In the US, you need about 40–45% correct to pass the HiSET (High School Equivalency Test)—but it’s not a simple percentage. This US-based guide explains what percent to pass HiSET, how scoring works, and exactly what you need on each subtest.
HiSET Passing Score: Not a Percent, a Scaled Score
The HiSET does NOT use percent correct like a school test. Each of the 5 subtests is scored on a 1–20 scale.
| Requirement | US Standard |
|---|---|
| Pass per subtest | 8 out of 20 |
| Essay (Writing only) | 2 out of 6 |
| Total minimum | 45 out of 100 |
No direct %, but 8/20 = ~40% of possible points, and most test-takers answer ~45–50% of questions correctly to hit that mark.
What Percent of Questions Must You Get Right?
| Subtest | Questions | ~% Correct to Pass (8/20) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 40–50 | 45–50% |
| Writing (MC only) | 50 | 45% |
| Math | 50–55 | 40–45% |
| Science | 50–60 | 45–50% |
| Social Studies | 50 | 45% |
Bottom line: Answer just under half the questions correctly → you pass. Essay: Write a clear 5-paragraph response → 2/6 is easy.
US HiSET Score Levels Explained
| Level | Score per Subtest | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Below Passing | 1–7 | Retake |
| Passing | 8–14 | High school equivalency |
| College Ready | 15–20 | No remedial classes |
| College Ready + Credit | 15–20 + 4+/6 essay | Possible college credit |
80% of US test-takers pass on first try (ETS, 2023).
How HiSET Converts Raw % to Scaled Score
- Raw score → number correct
- Equating → adjusts for test version difficulty
- Scaled score → 1–20
Example:
- Answer 23/50 in Math (~46%)
- Scaled score = 8 → PASS
Pro Tips to Pass HiSET (US Standards)
- Focus on Math & Writing — lowest pass rates
- Use free practice tests at hiset.org
- Aim for 10/20 per test → safety buffer
- Essay: Intro + 3 points + conclusion = 2/6
Final Answer: What Percent to Pass HiSET?
You need ~40–50% of questions correct per subtest to score 8/20 and pass in the US. Total: 45/100 + 2/6 essay → high school equivalency earned.
Not hard — just half right gets you there.