HSE Preparation Options

You are not required to have done any special preparation in order to register for and take one of the two HSE assessments in Massachusetts, the GED^® test or the HiSET^®. However, you may feel that enrolling in preparation classes would be helpful in passing the tests. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's division of Adult and Community Learning Services funds many preparation programs throughout the Commonwealth for just this purpose. These programs have many advantages:

• Knowledgeable, caring teachers
• A curriculum specifically aligned to passing the test
• Advisors to prepare you for next steps after earning your Credential, such as college admissions, enrollment in a training program, or obtaining well-paying employment
• Help with issues such as child care and transportation

For a complete list of the programs near you, go to the Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline website or call 1-800-447-8844.

You may prefer to prepare for the tests on your own. If so, each of the test vendors has many resources available, including practice tests to give you a realistic idea of your readiness to pass.

For GED^® preparation materials, including practice tests, go to the GED^® website.

For HiSET^® preparation materials, including practice tests, go to the HiSET^® website.

Good luck in your quest!

Reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Our office is not responsible for and does not in any way guarantee the accuracy of information in other sites accessible through links herein. DESE may supplement this list with other services and products that meet the specified criteria. For more information contact: HSET@mass.gov or 781-338-6625.

Last Updated: January 31, 2023