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High School Equivalency Credential Program

Human Service Programs

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Finish what you started! Get your high school diploma. It’s never too late to build your confidence and skills.

At the Community Learning Center (CLC), the High School Equivalency Credential Program prepares students to take the HiSET or GED test. Students who pass the HiSET or GED test receive a High School Equivalency (HSE) Credential. Earning the HSE credential is the same as getting a high school diploma.

With a high school diploma or equivalent, people make an average of $10,000 more per year. You can also go to college.

At the CLC, we focus on helping adult learners reach their personal and professional goals. We want you to succeed, so we offer small class sizes, one-on-one tutoring, and resources for students with disabilities and learning differences.

In this program, students:

Take classes to prepare for HiSET or GED subject tests. The tests are in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
Develop computer skills and study skills.
Receive education and career advising in order to meet your goals.
Are part of a strong community of life-long learners.

Program Schedule

Classes meet 2 or 3 days a week from 6:15 – 9:15 p.m. at the CLC in Central Square.
Classes are from September to June.
Optional summer classes are available.

To enroll in this program, students must:

Meet the residency requirements. You can live in Arlington, Belmont, Brookline, Cambridge, Everett, Malden, or Watertown. Cambridge residents have priority. We welcome all people, regardless of immigration status.
Come to an information session and take a placement test.
Commit to regularly attend classes every week.
Speak and write English at an intermediate level. If you need to focus on your English, we have ESOL classes available both morning and evening.

Questions? Contact Ava Kiem at akiem@cambridgema.gov or call 617-545-3860.

Questions and Answers

What is the HiSET?

The HiSET, or High School Equivalency Test, is a standardized test for people who did not graduate high school or need a certificate showing they have high school level skills. The HiSET exam is made up of five subject tests:

Reading
Writing
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies

You must pass all 5 tests to earn your high school equivalency credential (HSE). You have an option to take the tests on the computer or on paper.

Learn more about the HiSET.

What is the GED?

The GED, or General Educational Diploma, is a standardized test for people who did not graduate high school or need a certificate showing you have high school level skills. The GED has four subject tests:

Language Arts (Reading and Writing Combined)
Mathematical Reasoning
Science
Social Studies

You must pass all 4 tests to earn your high school equivalency credential (HSE). You can take the tests on the computer.

Learn more about the GED.

What is better, the GED or the HiSET?

Both the GED and HiSET are valid High School Equivalency Credentials. They are accepted by every state, territory and jurisdiction. Both tests are accepted by the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. military, and federal programs.

How much does this program cost?

There is no cost for participants. All fees and materials required to participate are provided, including:

Books and class materials
Online test preparation resources
Access to a Chromebook

How much is the test?

You do not have to pay for the test. The Department of Secondary and Elementary Education will pay for it. We can help you with this process.

Am I eligible for this program?

Probably! To apply, you need to:

Be over the age of 18.
Speak, read, and write English at an intermediate level. You can study for the HiSET or GED in Spanish at one of the other 130 free programs that are part of the system of Public Adult Education of Massachusetts. It is not available in other languages.
Have a desire and willingness to learn.

Immigration status is not a factor for eligibility.

How long will it take to get my High School Equivalency Credential?

Every person’s situation is different. Come to an information session, and together we can make a plan that’s right for you. The next steps are within your reach!

What if I don’t pass the tests?

No problem! We’ll work with you every step of the way. We’ll be with you while you study and take the test again. We even have tutors that can provide 1:1 help, when needed.

How does earning my high school equivalency credential benefit me?

Having a high school diploma or equivalent helps you access better jobs and more education. When you earn your high school equivalency credential, you can:

Apply for a job that requires a high school diploma
Enroll in job training programs that require a high school diploma
Apply to college

I already have my high school diploma, but I want to improve my math and reading skills. Can I participate in this program?

Yes, some of our students enroll in the High School Equivalency Credential Program to prepare for college, qualify for job training programs, or better support their families. We offer several different levels of math and reading classes. We can help you develop your skills.