The highest score on the HiSET for each subject test is 20. The HiSET exam includes five subjects: Language Arts – Reading, Language Arts – Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Each is scored on a scale from 1 to 20, so the maximum possible per section is 20.
To earn your high school equivalency credential, you must meet three scoring requirements:
- Score at least 8 out of 20 on each subject
- Achieve a total combined score of 45 or higher across all five subjects
- Earn at least 2 out of 6 on the Language Arts – Writing essay
A highest score on the HiSET of 20 in any subject reflects performance equivalent to the top tier of high school graduates. While not required for passing, high scores can strengthen college applications or scholarship eligibility.
What a Perfect Score Means
Earning the highest score on the HiSET demonstrates strong mastery of critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing skills. It means you performed exceptionally well on multiple-choice questions and—on the Writing test—produced a clear, well-organized essay with solid evidence and minimal errors.
These scores are scaled, not raw percentages. So a 20 does not mean you answered every question correctly—it means your performance ranks at the highest level compared to national benchmarks.
Most students aim for the minimum passing score of 8 per subject. But if your goal is college readiness, aim for 15 or higher in each subject to show competitive academic strength.
ETS, the developer of the HiSET, uses norm-referenced scoring to ensure fairness across test forms and states.
Reaching the highest score on the HiSET requires focused study using official ETS practice tests and materials. It’s rare—but achievable with consistent preparation and attention to detail.
Your score reflects not just knowledge, but how well you apply it under test conditions.