Is a High School Equivalency Credential the Same as a High School Diploma?
Quick answer: A high school equivalency (HSE) credential shows that you passed a set of state-approved subject tests in place of finishing a traditional high school program. Most employers, colleges and training programs treat an HSE as meeting a high school education requirement, but it is not the same document as a diploma. Your HSE record comes from your state. A traditional diploma comes from the high school or district that awarded it.
Looking for your HSE record? Contact the high school equivalency office at your state's department of education, or the adult education office in the state where you tested. Want a keepsake? Our high school equivalency collection has personalized, non-official display copies for framing and gifts.
HSE credential vs. high school diploma at a glance
| High school diploma | High school equivalency (HSE) credential | |
|---|---|---|
| How it is earned | Completing a school's credit and graduation requirements | Passing state-approved subject tests |
| Who keeps the record | The high school or school district | Your state's education agency or HSE office |
| Typical uses | Jobs, college, training programs, personal records | The same uses, accepted as an equivalency in most cases |
| Keepsake option | The school-issued diploma, or a personalized display copy | The state-issued credential, or a personalized display copy |
Acceptance policies differ from one employer, college or agency to the next. When someone asks for proof of education, check exactly what they need before you send anything.
How to get a copy of your HSE record
- Find the state where you tested. Records stay with that state, even if you have moved.
- Visit that state's department of education website and search for "high school equivalency records" or "adult education transcripts."
- Follow the state's steps to request a transcript, score report or credential copy. Some states use an online portal; others take a mailed or emailed form.
- If you tested many years ago, ask the state's adult education office. They can tell you which agency holds older records.
For more detail, read how to request a copy of your high school equivalency certificate and what an HSE certificate is and why it matters.
Where a personalized display copy fits
Some people want something to frame, give as a gift or keep on the wall once they have earned their HSE. Hey Congrats makes personalized, non-official display copies in our high school equivalency collection. They are celebration pieces only. They do not stand in for the record your state keeps, and they should never be shown to an employer, school or agency as proof of education.
Frequently asked questions
Is an HSE the same as a high school diploma?
No. An HSE is earned by passing tests and is issued through your state. A diploma is issued by a high school or district after you finish its requirements. Both can satisfy many "high school education" requirements, but they are different documents.
Do colleges accept a high school equivalency?
Many do. Check the admissions policy for each school, and request your HSE transcript from your state when the school asks for it.
How do I get a copy of my HSE?
Contact the education agency or HSE office in the state where you tested and follow its request process.
Can I buy a high school equivalency online?
No. An HSE is earned through testing, and your state holds the record. What you can order online is a personalized display copy for celebration or decoration. See our HSE display copy dos and don'ts.
Is an HSE display copy the same as my HSE record?
No. A display copy is a personalized keepsake design. The record you use for jobs, college or licensing comes from your state.
Bottom line
A high school equivalency credential is not identical to a traditional diploma, but it is a widely recognized equivalent. Get your record from your state. If you want a keepsake once you have earned it, browse our high school equivalency collection.
