HSE Preparation
Preparing for the High School Equivalency Test
Ohio Aspire programs provide free services to individuals preparing for the high school equivalency (HSE) certificate. By enrolling in an Aspire program, you can develop study skills and test-taking skills. You can take practice tests to prepare for the exam. Ohio Aspire can also prepare you for entrance exams for career training programs and community college or university degree programs.
Look at the Aspire locations map to find an Aspire program near you! Get started to a better future!
HSE Test Options
The Ohio Department of Education has approved GED and HiSET to be the testing assessment companies for the High School Equivalency test for the State of Ohio. This has opened up the testing options to include both computer-based testing and paper-pencil testing throughout the state. While the test structures and scoring systems vary (see link below), passing either of the test options will earn the test-taker the Ohio Certificate of High School Equivalence. Both test options cover science, social studies, mathematics, and language arts (reading and language) while giving students who left high school before graduating an opportunity to earn a High School Equivalence Diploma that can be used to pursue career training and a college degree.
Testing in Ohio
In Ohio, GED and HiSET administer the HSE test. A comparison of the two programs is available. First-time test takers may be elible for an $80 voucher to reduce the cost of the test.
Below is the test cost:
- GED (Computer-based or Online Proctored tests) - $144 ($64 with voucher)
- HiSET (Online Proctored test) - $141.25 ($61.25 with voucher)
- HiSET (Computer-based test) - $93.75 ($13.75 with voucher)
- HiSET (Paper-based test) - $115 ($35 with voucher)
Applying for HSE Testing
Once a student has determined which of the options they would like to pursue, they will then go to GED's or HiSET's website to begin the application process. Information about Applying for the GED® Test and Applying for the HiSET Test is available on the Department's website. There is also a page of frequently asked questions. Although HSE Testing is intended for adults 19 or older, there are exceptions for 16-18 year olds. Age Requirements can be found here along with the needed form for testers under 18 years of age.
You can also reach the Ohio High School Equivalence Office by email at HSE.VoucherEmail@education.ohio.gov, by regular mail at 25 S. Front Street, MS622 Columbus, OH 43215, and by phone at 614-728-0795
Where do I take my HSE Test?
You will schedule your test through the vendor's online portal which will provide a list of testing locations nearest you. A list of HSE testing centers is also available on the Department's website.
Last Modified: 6/8/2026 11:21:34 AM