just in case.
What if I forget my HiSET® password?
If you forget your password, follow these steps to reset it:
- Go to the sign-in page and click “Forgot Password” under “Returning Users.”
- Enter your username and the email address linked to your myHiSET account.
- Answer the security question you selected when creating your account.
- Create a new password and sign in.
If you don’t receive a reset email, check your spam or junk folder before trying again.
Can I change my password on the website?
Yes! Simply sign in to your HiSET® account, click “Change Password” on your home page, and follow the instructions to update it.
Why did I get signed out while scheduling my appointment?
For security reasons, your HiSET® session automatically expires after 30 minutes of inactivity. If this happens, you’ll be redirected to the sign-in page and will need to log in again.
How do I print a receipt for my HiSET® exam?
- Log in to your myHiSET account.
- Click the “Manage” tab in the top left corner.
- On the “Manage Tests” screen, select the HiSET subtest you need a receipt for.
- From the “Bookings” screen, click “Print Receipt.”
- The receipt will open in a new tab, where you can print or download it for your records.
What is a HiSET Test Voucher?
A HiSET Test Voucher is a prepaid form of payment provided by a third party—you can’t buy one yourself.
Test vouchers are not transferable and can only be used by the person they were issued to.
Can I switch from a computer-delivered test to a paper-delivered test?
Yes, if your state and test center offers both formats. However, you must request the change before test day—you can’t switch formats when you arrive at the test center.
Some states require you to cancel your original appointment and schedule a new one in the other format. Check Requirements by State or Jurisdiction for details on switching test formats.
How do I prove I’m eligible to take the HiSET® exam?
When scheduling your appointment, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve reviewed and understand your state’s eligibility requirements.
On test day, your identity will be verified at the test center using valid identification and other required documents. Be sure to check with your test center ahead of time to know which documents you’ll need to bring.
Does canceling my HiSET® appointment count as a retake?
No, canceling an appointment does not count as one of your two retakes. However, rescheduling your appointment does count toward your total allowed attempts for the year.
How will I know if my test is canceled due to bad weather or a natural disaster?
In most cases, PSI will contact you if your appointment is canceled. If not, your test center will reach out with updates.
I missed my test due to a natural disaster or local event. Can I reschedule without a penalty?
Yes. PSI understands that some events are beyond your control and has processes in place to help you reschedule without penalty. Contact Test Taker Services for assistance.
Do adult education courses cost money?
It depends on where you live. Most states offer free adult education courses, while others may charge a fee. Check with programs in your area to learn more about costs.
If my name changed due to marriage or another reason, should I bring my marriage license?
No. A marriage license is not valid ID for testing.
If your name has changed, contact PSI before test day and provide a copy of your marriage license so they can update your HiSET® account. Your account name must match the ID you bring on test day, or you won’t be allowed to test.
What documents are NOT accepted as ID?
The following cannot be used as primary or supplemental ID:
- Photocopied documents
- International driver’s licenses
- Draft classification cards
- International student IDs
- Credit or debit cards
- Notary-prepared letters or documents
- Birth certificates
- Social Security cards
Make sure to bring a valid primary ID that meets the HiSET® ID requirements on test day.
Can I use an expired driver’s license as ID?
In some states, yes, but you may need additional documentation or supplemental ID.
Check the Identification Requirements for details on what’s accepted in your state before test day.
Can I use a calculator on the HiSET® exam?
Yes, but you can’t bring your own. Your test center will provide a calculator for you to use during the test.
Are there storage areas or lockers for personal items at the test center?
Many test centers have storage areas or lockers where you can store personal items; however, not all do. Ask your test center before test day so you can plan ahead.
Can I wear head coverings or headgear during the HiSET® exam?
Yes. Head coverings for religious or medical purposes are allowed, including hats, turbans, scarves, and yarmulkes. However, you cannot remove or place anything inside your head covering during the test.
Can I take a break during the HiSET® exam?
You’ll get scheduled breaks between subtests if you’re taking more than one in a single session.
Unscheduled or extended breaks are generally not allowed. If you need a break, you must get permission from test center staff, but the exam clock will not stop—you won’t get extra time.
While on a break, you cannot use your phone or any electronic, recording, listening, or photographic devices.
What happens if there is misconduct during my test session?
Test centers must maintain order and security. If a test taker violates policies or causes a disturbance, they may be dismissed from the session, and PSI will receive a report of the incident. Test fees will not be refunded, and scores will not be reported.
Examples of misconduct include:
- Using testing aids
- Giving or receiving information
- Discussing test content during a break
- Disrupting the test session
If a disturbance occurs while you’re testing, the test center administrator will work to resolve the issue. You should not be penalized for others’ misconduct.
How can I access my HiSET® scores?
Your scores are available in your myHiSET® account.
If you don’t have internet access or need assistance, contact your test center or call PSI Customer Service at 1-855-MyHiSET (1-855-694-4738).
What is a college and career-readiness score?
If you score at least 15 out of 20 on any subtest and at least 4 out of 6 on the essay, you earn a College and Career Readiness score.
This means you scored in the 75th percentile of graduating high school students and are likely prepared for college-level, credit-bearing coursework.
Why do I have two different HiSET® score reports?
Each score report serves a different purpose:
Comprehensive Score Report – This is your official record that shows your highest scaled score for each subtest and whether you passed the HiSET exam. Schools and employers may request this report. It updates each time you take or retake a subtest and improve your score.
