New test takes effect Jan. 2

Individuals interested in obtaining their Missouri high school equivalency certificate are reminded about a number of upcoming modifications to the process.

The new features coincide with the implementation of the new high school equivalency test called HiSET®, developed by Educational Testing Service. The HiSET® will replace the GED® test beginning Jan. 2, 2014.

“It is crucial that test takers are aware of the differences,” said Tom Robbins, director of adult education and high school equivalency testing at the Department.

Those who have taken the current (GED®) tests, but have not scored high enough to receive their certificate, have until the end of the year to pass the test(s) needed to get their certificate. If they do not test by Dec. 31 and get scores good enough to pass, they will be able to start over with the new assessment (HiSET®) in 2014.

Registration for computer-based GED® tests is still open, but availability is limited. Those interested in completing the computer-based GED® test before Dec. 31 are encouraged to sign up quickly. A list of GED® testing centers can be found here.

The deadline to register for the paper-based GED® test in 2013 has already passed, however those who registered prior to the deadline can still take the exam before the end of the year. Jefferson City currently has available seats on Dec. 17.

Beginning January 2014, Missouri will be using the HiSet® test to determine high school equivalency. Registration is now underway at www.hiset.ets.org. The new test features a change in cost structure and comes with two purchase options:

The battery costs $95 and includes all five test sections.

Test takers can purchase individual sections for the cost of $22 for each test plus an annual state administration fee of $10.

“People taking the new test (HiSET®) in 2014 are starting from the beginning and will take all five sections at least once,” said Robbins. “Buying it as a battery will result in significant cost savings for test takers.”

The new test will continue to determine high school equivalency with sections in reading, writing, math, science and social studies, but it can also be used to measure college- and- career readiness. “It is important that the high school equivalency certificate represent the content equivalent of what high school graduates are learning,” said Robbins.

College- and career- readiness is a primary goal for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Top 10 by 20 initiative, which calls for education in the state to rank in the top 10 nationwide by 2020.

For more information about GED® or HiSET®, please visit https://dese.mo.gov/college-career-readiness/high-school-equivalency or call 573-751-3504.