Another path to reach a high school diploma
Minnesota has added an additional path to secondary ( high school ) credentials . Similar to the General Educational Development ( GED ) test , students can now use the HiSET exams as an assessment-based path to credentials . For years , Minnesota has had multiple paths for a person to complete their high school credential including programs such as Credit Recovery Diplomas and the Minnesota Adult Diploma that attempt to recapture the work and evidence of “ skills mastery ” through a learner portfolio . For students who are just a couple of credits from graduation , or conversely , have big gaps in their skills , the diploma process may be the best option . For students who lack credits but have the general skills to pass the exams , testing out through the GED or HiSET exams may be the best route . Minnesota currently has several test centers open for the HiSET with more coming . Metro North ABE intends to open its current testing centers to HiSET test clients this summer .
For this article , we will look exclusively at the exam pathway and compare / contrast the new HiSET option and the GED exam .
One significant difference lies in the content covered by each test . The GED consists of four subjects : Reasoning Through Language Arts , Mathematical Reasoning , Science , and Social Studies . On the other hand , the HiSET comprises five subjects : Language Arts – Reading , Language Arts –
Both the GED and HiSET are widely recognized by employers and educational institutions as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma .
Writing , Mathematics , Science , and Social Studies . While the GED combines language arts into one section , the HiSET separates reading and writing into distinct components .
The format of the two tests also varies . Both GED and HiSET offer computer-based and paper-based testing options . However , the GED is primarily delivered in a computer-based format , whereas the HiSET offers more flexibility , allowing test-takers to choose between computerbased and paper-based tests for each subject . This flexibility caters to the diverse preferences and needs of individuals .
Scoring systems differ between the GED and HiSET . The GED uses a scoring range of 100 to 200 points for each subject , with a passing score of 145 for each subject and an overall passing score of 580 . In contrast , the HiSET employs a scale of 1 to 20 for each subject , with a passing score of 8 for each component and an overall passing score of 45 . The scoring variations reflect differences in the assessment models and how proficiency is measured .
Both the GED and HiSET are widely recognized by employers and educational institutions as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma . However , recognition may vary , and individuals need to verify the acceptance of either credential for their specific needs .
Save the date
Please join us in celebrating the hard work and success of Metro North ABE students who have obtained their high school equivalency or professional credentials . A formal cap and gown ceremony will be held at the Anoka- Hennepin Education Sevces Center located at 2727 N . Ferry St . in Anoka , Minnesota .
Wed ., May 8 , 2024 at 7 p . m .