The HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) consists of 5 subtests that measure high school-level knowledge in the US. Each test is taken separately, and you must pass all five to earn your credential. Here’s a complete breakdown of the 5 HiSET tests, including content, format, timing, and passing requirements based on US standards.
1. Language Arts – Reading
- Focus: Reading comprehension of literary and informational texts
- Question Types: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop
- Number of Questions: 40–50
- Time: 65 minutes
- Skills Tested: Main idea, inference, tone, evidence, vocabulary in context
2. Language Arts – Writing
- Focus: Grammar, sentence structure, and organized essay writing
- Question Types: 50 multiple-choice + 1 essay
- Time: 120 minutes (45 minutes recommended for essay)
- Skills Tested: Editing, clarity, argument development
- Essay: Write a 5-paragraph response to a prompt (scored 0–6)
3. Mathematics
- Focus: Real-world math — algebra, geometry, statistics
- Question Types: Multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, grid-in
- Number of Questions: 50–55
- Time: 90 minutes
- Calculator: Allowed (on-screen TI-30XS scientific calculator)
- Key Topics: Equations, percentages, area/volume, data interpretation
4. Science
- Focus: Life science, physical science, earth & space science
- Question Types: Multiple-choice, short answer, hot-spot
- Number of Questions: 50–60
- Time: 80 minutes
- Skills Tested: Scientific method, graphs, experiments, conclusions
5. Social Studies
- Focus: US history, civics, government, geography, economics
- Question Types: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, document-based
- Number of Questions: 50
- Time: 70 minutes
- Skills Tested: Primary sources, maps, timelines, civic principles
US HiSET Scoring & Passing Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Score per Subtest | 8 out of 20 |
| Essay Score | 2 out of 6 |
| Total Minimum | 45 out of 100 |
| College Ready | 15+ per subtest + 4+ on essay |
80% of US test-takers pass on first attempt (ETS data, 2023).
HiSET Testing Format (US)
- Computer-based (most common) or paper-based
- Take one subtest at a time — schedule over days or weeks
- Retake policy: Up to 3 times per year per subtest
- Cost: $10–$25 per subtest + $10–$15 admin fee (varies by state)
How to Prepare for the 5 HiSET Tests (US Resources)
- Free Practice Tests: hiset.org
- Study Guides: HiSET Academy, Kaplan, Barron’s
- Math Help: Khan Academy, GED Math (similar level)
- Essay Practice: Use official prompts — focus on thesis + evidence
Final Answer: What Are the 5 HiSET Tests?
The 5 HiSET tests in the US are:
- Language Arts – Reading (65 min)
- Language Arts – Writing (120 min + essay)
- Mathematics (90 min, calculator allowed)
- Science (80 min)
- Social Studies (70 min)
Pass all five with 8+/20 each + 2+/6 essay to earn your US-recognized high school equivalency.