🎓 Missed High School? You can still get your diploma!

When a student finishes high school (12th grade), they will graduate and receive a diploma. For students who don’t finish high school, there is another option called an HSE (a High School Equivalency Diploma). 

• Remember that a high school diploma (or an HSE) is a requirement for many jobs and education after high school! 

A common option for getting an HSE is to pass a high school equivalency test. The two most common high school equivalency tests are the GED and the HiSET.  

It’s important to note that requirements and resources for getting an HSE vary by state. Some states require you to take the GED, some states require you to take the HiSET, and other states have completely different options. Many states offer programs to help prepare for the test, and many states will also help pay for you to take the test, as long as you fit certain requirements.  

• Check out this website to find the specific rules about getting an HSE in your state, and to see what state resources are available to you.  

Important FAQ’s about taking the GED or HiSET: 

❌🏫 You must not be currently enrolled in high school (remember that all children in the U.S. must go to school until 16-17, depending on the state. It’s the law!)

• To learn more about your rights as a student in the U.S., check out our article, ‘U.S. Public School: What do I need to know and how do I enroll?’ 

🎂 You must meet a minimum age. The minimum age varies by state, but it’s usually 16. 

💵 The test may cost money. Some states offer the test for free, and the cost in other states can vary from $30 - $150. There may be programs available in your community that can help pay for the test.  

✍️ The test will cover four or five subjects: math, language arts, science, and social studies. You can take all of the subjects on the same day or on different days.  

🗣️ You can take the test in English or in Spanish. 

👩‍💻 Depending on your state, you may be able to take the test online or you may have to go take the test at a testing center.  

• Note: if you would like to take the test online but you don’t have a computer, check with your local library to see if they have a computer that you can use! 

🪪 You do not need to have legal status to take one of these tests. However, you will need to show a form of identification. In some states you may have to show proof of residency.  

🥳 There are resources available to help you prepare and practice for these tests. USAHello offers free online GED prep classes: check it out and register here! 

If you need help registering for an HSE test, understanding the HSE options and requirements in your state, or finding resources to help you prepare, contact us! 

This page provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Please be sure to speak to an attorney about your specific case.  

Last Updated: February 4, 2025

ImportaMí is a project dedicated to providing reliable, accessible, and relevant information to unaccompanied children and their sponsors in the United States. ImportaMí is part of Signpost, an initiative of the International Rescue Committee in collaboration with other agencies that creates digital help centers to empower people impacted by conflict, disasters, poverty, and violence.

SOURCES: 

Documented. (October 2023). Cómo obtener un Diploma de Equivalencia de Escuela Secundaria en Nueva York. https://documentedny.com/2023/10/27/diploma-equivalencia-escuela-secundaria-ged-inmigrantes-nyc/