How to Get a GED® or HiSET® in Illinois

Study for the Illinois GED or HiSET online without having to attend class!

Illinois GED and HiSET Requirements


  • Resident: You must have lived in Illinois for 30 days.
  • Enrolled: You must not have graduated from high school and cannot be currently enrolled in a regular high school.

GED Test Eligibility

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old. If you are under 18 years of age, you must meet additional requirements for the GED and HiSET.
  • Cost: GED: $30 (per subject), $120 (total); HiSET: $24 (per subject), $120 (total)
  • Score: 145 (minimum)
  • Accommodations: You must apply for disability accommodations through the GED Testing Service page.

HiSET Test Eligibility

  • Age: You must be at least 17 years old. If you are under 18 you may need to meet additional requirements.
  • Cost: $18 (per subtest); $90 (total)
  • Score: 8 (minimum) on each subtest, a combined score of 45, and at least a 2 on the Language Arts - Writing essay.
  • Accommodations: Find out about disability accommodations and fill out your HiSET Accommodations Request Form on the HiSET website.
  • You also must pass the U.S. and Illinois Constitution Test in order to receive your certificate.
  • Diploma: After you pass the exam and the Constitution Test, the Illinois Community College Board will award you with a high school equivalency certificate showing you have achieved the same level of knowledge as a high school graduate.

Online GED or HiSET Classes

Online programs like GED Academy are available to help you get your GED fast and easy.

Over 20 Million Adults

That’s how many have successfully passed their high school equivalency test. So why wait?

"I never had the opportunity to go to school. When I was a kid, my childhood was working at the fields with my dad. My three sons have good jobs and earn a lot money. I thought that if they could get their high school diploma, I could too."

– Pedro, Illinois