Ohio High School Equivalency
The Library supports community literacy by providing space for volunteer tutors, adult new reader materials, High School Equivalency study guides, and contact lists for literacy programs in our Adult Learning Center.
What is High School Equivalence?
Similar to a regular high school diploma, a High School Equivalence Diploma, opens a new window can be used to apply for jobs and promotions, pursue a college degree, or reach personal goals. The Ohio High School Equivalence Diploma has been recognized as the Ohio Certificate of High School Equivalence since Sept. 14, 2016. All previously awarded Ohio High School Equivalence Diplomas are still considered valid.
The High School Equivalence (HSE) office at the Ohio Department of Education offers three options for testing to earn High School Equivalency: GED® & HiSET®. Click here for a list of approved testing centers.
- The GED, opens a new window, which stands for General Educational Development, but is also referred to as a General Education Diploma, is a set of tests that when passed certify the test taker has met high school level academic skills.
- The HiSET exam, opens a new window is a five-part test states use in the process of issuing a high school equivalency credential. The exam allows out of school youth and adults to show they have the same academic knowledge and skills as a high school graduate.
HSE Practice Tests
- Practice Tests: Peterson’s Test Prep has great practice tests and study guides for Ohio’s High School Equivalency Tests – GED and HiSET. You'll need a library card number and PIN to sign in.
Ohio's Adult Diploma Program
The Adult Diploma Program, opens a new window provides job training and a new pathway for adults, ages 20 or older, to earn a high school diploma and industry credentials aligned to one of Ohio’s in-demand jobs.
What makes this program different from a traditional high school setting is the delivery of instruction to adults. Instead of measuring academic achievement through clock hours, seat time or credits earned, the focus is on a competency-based approach that provides a self-paced option. Once competencies have been learned, adults then demonstrate mastery of skill. Each eligible adult works with the provider to create a customized student success plan.
22+ Adult High School Diploma Program
The 22+ Adult HSD Program, opens a new window helps adults earn a high school diploma. The program is free to adults who are over 22 years old, living in Ohio and do not have a diploma or a High School Equivalency credential.
Counselors work with the adult learners to develop individual plans to identify the courses and assessments needed to graduate and earn a diploma. Providers try their best to schedule instructional dates and times to meet the needs of adult learners.
Adult Education Classes in the Community
Need help studying? There are a number of Adult Education classes throughout the area, including those listed below.
- Cincinnati Public Schools Adult Education/Aspire. HSE and ESOL classes at various locations throughout Cincinnati. Call 513-363-6100 for details.
- Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development. Free classes at various locations throughout Cincinnati and the suburbs. Call 513-771-8881 for details.
- Santa Maria Community Services. HSE preparation and job-readiness training. Call 513-557-2700 for details.
- Education Matters. Free classes with childcare for GED students (call first to see if space is available). Call 513-244-2214 for details.
- Literacy Network of Greater Cincinnati. Adult basic reading classes. For more information call 513-621-7323.
- National Literacy Directory, opens a new window. Use this directory to find a local program.
- Camp Washington Community School. One-on-one GED instruction, GED pre-tests, and tutoring services. Call 513-542-1637 for details.
GED Practice tests
- Peterson's Test Prep. You’ll need a library card number and PIN to sign in, but this database has great practice tests as well as the full-text of some GED study guides.
