The application process for eligible institutions wishing to provide one or more high school equivalency diploma (HSED) alternative pathways is now available.
Previously, the only way for students to earn a HSED was by passing the HiSET®, the state-approved high school equivalency test. This changed when the Iowa State Board of Education (Board) adopted an administrative rule change earlier this year establishing alternative pathways for Iowans to earn a HSED.
To provide students with alternative pathways, eligible institutions may submit applications, along with all required signatures, to the Iowa Department of Education (Department) for approval and authorization for any or all of the following HSED options:
- HSED Based on Department-Approved Test
- HSED Based on Attainment of High School Credit
- HSED Based on Postsecondary Degree
- HSED Based on Foreign Postsecondary Degreee
Applications will be accepted on an on-going basis and applicants will be notified of the Department's decision regarding approval within 10 business days. Approved institutions may begin offering options 2, 3, and/or 4 as early as July 1, 2018.
For implementation guidance concerning these four options, programs are strongly encouraged to review the Chapter 32 Implementation Guide. More information regarding these four options can be found on the Department's HSED Alternative Pathways webpage.
Contact Jayne Smith, Education Program Consultant, jayne.smith@iowa.gov, or 515-725-0046, with comments or questions.
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