High School Equivalency (HSE) Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs from the Test Publishers:
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FAQs from the Missouri HSE Office:
HSE Records:
Does the Missouri HSE Office have a copy of my certificate/transcript?
No, we do not keep any tester documents. If you are looking for a copy of your High School Equivalency certificate/transcript, go to DiplomaSender.com and create an account. You can also contact DiplomaSender directly by starting a chat at DiplomaSender.com or calling 1-855-313-5799.
Can I combine GED® and HiSET® subtest scores?
Yes, effective August 1, 2023, Missouri HSE candidates are able to combine current-series GED® and HiSET® subtest scores through DiplomaSender’s TotalTranscript™ feature to achieve an HSE credential. Candidates may take subtests for either exam in any order. Passing scores will remain the same, 145 minimum per subtest for GED® and a minimum score of 8 and an average of 9 for HiSET® (minimum 2 for the essay on HiSET® Language Arts Writing). Candidates wishing to utilize the TotalTranscript™ feature will be responsible for paying all fees for both exams.
How long are my GED® and HiSET® subtest scores valid?
GED® and HiSET® subtest scores remain valid and do not expire in Missouri until there is a replacement or major re-write of the exam. GED® subtest scores prior to January 1, 2014 are no longer valid for use in obtaining a future HSE credential.
I earned my certificate years/decades ago. Will DiplomaSender have my records?
Yes, DiplomaSender maintains all of Missouri's HSE records, including historical records.
I am a third party looking to verify someone's education. Will the HSE Office do education verifications?
No--Please contact DiplomaSender at 1-855-313-5799 or thirdpartysupport@diplomasender.com for education verification requests. Do not send student personally identifiable information (PII) to that email address.
Preparing and Testing:
How do I schedule my exams?
Testing centers cannot schedule your exams for you. You must login to your MyGED account or myHiSET account to schedule your exams at your preferred testing center.
What is the difference between GED® and HiSET®?
Both programs are state-approved for HSE and earn you the same certificate from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. We don’t endorse one over the other. You can read about some of the differences between the two in our current Comparison Chart.
Are the HSE exams available in any other languages?
Both the GED® and HiSET® exams are available in Spanish.
Can I take an HSE exam at home?
Yes, since the COVID-19 pandemic, both exams began allowing students to test at home with online proctor monitoring. See the Online GED Test or the HiSET Exam at Home for more details.
Can I take the at-home GED® and HiSET® test if I'm not 18 yet?
Since you are a minor being monitored by an (adult) online proctor, you must create your MyGED account or myHiSET account and request approval from the state via the HSE Test Age Waiver Application.
Does the State of Missouri offer GED® or HiSET® preparation classes?
Yes, FREE test preparation classes are offered to eligible Missouri citizens at Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Programs throughout the state. Visit AEL.mo.gov for information on a program near you.
What are some ways I can prepare for the exam?
- In your student account: Both GED® and HiSET® offer free and for-purchase study materials once you’ve created a student account
- Public libraries: in addition to preparation courses, many libraries have HSE study or practice books
- Bookstores (brick-and-mortar and virtual stores): New and used practice books are available through multiple book vendors.
Missouri Policy:
Do I have to be a resident of Missouri to take an HSE exam?
Yes, Missouri does have a residency requirement for HSE exams. When you sign up for a myGED account or a myHiSET account, you must enter your Missouri mailing address. This address will be used to issue your Missouri HSE certificate after passing your exams.
I am less than 17 years of age. Can I take an HSE exam?
While the age requirement is 17 years of age, you can request to be approved to take the test at less than 17 years of age via the HSE Test Age Waiver Application.
I am less than 18 years of age. Can I take an HSE exam at home/secure location?
Due to being a minor, being monitored by an (adult) online proctor, if you are less than 18 years of age, you must request to be approved to take the exam at home or a secure location via the HSE Test Age Wavier Application. Note: An age waiver is not required for HiSET® test takers 17 years of age taking the test at a traditional testing center or for GED® test takers 17 years of age. GED® test takers less than 18 years of age must have a parent/legal guardian available at the beginning of the online proctored exam to provide permission for the test taker to be monitored by an (adult) online proctor.