What is a High School Equivalency Credential?

In the United States, adults who leave high school before graduation have another way to secure a high school equivalency credential. Through testing, you can demonstrate you have the same skills and knowledge as a high school graduate.

The High School Equivalency (HSE) [1] is a high school diploma alternative aligning to current Indiana high school academics, preparing you for continuing education or employment. The assessment is based on five subject areas: math, reading, writing, science, and social studies. Workers with this credential earn an average of $10,000 per year more than those without, helping them create a whole new future.  

Testing Changes on September 30

Are you currently preparing for the TASC™ (Test Assessing High Secondary Completion)? Be aware that all five sections of the TASC™ must be completed by September 30, 2021, as it is being replaced by a new test, the HiSET® (High School Equivalency Test) soon. Students who have completed part of the TASC™ have until September 30 to pass all five subjects. 

Types of Tests

TASC™, HiSET®, and the GED® (General Educational Development) are all nationally recognized high school equivalency tests. Anyone who has currently completed the TASC™ or GED® in full has a valid high school equivalency. 

How can I prepare for the test? 

• Contact the MCCSC Adult Education team [2] for information on testing and classes.
• Check out our Preparing for the High School Equivalency staff picks list [3]. TASC™ books will be replaced with HiSET® books after September 30. 
• Visit the Learning Express Library [4] High School Equivalency Center for online skills checks, practice tests tutorials, and ebooks for study. Create a free account to get started.