Residents of Massachusetts can earn their High School Equivalency (HSE) Credential by passing all subject tests on the GED exam, the HiSET exam, or a combination of both exams.   This credential is viewed as the equivalent of a high school diploma by virtually all colleges and employers.  If a candidate needs a credential to join the military, they should check with their recruiter to see if there are specific entrance requirements. 

HISET/GED COMPARISON CHART

- The tests are comparable in terms of difficulty and passing rate, but there are some important differences.     

No, in Massachusetts testers are not required to take classes before high school equivalency testing.      

For those who would like formal preparation, AAEC offers classes to Greater Lowell residents.  In addition to test preparation,  our classes include college and career readiness and technology instruction.  Graduates are eligible to participate in our annual graduation ceremony and may be eligible for scholarships to help them further their education or vocational training.

- Yes.  However, you will need the approval of the Department of Education before you can schedule a test appointment.  Follow the steps listed HERE.  

GED scores prior to 2014 have expired.  

HiSET and GED scores after 2014 are valid.

- Candidates must present a current, government issued, photo ID for each test session. 

- Acceptable IDs include: Passport, Driver's license from any state, State issued ID card, National ID and Military ID.

- We CAN NOT accept an expired ID, photocopies or a picture on a phone, or an ID that does not match the Candidate's account name or birth date. 

Upcoming test dates at our Test Center can be viewed here.

• Yes.  Special Accommodations are available for testers with documented disabilities or health related needs for both the GED and HiSET exams.  
• In addition, English Language Learners may apply for extended time (time and half) accommodations  on the HiSET exam.
• Candidates must apply directly to the test vendor to request special accommodations.  If approved, the test vendor will work with the testing center and candidate to schedule all testing appointments.

FORMATS:  HiSET tests are available on the computer and on paper.  Testers have the option to choose which format they would like for each subject test. 

Please note that GED is only available on the computer, unless a candidate has been specifically approved for paper-based testing by the Special Accommodations Department at Pearson.     

LANGUAGES: The GED and HiSET are available in Spanish and in English. 

You can retake a subject test. 

Please note that each vendor has a different retake policy.  

HiSET subject tests can be taken for a total of 3 times per calendar year (January - December).

GED subject tests can be scheduled up to three times.  After the third attempt, a candidate must wait 60 days before scheduling again.  

The voucher codes provided by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are valid for three attempts per subject.  After the third attempt, the candidate is responsible for payment.  

- Remember, you must bring a current, government issued ID to be able to test! 

- We can not accept expired IDs, IDs that don't match your name and/or birth date, photocopies or pictures on your phone. 

- It is helpful to bring your Test Appointment Confirmation, in case there is a problem with your appointment.

- Our Test Center will supply all necessary testing items, including a handheld calculator.

- All phones, electronic devices and wrist watches will be collected during the testing and returned when you have finished testing for the day.  

- There is limited storage space available at our Test Center.  We recommend that you bring as few personal items as possible.  

- Hats and hoods may not be worn during testing, except for religious reasons.

- Candidates must demonstrate that they have nothing in their pockets and allow their eye glasses to be inspected.

- Parking information can be found HERE.