If you’re preparing to take the HiSET exam, understanding how scoring works is an important part of your journey toward earning your high school equivalency credential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about HiSET scores, from when you’ll receive them to what they mean for your future.
When Will You Get Your Scores?
After you complete a HiSET subtest, you won’t have to wait long to see how you did. Your official scores will be available in your HiSET account after a quality check process is completed. Here’s what to expect:
- Multiple-choice subtests: Scores are typically posted within three business days
- Language Arts – Writing subtest: Scores usually appear within five business days (because of the essay component)
- Paper-based tests: These may take longer if your test center doesn’t send answer sheets promptly
To check your scores, simply log into your HiSET account and look for the score reports.
Understanding Passing Scores
Individual Subtest Requirements
To pass each individual subtest, you need to score at least 8 out of 20 points. The HiSET exam has five subtests:
- Language Arts – Reading
- Language Arts – Writing (includes an essay)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
For the Language Arts – Writing subtest, there’s an additional requirement: you must score at least 2 out of 6 points on the essay portion.
Overall HiSET Requirements
Passing individual subtests isn’t enough on its own. To earn your high school equivalency credential, you need to achieve a combined score of at least 45 out of 100 points across all five subtests. This means you need to look at your total performance, not just individual test scores.
Your score reports will clearly show whether you’ve passed each subtest and whether you’ve met the overall requirements.
What Is a College and Career Readiness Score?
The HiSET exam doesn’t just tell you if you passed—it can also show you’re ready for the next level. If you achieve a college and career readiness score, it demonstrates that you’re prepared for credit-bearing college courses.
Here’s what you need for college and career readiness:
- Score at least 15 out of 20 on a subtest
- Score at least 4 out of 6 on the Language Arts – Writing essay
When you hit these benchmarks, it means you scored the same as or higher than 75 percent of graduating high school students. This is a strong indicator that you’re ready to succeed in college-level work.
Understanding Your Score Reports
The HiSET provides two types of score reports, and understanding the difference between them can help you track your progress:
Comprehensive Score Report
Your Comprehensive Score Report is your overall record. It shows your highest scaled score for each subtest and indicates whether you’ve passed the HiSET exam. You only have one Comprehensive Score Report, and it updates automatically each time you:
- Take a new subtest for the first time
- Retake a subtest and earn a better score
Think of this as your “official transcript” that shows your best performance.
Individual Test Reports
Every time you take a subtest, you receive an Individual Test Report. These reports provide detailed information about your performance on that specific test, including:
- Your score on that particular attempt
- Whether you achieved college and career readiness in that content area
- Detailed feedback that can help you improve if you decide to retake the test
If you retake a subtest, you’ll have multiple Individual Test Reports for that subject—one for each attempt.
What If You Don’t Pass a Subtest?
Not passing a subtest on your first try doesn’t mean you can’t succeed. Many students retake subtests to improve their scores. If you need to retake a test, check your state’s requirements to find out:
- How soon you can retake the subtest
- Whether there are any restrictions or waiting periods
- If there are any additional requirements
Each state has different rules, so make sure to review the specific requirements for where you’re testing.
Getting Your High School Equivalency Credential
Once you’ve passed all five HiSET subtests and met your state’s combined score requirement, you’re almost done! However, your state determines the final requirements for earning your credential. Some states may require:
- Passing a civics exam
- Achieving a certain minimum score
- Meeting other state-specific requirements
When you’ve completed all requirements, you’ll receive a high school equivalency diploma or certificate from your state. It will be mailed to the address you provided in your HiSET account, so make sure your contact information is up to date.
Requesting Official Documents
After earning your credential, you may need to provide proof to employers, colleges, or other institutions. If you need official transcripts or additional copies of your diploma or certificate, you’ll need to order them through your state. These official documents carry more weight than printed copies and are required by most colleges and employers.
What’s Next After Earning Your Credential?
Earning your HiSET credential opens doors to many opportunities. Here are some next steps to consider:
Get Guidance and Support
Many testing centers and adult education programs offer advising services to help you plan your future. These advisors can help you explore your options and create a plan that fits your goals.
College or Career Training
With your HiSET credential, you can:
- Apply to colleges and universities
- Enroll in vocational training programs
- Pursue better employment opportunities
- Apply for jobs that require a high school diploma
Continue Your Education
Consider taking your education further by:
- Enrolling in community college courses
- Pursuing vocational or technical training
- Developing new skills to advance your career
Your HiSET credential is just the beginning. It’s a foundation you can build on to reach your personal, educational, and career goals.
HiSET is a registered trademark of PSI Services LLC, which is not affiliated with and does not endorse White Comet Test Prep.