Frequently Asked Questions
About LaGuardia Community College High School Equivalency Programs
What is the High School Equivalency (HSE) test?
The new high school equivalency exam in New York State is called the TASC Test. TASC
stands for Test Assessing Secondary Completion. The TASC is a set of tests that certify
American high-school level academic skills. It is available for students who did not graduate
from high school and is available in both English and Spanish. The TASC test replaces the
G.E.D. exam.
Does LaGuardia offer HSE classes that can help me get ready for the exam?
Yes, LaGuardia offers many HSE programs that serve the needs of different students, e.g.,
adults, out-of-school youth, Veterans, the Deaf and Hearing Impaired, and students with special
work interests, such as in healthcare, science or business.
How do I know which LaGuardia HSE program is right for me?
Visit LaGuardia’s “Which HSE Program Is Right for Me?” page (link is:
http://www.lagcc.cuny.edu/uploadedFiles/ACE/pdf/HSE_Summer2014.pdf). For free classes,
call 718-482-5385. For tuition-based classes and Spanish HSE, call 718-482-5744. For
information about classes for students 19 and younger, call 718-482-5340. For information
about classes for people who are deaf or hearing impaired, call 866-533-3609 (VP/Voice).
What is the cost of the program?
It depends. Many programs are free but can have long waiting lists. Some programs charge
modest tuition. If you can pay tuition for a HSE class, you can usually be guaranteed a seat in
the next session.
When do HSE classes meet?
HSE classes are offered in the daytime, evenings and on Saturdays, depending on the program.
Many programs are intensive and require students attend between 9-16 hours per week of
classroom time.
Is there a test to get into the HSE classes?
Yes, all programs require an entrance test to make sure you are placed into the program that is
right for you.
When will the next session of classes begin?
Classes usually begin in September, January, and April of each year, but some programs also
have continuous admissions. Call the appropriate number above based on which program is
right for you for more information about specific programs start dates.
Where will classes be held?
LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City, NY.
The closest subway stops are:
 E or V trains to 23rd Street and Ely (or Queens Plaza)
 7 train to 45th Road/Court House Square (or 33/Rawson Street)
 G train to Court Square (or Queens Plaza)
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How long will it take to earn my HSE diploma?
This depends on you and how much time and energy you devote to preparing for the TASC and
doing your schoolwork. Some students earn their HSE diploma after one session of classes, but
others may take up to three sessions of study.
What happens once I get my HSE diploma?
Students in the HSE Programs receive career counseling and college advisement while still in
class. Once you get your HSE diploma, you can work closely with our counselors to apply to
college or certification programs within your career of interest.
I am not sure what career I want to pursue after I earn my HSE diploma.
For more information about careers that are right for you visit: www.mynextmove.org
I earned a high school diploma in my home country. Do I need to take the TASC test to
enroll in college?
You may be able to apply a high school diploma from another country for enrollment into
college. To learn more, visit:
http://www.cuny.edu/admissions/undergraduate/afteryouapply/outside/sscredentials.html or call (212) 997-CUNY.
What about my old G.E.D. scores? I passed some sections of the old test already.
You will be able to use the passing scores from up to four sections of the old G.E.D. test, but
you will have to take every section of the new exam the first time you take it. You will need to
provide your G.E.D. transcript. To order a copy of your transcript, visit:
http://www.acces.nysed.gov/ged/duplicate_diploma.html
I only need to pass the math section of the TASC. Can I join the program and only
participate in the math class?
No. You must attend all classes, even for those sections of the TASC or former G.E.D. you may
have already passed.
Is the test free?
The TASC test is free to anyone in New York State. You should never pay to take the test.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You should never pay to take the test or for a high school equivalency
diploma. To make sure you make an informed decision about test preparation, visit:
http://www.nyc.gov/html/adulted/downloads/pdf/know_before_you_enroll_english.pdf
Are there accommodations available for test takers with special needs?
TASC test takers are eligible for accommodations, provided they complete a special application
process. To learn more about accommodations visit:
http://www.acces.nysed.gov/ged/accomodations.html
How can I learn more about the new test?
To learn more about the TASC test visit www.tasctest.com or www.gedcompass.org
I feel ready to take the TASC test. What should I do?
Visit http://www.acces.nysed.gov/ged/app_process.html to print a test application. LaGuardia
has test dates available throughout 2014.
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