High School Equivalency Preparation

    NH offers preparation for both nationally recognized high school equivalency tests, the HiSET and the GED. Students who pass either test will earn a high school equivalency certificate from the State of New Hampshire.

    NOTE: Scores from the HiSET and the GED CANNOT be combined. A test taker must choose to take one test or the other in order to earn a NH high school equivalency certificate.

    To learn more about the tests, how to take the tests, fees, transcripts, special accommodations and more, visit the NH Department of Education, Bureau of Adult Education’s High School Equivalency Testing page.

    All AEL Programs offer free classes for adults, over the age of 18 who are not enrolled in school, to prepare for either of the high school equivalency tests.

    Many Adult Diploma Programs offer classes to prepare for the high school equivalency tests. Check with your local program.

    HiSET Test (published by PSI Online)

    • NH has been offering the HiSET test since 2014.
    • The HiSET test includes five subtests that cover the content areas of reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
    • The test is available online or in-person at a test center (computer or paper-based depending on the test center).
    • The cost for the HiSET is $25 per subtest. There is an additional fee for online testing.
    • To find an available test date near you, please go to Current Available Dates.
    • See more information about the HiSET at the HiSET website.

    GED Test (published by GED Testing Service)

    • NH started offering the GED Test in 2023.
    • The GED test includes four subtests: Reasoning in Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science and Social Studies
    • The test is available online or in-person at a test center (computer based).
    • The cost for the GED is $36 per subtest.
    • To find an available test date near you, please go Find a Test Center
    • See more information about the GED at the GED website

    Adult Education Eligibility

    Category

    Recommended Referral

    Must be at least 16 years of age

    If you are under 16, please talk to your school counselor about your options.

    Cannot be enrolled in high school or required to be enrolled in school under the State’s compulsory attendance law

    If you are enrolled in school, you may be eligible for the Adult Diploma Program. Please talk to your school counselor.

    Home education students may be eligible for the Adult Diploma Program. Please reach out to your local program to discuss your options.

    Must be a NH Resident or work in NH

    If you live in another state, please contact your State’s adult education program.

    Cannot be in the US under the Student & Exchange Visitors Program

    Please reach out to your program sponsor for approved SEVP schools.