State of Illinois High School Diploma (GED®/HISET®)

Elgin Community College is a community partner and offers preparatory classes for the Illinois High School Diploma Test, ESL classes, and transition services for community members. Many students also take advantage of ECC’s workforce development services.

Class Offerings

Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes

These classes provide reading, math, and writing instruction and help students improve their basic skills to qualify for Adult Secondary Education (GED/HiSET) level classes. These classes are offered in English only. Classes are available Monday to Thursday in the mornings and evenings. Both in-person and online options are available.

Adult Secondary Education (ASE) classes

These classes help students prepare for the State of Illinois High School Diploma test. These classes provide language arts, math, social studies, and science instruction. They also help students to prepare for what the state Constitution requires. These classes are offered in English and Spanish.

• English class offerings are available Monday to Thursday mornings and evenings, in-person and online.
• Spanish class offerings are available during the summer on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
• ECC offers an online self-paced Illinois High School diploma class for students placed into ASE-level classes. This course is offered in English only.

Pre-Testing

Before you can get started with classes to prepare for the GED and HiSET exams, you'll take a pre-test that assesses your basic skills in reading and math. This pre-test helps to determine appropriate placement and success in classes.

You will need to register for the pre-test.

For information on registering for the pre-test, please go to the Adult Basic Testing Services page. 

All ABE/ASE classes are free of charge. Students attending ECC on certain types of visas are not permitted to enroll in the free adult education program. You cannot be currently enrolled in high school to qualify for ABE or ASE classes.

Online Registration

Please complete our inquiry form to receive more information about registering for ABE/ASE classes. This form will help us understand your specific needs and preferences, allowing us to provide you with the necessary guidance and assistance throughout the registration process. Completing this form will ensure we can tailor our support to meet your requirements best and help you start your educational journey with confidence.

Email ABECRegistration@elgin.edu or call 847-214-6904 for more information.

Inquiry Form

State of Illinois High School Diploma FAQ

Do you have a quick question? Use our Live Chat or search the FAQ to learn how to earn a high school diploma.

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Stevens Amendment (FY24):
Stevens Amendment: Approximately $718,727 (40%) of the Illinois Adult Education and Literacy Program cost at Elgin Community College is federally funded under Title II, Adult Education and Family Literacy of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014.