Getting your GED or HiSET certification doesn't have to drain your savings—but it does require planning. Most test-takers spend between $150 and $2,500 depending on whether they go solo or work with tutors and prep programs. Let's break down exactly where your money goes and how to make smart choices.
The Test Itself: Registration and Exam Fees
Your first fixed cost is the certification exam. GED testing costs $30 per subject through official testing centers (that's $120 for all four subjects if you take them separately). HiSET exams run $20 to $30 per subject, also about $120 total. Some states subsidize test fees for eligible individuals—check your state's GED or HiSET program website before paying full price. A few states offer free retakes within certain windows, so clarify this before your first attempt.
Self-Study Materials: Budget $0–$300
If you're disciplined and learn well independently, you can prep for cheap:
- Free options: Khan Academy, official GED.com practice tests, and YouTube tutorials cost nothing and cover most content adequately.
- Paid prep books: Barron's, Kaplan, or Princeton Review study guides run $15–$40 each. Buy used copies online for half that price.
- Online prep platforms: Programs like Coursera, Udemy, or GED.com's own materials range from $20–$100 one-time. Some cover a single subject; others bundle all four.
Most self-study candidates spend $50–$150 on books and digital resources combined.
One-on-One Tutoring: $30–$100 per Hour
Hiring a private tutor gives you personalized pacing and feedback but costs more. Rates vary significantly:
- Local tutors or community college instructors: $30–$60 per hour
- Online tutoring platforms (Wyzant, Tutor.com, Care.com): $40–$80 per hour
- Specialized GED tutors with strong credentials: $60–$100 per hour
Most students benefit from 10–20 tutoring sessions (roughly 20–40 hours) to fill knowledge gaps, which lands you at $600–$2,000 for tutoring alone. If you only need help with math or reading, fewer sessions might suffice.
Group Classes and Programs: $200–$1,500
Community colleges, adult education centers, and nonprofits often offer structured GED prep classes:
- Community college courses: $100–$400 per semester (6–12 weeks)
- Nonprofit GED programs: Often free or sliding-scale ($0–$150), especially if you qualify for assistance
- Private prep companies: $500–$1,500 for comprehensive programs (4–12 weeks)
Group classes give you structure and peer support but less customization than one-on-one work. They're ideal if you struggle with self-motivation or need to cover big content gaps.
Retake Costs: Plan for $120–$360
Most test-takers pass on the first attempt, but budget for at least one retake just in case. Failing one subject means paying $30 again to retake it. Worst-case scenario: retaking all four subjects runs another $120. Many tutoring programs offer free or discounted follow-up sessions if you don't pass, so ask before committing.
Hidden Costs and Accessibility Fees
Don't overlook:
- Childcare or transportation: If you're attending in-person classes, factor in parking or gas ($20–$100 monthly).
- Accommodations for disabilities: Extra time, large-print materials, or specialized testing environments cost $0 (they're legally required) but may require advance documentation and scheduling fees of $50–$150 in some centers.
- Study materials shipped or printed: $10–$50 if you prefer physical books over digital.
Creating Your Actual Budget
Start by answering these questions:
- Do I learn best solo, in groups, or with one-on-one help? (This determines your biggest expense.)
- How much time can I commit weekly? (More time = less tutoring needed.)
- What subjects are my weakest areas? (Target tutoring there instead of everywhere.)
- Can I access free programs through my employer, library, or local nonprofit? (Many people don't know these exist.)
A realistic budget for most people: $300–$800 (self-study + light tutoring or group classes). Reaching the high end ($2,000+) usually means comprehensive private tutoring or longer programs.
Comparing tutors and programs becomes much easier when you use a platform like Mercoly, where you can find and evaluate trusted GED and HiSET providers in your area side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get my GED for free? Yes—many nonprofits and adult education programs offer free GED prep, especially for low-income or unemployed adults. Check your local library, workforce development center, or community college for no-cost options.
Q: How much should I budget if I'm terrible at math? Budget an extra $300–$600 for focused math tutoring (5–10 sessions with a tutor). Math is the subject most people struggle with, so targeted help here pays off.
Q: Is it cheaper to take all four GED subjects at once or spread them out? The exam fee is the same either way. Taking subjects one at a time lets you focus prep better but extends your timeline; taking all four together is faster if you're ready.
Ready to find qualified GED prep tutors and programs? Compare providers today and match your budget to the right fit.