Question 1
What are the solutions of x² + 3x = 28?
Is the HiSET hard?
The HiSET is set at the level of a high school graduate. PSI estimates that if graduating high school seniors took it, about 60% would pass on the first attempt, so a passing score puts you in about the top 40% of graduating seniors.
| Benchmark | About 60% of graduating seniors would pass on the first attempt (PSI estimate) |
|---|---|
| To pass | 8 of 20 on each subtest, 2 of 6 on the essay, 45 of 100 in total |
| Retakes | The test fee covers two retakes within 12 months of buying the subtest; a test center or proctor fee may still apply |
| Hardest areas for many | Algebra (45% of Math) and the Writing essay |
What makes it hard
- Algebra and functions are 45% of the Math subtest: equations, quadratics, systems and graphs.
- Science and Social Studies reward reading tables, graphs and documents more than memorized facts.
- Writing combines 60 editing questions with an essay in one 120-minute session.
- Reading texts run 400 to 600 words, so pace matters: 65 minutes for 50 questions.
What makes it manageable
You take one subtest at a time and keep your best score on each, so you can pass the strongest ones first and focus on the rest. A wrong answer costs nothing extra, so answer every question.
Try 3 questions
Question 2
In pea plants, the allele for tall stems (T) is dominant over the allele for short stems (t). Two plants with genotype Tt are crossed and produce 400 seeds that grow into plants. About how many of these plants are expected to be short?
Question 3
A city has enough money this year to repave its main street or to build a new library, but not both. Which economic idea does this situation show most directly?
Next step
Questions people ask
What is the HiSET pass rate?
PSI does not publish a pass rate for test takers. Its benchmark is that about 60% of graduating high school seniors would pass on the first attempt.
Which HiSET subtest is the hardest?
It depends on you. Many people find Math hardest because algebra is 45% of it. Take the free diagnostic to see which subtest is weakest for you.
How long should I study for the HiSET?
It depends on your starting point. Start with a diagnostic, then study your weakest subtest first; book a subtest when your practice scores are steady.