The High School Finish Line 

High School Equivalency Testing Quick Facts 

• In Massachusetts, both the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) and the General Education Development Test (GED) exam qualify for its high school equivalency (HSE) testing program. 
• Online HiSET or GED testing is not available. You will need to show up at an official MA testing center to take either exam (note: Springfield Technical Community College and Holyoke Community College offer both tests). 
• These exams are intended for people 16+ who did not finish high school or receive a high school diploma. 
• Upon completing either test, examinees will receive a State High School Equivalency Diploma as well as the benefit of competing high school.
• Important note: These tests can be tricky and require preparation and dedication. However,  passing them is very achievable if you are sure to take the time to study! You may want to start preparing a few months in advance to put your best foot forward. 

Benefits of High School Equivalency Testing

• Wondering about the advantages of acquiring a high school equivalency diploma (either GED or HiSET)? Check out this source which outlines potential benefits such as higher monetary earnings and increased employment opportunities.

What is the GED? What is the HiSET? 

• Great question! For MA specific info, watch this video.
• What are the differences between the two tests? 

1. The HiSET has five test sections and the GED has four. 
2. GED testing centers only offer a computer version of the test. 
3. HiSET has both a paper and computer test option. 

• Both exams are nationally recognized and offered in MA, depending on the testing center, here you can compare the two! 
• Click here for more information on the HiSet and here for a link to the GED Blog for Students.

GED & HiSET Test Sections 

GED: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies

HiSET: Language Arts (Reading), Language Arts (Writing), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies 

• Click here for a breakdown of the GED test including format and time allowances.
• Click here  for a breakdown of the HiSET including format and time allowances.

Test Preparation 

• Knowing your learning style can help you to effectively study for any test. Click here for a free Learning Style Quiz. Once you know your style you can study the information in a way that works for you!
• Click here for a link to free GED practice tests and study tips for all 4 content areas!
• Looking for a HiSET practice test, study guide and flashcards for all 5 content areas? Check out this link for just that!
• In person GED & HiSET classes are also offered locally in Springfield at places like STCC, The Springfield Family Support Program, The Springfield Housing Authority, and many more! To check out all of the places offering test practice and support, click here.

Taking the Test 

• Visit this page for information on taking your high school equivalency exam at Holyoke Community College – they offer both the GED and the HiSET.
• Springfield Technical Community College has partnered with the Educational Testing Service to offer the HiSET to adults who are at least 18 years old and have not previously received a high school diploma (16 and 17-year-olds may take the test only if they are no longer enrolled in school). Click here for more information.

Feeling anxious about taking your test? Test Prep Preview may be able to help. Check out their page on test anxiety for tips and tricks to reduce these anxious feelings before taking the exam.