GED vs. HiSET: Which One is Overrated?

By Kenya Bratton, Specializing in Adult School Professional Development

Decoding the Data: Numbers Behind GED and HiSET

As someone who works in adult schools, I get this question all the time. Given that both options are available in my work environment, I remain neutral. The bottom line is whichever test allows an adult learner to feel accomplished and transition to better employability or further education truly reigns supreme. However, this lingering question continues to spark debate.?

With approximately 850,000 people taking the GED and around 125,000 choosing the HiSET in 2023 alone, it’s clear that both tests serve a significant number of individuals. This article will break down the essential differences and benefits of each test from an insider. Thus, the information can assist in guiding adult learners to make a decision that aligns with the learners personal and professional goals.

Similarities Between GED and HiSET: What You Need to Know

Despite their differences, the GED and HiSET share several key similarities that make them both valuable options for individuals seeking to earn a high school equivalency credential.?

Both tests are designed to assess the knowledge and skills equivalent to those of a high school graduate, covering essential subjects such as language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. They are widely recognized by employers, colleges, military enlistment, and universities across the United States, providing test-takers with the opportunity to pursue further education or enhance their career prospects.?

Additionally, both exams offer flexible testing options, allowing individuals to prepare at their own pace and choose a testing format that suits their needs. Ultimately, both the GED and HiSET are important landmarks for adult learners completing their educational and professional aspirations.

Especially valuable is that test subjects can be taken one at time instead of all at once. Allowing the adult learner to focus on one content area at a time.

What Academic Skills Are Needed?

To prepare effectively for the GED or HiSET tests, several key academic skills are essential:

1. Critical Reasoning: The ability to analyze and evaluate arguments and information is crucial. This includes interpreting texts, understanding complex ideas, and making informed judgments based on evidence.
2. Mathematical Problem Solving: Proficiency in mathematical concepts and techniques is needed to solve a variety of problems. This includes algebra, geometry, data analysis, and arithmetic operations.
3. Reading Comprehension: Strong reading skills are necessary to understand and analyze passages in both the Language Arts and Social Studies sections. This involves identifying main ideas, understanding context, and making inferences.
4. Writing Skills: Being able to articulate ideas clearly and effectively is important, especially for writing essays and responses in the Language Arts sections. This includes grammar, punctuation, and organizing thoughts coherently.
5. Scientific Analysis: For the Science sections, candidates need to understand and apply scientific principles, analyze data, and interpret experimental results.
6. Historical and Social Analysis: Knowledge of historical events, social structures, and geographical concepts is required to answer questions in the Social Studies sections, involving critical thinking and contextual understanding.

Developing these skills through targeted study and practice is key to achieving success on both the GED and HiSET exams.??

GED vs. HiSET: Are the test contents the same?

GED: A Broad Overview

• Reasoning Through Language Arts: Combines reading comprehension and writing skills.
• Mathematical Reasoning: Focuses on problem-solving and mathematical concepts.
• Science: Assesses understanding of scientific principles.
• Social Studies: Tests knowledge of history, government, and geography.

HiSET: Detailed Breakdown

• Language Arts – Reading: Evaluates reading comprehension skills.
• Language Arts – Writing: Includes an essay and multiple-choice questions.
• Mathematics: Covers mathematical problem-solving and concepts.
• Science: Tests scientific knowledge and reasoning.
• Social Studies: Assesses understanding of historical and social concepts.

Test Format Showdown: Digital or Paper?

GED and HiSET Are Neck and Neck And Allow Flexibility.??

• Computer-Based: Primarily offered in a digital format at an approved test center.
• Paper-Based: Available for adult learners with a diagnosed disability and submission of test request with approval.
• At-home live:? Requires request submission for approval.?
• Languages:? Both are definitely in English and Spanish.? HiSET has options for French. Contact the individual testing center to explore possible more options.?
• Cost:? Generally if the adult learner is enrolled in adult school, vouchers may be provided to take the GED or HiSET at no cost.? If not enrolled, the fees vary. The HiSET is a more budget friendly option if paying out of pocket.? The test costs vary by state. Check with your local test center or call GED or HiSET for accurate information.

Which Test is Faster? Time is Money

Every educator will likely say it depends. Though most times I stay neutral I would say that if an adult learner attended high school and has plentiful credits then the learner should request a transcript evaluation.? Many adult learners find they are closer in completing their diploma rather than starting a different route. Also noted, the academic skills level could possibly be adequate to study in a short time period and pass the GED.

Competency is more required than speed. If the adult learner prepares well, learns the academic subject area and are confident, they can take different subjects as one feels ready. Emphasizing this high value advantage with both tests.??

Failed the Test? Here’s What You Need to Know About GED and HiSET Retesting

There are fees associated with retakes (GED) or retests (HiSET) and are typically reduced.??

GED:

The price of the GED? test and any test retakes varies from state to state. GED Testing Service will waive its fees for retests of failed subject tests, and both states and test centers have the option to do the same if they choose. After receiving two retakes at the reduced price, the price of the test subject returns to the regular price. If the adult learner does not pass that subject again, they will receive two more retakes at the reduced rate. (GED website)

HiSET:?

Two retests within a 12-month period of the original subtest purchase date.? (HiSET website)

"Juken Learning Services is available to provide professional development to your team to ensure 100% accommodations submission."

FAQs: Making Sense of Your Options

1. Can the learner use either the GED or HiSET for college applications??

Yes, both the GED and HiSET are widely accepted by colleges and employers across the United States. Generally speaking when applying to a university the admissions review transcripts of academic courses.? The GED does not provide an equivalency of the test subject to academic courses.? HiSET candidates have some high school classes with a transcript that may be considered for university acceptance.?

Fortunately, community colleges typically require only motivation and the desire for achievement for college entry.?

2. How can one find out which test is available in their state??

Visit the official websites of GED and HiSET. As an adult school educator, I would first say reach out to your local adult school if nearby. Or you can contact local testing centers to verify availability in your state.

3. What should I do as an educator to help a learner submit accommodations?

Juken Learning Services can provide Professional Development to train your staff in completing accommodations that receive 100% approval.

Or if you are an individual seeking accommodations, we can support you. ? Completing accommodations from STEP 1 to submission is a virtual appointment for 2 hours.??

Or you can contact HiSET or GED directly for assistance.

Neither Are Overrated: Both Are Underestimated

In conclusion, while the debate over whether the GED or HiSET is overrated may spark passionate opinions, the reality is that neither test deserves such a label. Both the GED and HiSET serve as valuable pathways for individuals seeking to obtain their high school equivalency diploma, each offering unique benefits tailored to different learning styles and preferences.

The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal circumstances, such as testing format, content focus, and individual comfort levels. Rather than viewing one as superior or overrated, it’s essential to recognize that both the GED and HiSET provide crucial opportunities for education completion. By understanding the strengths of each option, test-takers can make informed decisions that align with their personal aspirations and educational journeys.

Essentially, both tests promote educational equity and both have faced barriers to the misconceptions of traditional education. It is an honor that these tests are still available as an alternative option for adult learners.

We look forward to a discovery conversation.

Contact us at [email protected] and ask for Kenya.

Our experts offer comprehensive preparation services to equip staff and students with current practices and results.

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