States Undergo Changes to High School Equivalency
State education communities that are preparing students to earn a high school equivalency certificate have had to make some major adjustments over the last year and a half. With some states dropping the old test for new ones, states choosing to have multiple options, and the implementation of College and Career Ready (CCR) standards, the landscape has undergone an overhaul and drastically changed in a short period of time.
Here’s what educators and those looking to achieve this educational milestone should know about recent changes:
1: 2014 marked the first year in U.S. history that alternative tests were used by states.
Twenty states administered alternative tests after choosing to either drop the GED test within their state or offer multiple tests for students to choose from. The HiSET exam developed by Educational Test Service and the TASC Test Assessing Secondary Completion by CTB/McGraw Hill allows those who haven’t completed high school to earn their high school equivalencies.
Introducing numerous branded tests broke conventional terms and understanding of how people actually go about earning a high school credential.
2: People are learning you don’t “get a GED.”
Employers, education administrations and institutions of higher learning erroneously ask an applicant whether they have their “GED.” Having proof of a high school credential is essential for either employment or for many careers and post-secondary education. However, GED is a test—not something earned.
HiSET, GED and TASC scores are mobile, meaning they can be used for employment and college applications throughout the United States. Test takers now have a choice as to what test they choose to take based on various categories such as price, or whether the test is available in paper or online formats.
3. The results are the same.
All three tests measure high school equivalent skills, and each has implemented CCR standards. Whether one takes the HiSET, GED or TASC test, the end result is that the individual will earn a state-issued credential. For example, in California, a student can take either test and earn the California High School Equivalency Certificate when passing each test’s subject areas.
The trend toward alternative testing shows no signs of slowing as more states consider new test options and vendors in the near future. Options in how one earns a high school credential have changed, but the outcomes are the same — increasing one’s ability to achieve a more secure future by reaching this education milestone.
For more information, visit www.hiset.ets.org.
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