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State of Illinois High School Diploma (GED®/HISET®) FAQ


Find what you need in our searchable FAQ.

When and where are classes offered?

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ABEC classes High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

English: weekday mornings and evenings
Spanish: evenings and weekends

Classes are offered three times a year, beginning in August/September, January, and April. Classes are 8–16 weeks long.

You can take classes in person or online. Most in-person classes meet in Building K on ECC's Spartan Drive Campus in Elgin. Some classes may be offered at other locations in the district.

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What classes are offered to prepare students for the GED or HiSET exams? 2285 views

ABEC classes exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED language arts math science social studies

Classes are available in English and Spanish and cover reading, writing, and math. Higher-level classes also include science and social studies.

Before you start, you’ll take a short test in reading and math. This helps us place you in the right class so you can build the skills you need to pass the exam.

 
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Who can take the GED or HiSET?

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ABEC exam GED High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

You must be at least 17, no longer enrolled in high school, and have lived in Illinois for at least 30 days. You cannot be a high school graduate or have previously passed the GED, HiSET, or TASC. If you are 17, you must provide a letter of separation from high school.

Find more information here.
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Is there a graduation ceremony? 1934 views

ABEC classes exam graduation High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

Yes! ECC holds a State of Illinois High School Diploma graduation ceremony each May for students who completed one or more GED/HiSET preparation classes at ECC and submitted their official diploma transcript to Building K, Room K100.

Learn more about graduation

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After I earn my diploma, am I ready for college?

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ABEC classes college exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

If you plan to attend college, we recommend aiming for college-ready scores. For the GED, the recommended score is 165. For the HiSET, the recommended score is 15 on the math and reading tests. If you do not meet these scores, you may need pre-college courses, which may have tuition costs.

 

If you’re thinking about taking college classes, check out the GED and HiSET college-ready score requirements here.

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How do I enroll in GED/HiSET preparatory classes? 1833 views

ABEC classes exam GED High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED registration

Start the process by using our online form 

Visit the front desk in Building K. Bring a photo ID. If you are 16 or 17, bring your letter of separation. If you receive public assistance, bring your DHS medical card or LINK card.

Your first step is a free placement test, followed by a required orientation.

The front desk is open Monday–Friday. During the summer, the college is closed on Fridays.

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How do I get my diploma documents?

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ABEC Diploma exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED transcript

The  Regional Office of Education (ROE) in your county issues your State of Illinois High School Diploma documents. You must provide documentation that you completed the Illinois Constitution requirement. The ROE charges a fee for your transcript and certificate.

 

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Why choose GED/HiSET preparatory classes at ECC?

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ABEC classes exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

ECC's free preparation classes can help you prepare for the GED or HiSET, strengthen your basic skills, and prepare for college.

After completing one or more preparation classes and meeting the State of Illinois requirements, you may:

  • Participate in ECC's May graduation ceremony
  • Qualify for a tuition waiver for one three-credit ECC class if you live or work full-time in ECC's district
  • Be eligible for a scholarship
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Who can take GED/HiSET preparation classes?

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ABEC classes GED High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

You must be at least 16 years old and not enrolled in high school. If you are 16 or 17, you must provide a letter of separation from your high school.

You can view more information here.
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What are the GED and HiSET?

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ABEC exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

The GED (General Educational Development) and HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) are nationally recognized exams for adults who did not finish high school. When you pass the required exam and meet Illinois requirements, you can earn a State of Illinois High School Diploma.

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Where can I search for the appropriate Regional Office of Education for my county? 1614 views

ABEC exam High School Equivalency HSE/GED

State of Illinois High School Diploma candidates may find the appropriate Regional Office of Education to contact by searching the ROE locator.

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What subjects are on the GED/HiSET exams?

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ABEC classes Constitution exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED language arts math science social studies

Both exams cover language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Illinois also requires the U.S. Constitution test. If you did not pass the Constitution test in high school, you can complete the Constitution module offered through the State of Illinois.

 
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Can I take college classes while working toward my diploma Illinois High School diploma?

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ABEC classes college High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

Possibly. Some college classes have additional requirements. Contact the Transitions Coordinator at 847-214-6928 to learn more.

 

 

 

 

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How long are classes?

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ABEC classes High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

Classes are offered three times a year, beginning in August/September, January, and April. Classes are 8–16 weeks long.

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How do I know if I am ready for the GED or HiSET exams?

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ABEC classes exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

You can take the exams at any time, but passing is not guaranteed. Most people need some extra help to prepare. If you take classes at ECC, your teachers will help you know when you’re ready. Students in upper-level classes take free practice tests to help determine their readiness.

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How do I get more information about GED/HiSET preparatory classes at ECC? 1528 views

ABEC classes High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

We're Here to Help! You don't have to figure this out on your own.

GED/HiSET/AMOC questions: 847-214-6948
College/career transitions: 847-214-6928

Ready to get started? Visit the front desk in Building K at ECC's Spartan Drive Campus in Elgin. Your first step is a free placement test.

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How long does GED/HiSET preparation take?

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ABEC classes exam GED High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

There is no set amount of time. It depends on your basic skills, motivation, class attendance, and time spent studying. Your teachers can help you decide when you are ready. Students in Level 5 take a free practice test to help determine their readiness.

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How do I register for the GED or HiSET exams?

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ABEC classes exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

Information about registration, testing locations, pricing, and exam content is available at ged.com or hiset.org.

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Do I have to take GED/HiSET preparation classes?

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ABEC classes exam High School Equivalency HiSET HSE/GED

No. Classes are not required, but they are highly recommended. Most students benefit from extra preparation before taking the exams.

 
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After I earn my diploma, am I ready for college? 4 views

college GED HiSET

If you plan to attend college, we recommend aiming for college-ready scores. For the GED, the recommended score is 165. For the HiSET, the recommended score is 15 on the math and reading tests. If you do not meet these scores, you may need pre-college courses, which may have tuition costs.

 

If you’re thinking about taking college classes, check out the GED and HiSET college-ready score requirements here.

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Contact

Adult Basic Education Center

Building K, Room K100
847-214-6904
Fax: 847-931-3919