June 2016 magazine

States Undergo Changes
to High School
Equivalency
State education communities that are preparing students to earn a high school equivalency certificate have
had to make some major adjustments over the last year and a half. With some states dropping the old test
for new ones, states choosing to have multiple options, and the implementation of College and Career
Ready (CCR) standards, the landscape has undergone an overhaul and drastically changed in a short
period of time.
Here’s what educators and those looking to achieve this educational milestone should know about recent
changes:
Twenty states administered alternative tests after choosing to either drop the GED test within their state or
offer multiple tests for students to choose from. The HiSET exam developed by Educational Test Service
and the TASC Test Assessing Secondary Completion by CTB/McGraw Hill allows those who haven’t
completed high school to earn their high school equivalencies.
Introducing numerous branded tests broke conventional terms and understanding of how people actually
go about earning a high school credential.
Employers, education administrations and institutions of higher learning erroneously ask an applicant
whether they have their “GED.” Having proof of a high school credential is essential for either employment
or for many careers and post-secondary education. However, GED is a test—not something earned.
HiSET, GED and TASC scores are mobile, meaning they can be used for employment and college
applications throughout the United States. Test takers now have a choice as to what test they choose to
take based on various categories such as price, or whether the test is available in paper or online formats.
All three tests measure high school equivalent skills, and each has implemented CCR standards. Whether
one takes the HiSET, GED or TASC test, the end result is that the individual will earn a state-issued
credential. For example, in California, a student can take either test and earn the California High School
Equivalency Certificate when passing each test’s subject areas.
The trend toward alternative testing shows no signs of slowing as more states consider new test options
and vendors in the near future. Options in how one earns a high school credential have changed, but the
outcomes are the same — increasing one’s ability to achieve a more secure future by reaching this
education milestone.
For more information, visit www.hiset.ets.org.
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