Getting Your GED or HiSET
Earn your diploma equivalent — free or low cost in Philadelphia
Not finishing high school doesn't mean you're stuck. The GED and HiSET tests give you an equivalency diploma that opens the same doors — college, jobs, apprenticeships — as a traditional diploma. Philadelphia has several free or low-cost programs specifically to help you prepare and pass.
Practical next steps
Understand what the GED and HiSET are
Both are high school equivalency tests. Pennsylvania accepts both. The GED has four sections: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. The HiSET has five sections (similar content). Passing either earns you a Pennsylvania High School Equivalency Certificate, which is the legal equivalent of a high school diploma.
Know the cost — and how to get it waived
The GED costs $30 per subject test ($120 total). The HiSET costs $15 per section ($75 total). Pennsylvania offers fee waivers for income-qualifying adults. Ask your test prep program about waivers before paying anything.
Enroll in a free test prep program
The Community Learning Center (clcphiladelphia.org, 215-879-4884) provides free adult basic education and GED prep at multiple locations in Philadelphia. YouthBuild Philadelphia (for 18–24 year olds) combines GED prep with hands-on job training. The Free Library also offers adult literacy and basic education support.
For youth 16–24: special programs exist
YouthBuild Philadelphia (215-765-1901) and Philadelphia Job Corps (215-426-4100) serve young adults specifically — combining GED prep with job training, so you're building your education and career at the same time. These are especially valuable if you've been out of school for a while.
Know the eligibility requirements
To take the GED or HiSET in Pennsylvania: you must be at least 18, OR 16–17 and meet specific conditions (withdrawn from school for 6+ months and have parent permission, or have parental/guardian approval). Call your preferred test site to confirm eligibility.
Study strategically — not everything at once
Take a practice test first (free at ged.com or hiset.ets.org) to identify your weakest areas. Study those areas first. Khan Academy provides free prep for math and reading that directly aligns with GED content. Practice tests are your best tool.
Take each subject when you're ready
You don't have to take all four subjects on the same day. You can pass them one at a time over several months. Partial credit carries over — so if you pass math today, you only have to take the other three subjects later.
Use your diploma right away
Once you have your equivalency diploma, you can apply to Community College of Philadelphia (no SAT required), trade apprenticeship programs, most jobs that require a diploma, and federal financial aid. Don't wait — start on the next step immediately.
Resource starting points
- GED.com (Official GED Testing Service)
Practice tests, official test registration, and study resources.
- Khan Academy
Free math and reading prep that maps directly to GED content.
Organizations featured in this guide
- Community Learning Center (CLC)
Free adult basic education and GED prep at multiple Philadelphia locations. English, math, and HSE instruction.
- YouthBuild Philadelphia
Free GED prep + construction job training + stipend for young adults 18–24. One of the best options in the city.
- Philadelphia Job Corps
Free residential program combining GED prep with career training for youth 16–24.
- Community College of Philadelphia — Adult Education
Adult literacy and high school equivalency prep programs. Low-cost, open enrollment.
- Free Library of Philadelphia
Adult literacy programs, tutoring referrals, and study space at all branch locations.
Helpful things to know
Khan Academy covers GED math perfectly
Khan Academy's free math courses match the GED math test closely. Do 30 minutes a day for 6–8 weeks and your score will improve significantly.
YouthBuild is a program, not just a test
YouthBuild gives you GED prep + construction training + a stipend + job placement all in one. If you're 18–24, it's one of the best options in the city.
Schedule your test before you feel 100% ready
Having a test date on the calendar motivates studying in a way that open-ended prep doesn't. You can retake sections if needed.
Common questions
Is the GED as good as a real diploma?
Yes, legally and practically. Employers, colleges, the military, and apprenticeship programs treat a GED or HiSET equivalency the same as a high school diploma. The Pennsylvania Department of Education issues the same certificate for both.
What if I failed before?
You can retake GED subjects after a waiting period (21 days after your first two attempts; 60 days after a third). Each subject is independent — passing one stays passed. Don't give up; many people pass on their second or third attempt.
Can I get financial aid for college with a GED?
Yes, exactly the same as with a high school diploma. A GED makes you eligible for Pell Grants, PA State Grants, loans, and scholarships through FAFSA. See the FAFSA guide.