Individual Test Report – This provides detailed feedback for each subtest to help you understand your performance. It also shows whether you’ve earned a College and Career Readiness score. You’ll receive a new report each time you take a subtest, including retakes.
Which HiSET® score report is my official record?
Your state will issue your official transcript.
The Comprehensive Score Report serves as your detailed record of all subtests taken, your highest scores, and your overall HiSET performance. It also shows whether you passed the exam and if you earned a College and Career Readiness score.
Are my HiSET® scores automatically sent to schools or employers?
Your scores are automatically sent to your test center and your state administrator’s office.
If you need to send your scores to a college or employer, contact PSI Customer Service or your test center to request a score report.
What is a scaled score?
A scaled score allows for fair comparisons across different versions of the HiSET® exam. It is calculated by statistically adjusting and converting raw scores onto a common scale.
To learn more, visit HiSET Scores.
Why didn’t I pass the Language Arts – Writing test if I got a passing score?
To pass the Language Arts – Writing test, you must meet both of these requirements on the same test date:
- Score at least 8 out of 20 on the multiple-choice section
- Score at least 2 out of 6 on the essay section
If you didn’t score at least 2 on the essay, you won’t pass, even if your total score is 8 or higher. Scores from different test dates cannot be combined.
How can I challenge my HiSET® scores?
If you believe your scores were reported incorrectly, you can request a review for a fee.
Available score review services:
- Essay Scoring Review – $25 per essay (Computer and Paper Based Tests)
- A trained scorer will re-evaluate your essay to ensure it follows HiSET scoring rules.
- If your score changes (higher or lower), the new score will be reported, and your fee will be refunded.
- Essays are not available for disclosure, and each essay can be reviewed only once.
- Multiple-Choice Scoring Review – $25 per test (Paper-Based Tests Only)
- A trained scorer will hand-score your test.
- If your score changes, the new score will be reported, and your fee will be refunded.
- Test responses are not available for disclosure, and each test can be reviewed only once.
Note: Multiple – choice computer-delivered tests cannot be reviewed, as they are scored and verified electronically.
To request a score review, call PSI Customer Service at 1-855-MyHiSET (1-855-694-4738).
Where can I find information about HiSET® scoring policies?
For details on scoring policies, check the HiSET Test Taker Bulletin (PDF).
How do I get my high school equivalency credential or transcript?
To request your transcript or credential, follow the instructions for your state or territory at the link below.
Prep Providers
Essential Education — The official test prep provider for the HiSET® exam
The HiSET Academy® Online Learning Program, from Essential Education, is a customized, adaptive learning program that can be used to supplement Adult Education Courses or fully support independent study. Access to the HiSET Academy includes:
- Diagnostic Assessment — After working through the pre-assessment and personalized learning plan, you take the built-in practice test evaluating depth of knowledge. Based on your responses, specific HiSET Academy lessons and Essential Skills Workbook practice are prescribed to help you improve.
- Interactive Instruction — Over 200 hours of lessons in math, reading, writing, science and social studies. This functions as a personal tutor for the adult learner.
For Instructors Only
Working with the HiSET® program, Essential Education brings you the online HiSET Academy® Official Practice Test designed to measure readiness for the HiSET exam, providing adult learners and instructors pinpoint diagnostics for improvement. Essential Education is the exclusive provider of this online study tool that:
- Covers all five curriculum subjects
- Aligns to the format and structure of the HiSET exam
- Provides actionable feedback on learning gaps and areas of proficiency
- Links to HiSET Academy lessons for further study (additional purchase may apply)
Aztec Learning System
The Aztec Learning System, from Aztec Software®, offers free cloud-based practice tests that can help you experience what it’s like to take the HiSET exam.
Common Core Achieve
Common Core Achieve, from McGraw-Hill Education, is made up of Core Subject Modules, corresponding online lessons and Exercise Books that mirror the scope and format of the HiSET exam.
Fast Forward™
Fast Forward, from KET — Kentucky Educational Television®, helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses, so you’ll know where you’re ready and where you need to work harder.
i-Pathways: Learning Pathways in Adult Education
i-Pathways: Learning Pathways in Adult Education, from the Center for the Application of Information Technologies, Western Illinois University, offers you online or offline technology-driven test preparation.
New Readers Press HiSET® Exam Preparation
New Readers Press offers digital and print solutions to help you succeed on the HiSET® exam.
Test Prep Books
Our comprehensive study guide is designed with the test taker in mind.
The Official Guide to the HiSET® Exam, 2nd Edition
The Official Guide to the HiSET® Exam has been updated to reflect the current exam and is a one-of-a-kind resource — the only guide created by our test makers and the only guide that shows you exactly what the real exam is like. It is designed to help you do your best on test day.
You can buy a paperback copy of The Official Guide to the HiSET Exam through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and at Barnes and Noble bookstores.
HiSET is featured on PSI’s Podcast
In an inspiring episode of Tried and Tested, host Isabelle Gonthier and guests explore how New Mexico is transforming its adult education landscape—tackling systemic barriers, passing groundbreaking legislation, and creating bold new pathways through programs like HiSET.
Everything test takers need to know about HiSET.
Get the full details on the HiSET exam and how to earn your high school equivalency credential in the HiSET Test Taker Bulletin. Download it now to be prepared for test day!