The HiSET exam is one of three high school equivalency tests accepted across the U.S. — alongside the GED and TASC. If you're looking for a HiSET academy or training program to help you pass, you've got more options than you might realize: free adult education classes, online self-paced courses, community college programs, and structured private academies. This guide walks through your prep options and helps you figure out which one fits your situation.
HiSET Quick Facts:
Subtests: 5 (Language Arts – Reading, Language Arts – Writing, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies)
Passing: Score ≥8 on each subtest (out of 20), plus ≥45 total, plus ≥Writing essay score of 2
Format: Computer or paper based; varies by testing site
Administered by: ETS (Educational Testing Service)
Who takes it: Adults without a high school diploma seeking equivalency credential
The most affordable option — and often the best — is your local adult education program. These are typically offered through:
Adult education programs are heavily subsidized (often free) and taught by instructors certified in adult basic education. They cover all five HiSET exam subject areas and are typically offered in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate working adults. They also often provide a direct pathway to exam registration and may even cover testing fees through workforce funding.
To find one near you: visit your state's Department of Education website and search for "adult education" or call 211 (the United Way's social services helpline).
If you can't attend in-person classes, online programs offer flexibility:
ETS Official HiSET Prep: ETS (the company that makes the HiSET) offers official prep materials at hiset.ets.org, including free practice tests, a test preview tool, and a study companion. These are the most directly aligned to the actual exam. Start here regardless of what other resources you use.
Khan Academy: Completely free and excellent for math and science. Khan Academy covers the math content tested on the HiSET (especially algebra, geometry, and data) and science concepts at a level that matches the exam. It's self-paced and available on mobile — ideal if you have limited study time between work and family.
GED.com prep materials: Even though GED and HiSET are different tests, they cover very similar content (both test high school equivalency standards). GED prep resources are widely available and the overlap is significant enough that GED practice materials help HiSET prep — especially for math.
Test prep companies (Kaplan, Peterson's, Magoosh): Several major test prep companies offer HiSET-specific prep courses. These typically include video lessons, practice questions, and full practice tests. Prices range from $50 to $200. These are useful if you want structured curriculum with progress tracking, but free resources from ETS and Khan Academy can be equally effective with discipline.
Many community colleges offer structured HiSET prep as part of their continuing education or workforce development division. These programs typically:
Costs vary — some are free or heavily subsidized through adult education funding; others charge modest fees ($50–$200 for the full program). Contact your local community college's Continuing Education or Workforce Development office directly.
One-on-one tutoring is the highest-cost but most efficient option if you have a specific weak subject. A good tutor working on your exact knowledge gaps can move you faster than any group class. Rates typically run $40–$100/hour. Look for tutors who have experience specifically with adult learners and high school equivalency exams — adult learners often have different anxiety patterns and learning needs than school-age students.
Training programs vary in how much time they spend on each subtest. Here's what you're actually preparing for:
If cost is a constraint: Start with free adult education classes in your area and supplement with Khan Academy and ETS official materials. This combination costs nothing and gives you structured instruction plus self-paced practice.
If schedule is the constraint: Online self-paced prep (Khan Academy + ETS practice tests + a structured online course if needed) gives you maximum flexibility. Many students complete HiSET prep entirely at home, testing when ready.
If math is your main weakness: Dedicate extra time to math — it's the subtest most people struggle with. Khan Academy's Algebra Basics, Geometry, and Statistics courses align directly with HiSET math content. Supplement with ETS HiSET math practice tests.
If writing is your weakness: The Writing subtest includes a 45-minute essay. Practice writing structured argument essays. ETS publishes sample essays with scoring commentary — read those to understand what a "passing" essay looks like. Adult education programs often include writing workshops specifically for this component.
If you have learning differences: ETS accommodations are available for the HiSET (extended time, screen magnification, etc.). Request accommodations when you register. Adult education programs are also experienced at working with learners who have disabilities or learning differences — tell your instructor upfront so they can adjust their approach.
Whether you join a formal program or study independently, a structured personal plan helps you stay on track:
Step 1: Take a diagnostic. ETS's free HiSET practice tests tell you exactly where you stand on each subtest before you invest time in studying. Don't skip this — it shapes everything else.
Step 2: Prioritize your weakest subtests. You need to pass all five, but failing one subtest can be retaken without retaking the others. Put 60–70% of your study time on your two weakest subtests initially.
Step 3: Set a target test date. Register for the exam before you feel "completely ready." Having a test date creates urgency and prevents indefinite postponement. Most students are ready after 6–12 weeks of focused prep (longer for those with significant gaps in foundational skills).
Step 4: Simulate testing conditions. At least twice before your exam date, take a full timed practice subtest under realistic conditions — no interruptions, no phone, timed to the minute. This prepares you for the stamina and focus the real exam requires.
Some students discover partway through HiSET prep that their state also accepts the GED, and wonder whether to switch. A few considerations:
Finish what you started. The exams are equivalent — employers and colleges accept both.