High School Equivalency (HSE) Testing Program

Eligibility Requirements

Age:

You must be 16 years of age or older to be eligible to take the High School Equivalency tests in Massachusetts.

However, if you are 16 or 17 years of age, you cannot schedule any exams until an official Letter of Withdrawal from your last school attended has been approved by the Massachusetts High School Equivalency Team. For more information, go to; Under-18 requirements.

School Enrollment Status:

You are not eligible to take the HSE tests in Massachusetts

  • If you are currently enrolled in any secondary school program; or
  • If you have previously earned a high school diploma; or
  • If you have ever received a high school equivalency credential.

Residency:

You must be a resident of Massachusetts, living at a Massachusetts address. Your test center may ask you to verify Massachusetts residency by filling out this form:

Identification:

You must present proper identification at the test center for each test session. Outdated or expired identification will not be accepted. Failure to provide documentation will prohibit you from taking the test.

Important: The name on your ID must match the name on your registration exactly. Use all capital letters in your name when registering.

The approved identification documents include:

  • A valid passport from any country
  • A valid driver's license from any state
  • A state-issued ID card (a temporary license, learners permit or school ID with signature is acceptable)
  • National ID card
  • Military ID card

Last Updated: December 30, 2022