As you get closer to completing the adult education program at NYADI The College of Automotive and Diesel Technology, it’s time to start getting ready to take the high school equivalency (HSE) exam. The exam is called the TASC and it tests you on high school-level material in a variety of subjects. With enough practice and preparation, you’ll be able to pass and successfully earn your high school equivalency diploma.

How to Prepare

Because NYADI is an Ability to Benefit (ATB) technical school, students can enroll in TASC preparation courses at the same time as their career training courses. The TASC Preparation Program is a 180 clock-hour program that lasts 30 weeks. It covers all the material you’ll be expected to know on the HSE exam. So, as the test day approaches, you can feel confident that you’re ready to take it and pass.

To prepare even more, it’s a good idea to try sample questions and to take a practice test or two to keep the material fresh in your mind. Make sure you get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy breakfast. When you arrive, try to stay calm and relaxed so that you can focus on the questions.

What to Expect

The TASC exam will test you on five major subject areas. They include:

Math

• Numbers and quantities
• Algebra
• Functions
• Geometry
• Statistics and probability

Science

• Physical science
• Life science
• Earth science
• Space science

Social Studies

• History
• Economics
• Geography
• Civics
• Government

Reading

• Reading and interpreting passages of literature, including fiction, poetry and drama, as well as informational text

Writing

• Identify grammar errors
• Make corrections in sentence structure, usage, mechanics and organization
• Essay writing

You’ll have anywhere from 50 to 110 minutes to complete each section. To pass, you’ll need a score of 500 on each subject area and a score of at least 2 out of 8 on the essay. A mathematics formula sheet will be provided and you’ll be able to use a calculator for a portion of the math section, but not all of it.

Are You Ready for the TASC?

NYADI is here to help you succeed and accomplish all your education and career goals. If you have any questions or concerns about taking the HSE exam, talk to your TASC Preparation Program instructor about more ways you can prepare.