When you pass the HiSET, you earn your high school equivalency credential—a nationally recognized certificate that holds the same value as a traditional high school diploma. This milestone opens doors to college, career training, better jobs, and military service. Once you pass all five subjects, your state’s education department issues your official diploma or certificate.
To pass the HiSET, you must meet three requirements:
- Score at least 8 out of 20 on each of the five subjects
- Earn a total combined score of 45 or higher across all subjects
- Score at least 2 out of 6 on the Language Arts – Writing essay
After passing, you’ll receive an email or notification from your HiSET account at hiset.ets.org. Your scores will be marked as “Passed,” and you can download or order your official transcript and diploma through the portal.
Next Steps After Passing
Once you pass the HiSET, take these actions:
- Request official transcripts to send to colleges or employers.
- Apply to community colleges, trade schools, or apprenticeships.
- Update your resume with “High School Equivalency” under education.
- Explore financial aid—your credential makes you eligible for FAFSA and scholarships.
Many states also offer free career counseling or college transition programs for new HiSET graduates. Check your state’s Department of Education website for resources.
You don’t need to retake any subject. Your passing scores are permanent and valid nationwide.
Celebrate and Move Forward
Passing the HiSET is a major achievement. It proves you have the knowledge and discipline expected of a high school graduate. Whether you left school early, faced life challenges, or returned to learning after years away—this moment matters.
You didn’t just pass a test. You changed your future.
When you pass the HiSET, you gain more than a document. You gain options.
Now, decide what comes next—and go after it. Your journey doesn’t end here. It begins.