Classes are offered online and in-person at the following locations:

• Charles City
• Forest City
• Garner
• Hampton
• Mason City

What should I expect if I enroll?
Students attend a required orientation to learn the details of the program. At orientation, students will take two assessments, Language Arts and Math. These assessments are not tests, don’t worry. They only determine what you remember from high school and help instructors know where to start you on your learning journey.

How long will it take?
The length of time it takes to complete the HSE program is different for each student depending on factors like, when you left high school, how much time and effort you put into studying, and your class attendance. On average, it takes most students approximately three to six months to earn their diploma.

Class sessions are eight weeks and attendance is mandatory. Students continue to enroll in sessions until they are ready to start testing. Once a student has accumulated at least 40 hours of class time (however, 70-100 is recommended) students will take a post-test and an official practice test.

How do I actually earn my diploma? 
When a student is ready, they will take the HiSET™, a high school equivalency exam. The HiSET is made up of five sections:  Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Each test costs $15 and can be taken at the NIACC Testing Center in Mason City. Once a student passes all sections, they are invited attend the next Education to Employment Graduation, which is held twice a year in January and June.

Have questions?
Contact Adult Education at (641) 422-4278 or AEL@niacc.edu or complete this interest form and we will contact you.

How do I enroll?
Contact Adult Education at (641) 422-4278 or AEL@niacc.edu.

Keep Moving Forward!
Once you have graduated with your HSED, continue your education and schedule a visit with Chris Frenz to enroll at NIACC!

If you want to explore career options use our Career Services

Contact us for more information