What is the Format?
As of January 2014, the state of Missouri no longer administers the GED and has adopted the HiSET equivalency test. The HiSET is made up of five subject areas: Language Arts--Reading; Language Arts--Writing; Mathematics; Science; and Social Studies. Part II of the Language Arts--Writing section of the HiSET requires that you write a 45 minute essay. The remainder of the test, and the remaining four subtests, consists of multiple choice questions.
How is the Exam Scored and What if I Don't Pass?
According to the Educational Testing Service (ETS) (http://hiset.ets.org/), in order to pass the HiSET one must score an 8 out of 20 on each of the five subtests, score a 2 out of 6 on the essay in the Language Arts--Writing section and attain a score of 45 on all subtests combined. If you fail any or all sections of the test, you are able to re-take the exam up to two more times within a calendar year.
Who is Eligible?
If you are 16 years of age, have completed 16 credits toward high school graduation and have written permission from a school administrator, you are eligible to take the HiSET in Missouri. If you are 17 and have dropped out of school, you are also eligible to take the test.
If homeschooled, you must meet specific course instruction requirements and have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Check the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (https://dese.mo.gov) for these requirements.
How do I Register and What Does it Cost?
According to the ETS, you can register for the HiSET online by creating a My HiSET Account or you can call ETS Customer Service. In Missouri, the cost of the test is $95, which reflects a $60 registration fee and $7 for each of the five subtests. The registration fee covers the taking of the test up to three times within a 12-month period. If you need to retake any section of the test more than two times within the year, an additional $7 for each section must be paid.
How do I Prepare?
You can find test preparation materials at www.hiset.ets.org. Materials include videos, practice test, sample questions and test-taking tips. The Official Guide to the HiSET Exam can be purchased as a paperback or Kindle edition. You can also contact a local Adult Education Center for HiSET test preparation support.
