FAQ About HSED (High School Equivalency Diploma) at SWCC

HSED classes provide an opportunity for adults to continue their education. In fact, according to the College Board, 95 percent of U.S. colleges and universities accept HSED graduates who meet their other qualifications for admission, An HSED credential documents that you have high school-level academic skills. About 96 percent of U.S. employers accept the credential as equal to a traditional high school diploma, according to recent studies.

It is nationally recognized by employers, unions, and institutions of higher learning as the equivalent of a high school diploma.

The HSED is earned by passing a battery of five HiSET subject tests including Reading, Writing (includes an essay), Social Studies, Science, and Math. You can use your calculator or the embedded calculator on the entire Math test.  Upon successful completion of the HiSET test battery, the diploma is awarded by the Iowa Department of Education.

In Iowa, the Department of Education awards the diploma.

• $53.75** for the full battery of tests (all five content areas) which includes two free re-tests per sub-section during a 12 month period from the initial date of purchase.
• $10.75** for a single subtest (1 content area) - no retakes.
• There is no charge for the first diploma after the HiSET battery is taken with a passing score.
• Duplicate diplomas and documentation $15.00 (paid to DiplomaSender.com)

**Does not include voucher fees

The Iowa Department of Education recommends you complete math and writing in the middle of the testing process.  Research supports this recommendation to not leave math and writing as the last tests.

Yes.  For each test question you are asked to select the correct answer from four or five choices. (Exceptions: Part II of the Language Arts-Writing Test is an essay) A calculator may be used on the entire Math test.  An on-screen calculator is embedded in the computer-based version of the HiSET.

To pass the HSED test, students must have a test score of 8 or above in each content area.  They must average 45 points overall to pass.  Students must take and pass all five tests, even if they score very highly on a specific test.

If one or more sections of the HSED test are not passed, or a person fails to attain an average of 45, those subject tests need to be retaken after additional study.  The HiSET™ test allows 2 retests per subject.

You must apply to the State of Iowa for the Iowa High School Equivalency Diploma.

The HSED testing service provides accommodations for students with learning disabilities that interfere with their ability to be successful when taking the tests under standard testing conditions.  Documentation of a learning disability is required. 

The classes are an opportunity for you to brush up on your math, reading, and English skills and, as a result, be better prepared to take the HiSET tests.

Yes, Iowa Department of Education eligibility for HSED testing requires all students to enroll in a HSED class. All students will begin with an orientation at a class site.  Every HSED student is required to take a pre-assessment in reading and math to determine the proper level at which to begin study.

Preparation is an essential part of any important examination. SWCC HSED class instructors can help you determine whether you need intensive preparation or a quick “brush up. SWCC offers traditional classes and online curriculum for a blended approach to HSED to provide flexible options and accelerated learning.

Most classes are conducted year around, but some classes take short summer and/or winter breaks between class sessions.  Online curriculum is available throughout the year.

No, even online seats are free to SWCC HSED students.

Official Practice Tests (OPT) determine if you are ready to take an official HSED test for each subject. This test is timed and must be taken before officially testing in any of the five HSED subject areas.  Students must meet the minimum score on the OPT for each subject prior to taking an actual HiSET subject test.  This score expires after four weeks.  Students must obtain a signed verification form from their instructor before they can take the HiSET test.

The HiSET exam is available in a computer-delivered format in Iowa. If you have special needs that require testing in another format, please see the Chief Examiner. 

• Students may only take final HSED tests after they have attended a class and successfully completed official practice tests.
•  HSED tests are administered at one of the three SWCC campus sites-Assessment Center in Creston, Red Oak and Osceola SWCC Centers.
• HSED tests can only be taken on dates listed on the HSED testing schedules.
• Students must schedule an appointment online at least 24 hours in advance.

Yes. The exam is available in both English and Spanish in Iowa.You can switch languages or retake your remaining subject tests in a different language from when you started.

Yes.  Each year, new graduates are honored in an HSED Graduation ceremony at SWCC.  This ceremony honors those who have successfully met the requirements to earn the HSED.  You are encouraged to invite your family and friends.

More information can be found on the HiSET® website, http://hiset.ets.org/test_takers/

Contact the SWCC AEL Coordinator or the site closest to you to sign up for an orientation. You can learn more about class offerings by phone or email. 

Darla Helm, SWCC AEL Coordinator
Phone: 641-782-1497
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.