High School Diploma Programs

Don't have a high school diploma? You do have options!

You can choose between two ways to earn a Maryland high school diploma at AACC: enroll in the GED® Test Preparation program or complete the National External Diploma Program (NEDP®). AACC offers both programs at no cost to participants. GED® classes and the NEDP® are only offered in English. If you need to improve your English skills before entering either of the programs, contact the ELL office for information about free English language classes.

How to Get Started

Before registering for either program, you must attend an orientation and assessment session in person. During this session, you will learn about the GED® Test Preparation and NEDP® programs, complete a timed assessment in reading and math, and discuss your educational plan with a member of the intake team.

Plan Ahead: Orientation and Assessment Scheduling

Orientation and assessment sessions are offered year-round, but appointments and class space fill quickly. Scheduling early gives you the best chance to begin classes in the semester you hope to start. 

When to attend orientation: 

• Fall classes (begin September and October)
  Attend orientation no later than July or August. 
• Winter classes (begin January and February)
  Attend orientation no later than October, November or December.
• Spring classes (begin April and May)
  Attend orientation no later than February or March. 
• Summer classes (begin in July)
  Attend orientation no later than May or June.

Adult Basic Skills (ABS) & GED® Test Preparation Program

This free program is designed for adults ages 18 and older who do not have a high school diploma and want to prepare for the GED® exam. 

Students receive instruction in all four GED® subject areas: Mathematical Reasoning, Science, Social Studies and Reasoning Through Language Arts. 

Classes are designed to fit your busy life. Choose from morning, evening or weekend classes, available online or in person. Our experienced instructors provide the guidance and support you need to prepare for the GED® exam and reach your educational goals. 

Who can enroll?

To enroll in our free GED® preparation program, you must: 

• Meet the age and school enrollment requirements listed on this page 
• Attend an orientation and complete an assessment

For online classes, you will need access to a computer (desktop, laptop or Chromebook) with a camera and reliable internet. 

Age and School Enrollment Requirements

Students ages 18 and older:

You are eligible to enroll if you are at least 18 years old and do not have a high school diploma. 

Students ages 16–17: 

You may be eligible to enroll if you meet one of the following requirements: 

• Withdrawn from high school: You must provide an official, signed Maryland Proof of Official School Withdrawal. 
• Home instruction: You must provide a signed Home School Verification Form.   

GED Ready

GED Ready® (practice test) is half the length of the actual GED® tests and includes questions similar in content, difficulty and format to the actual tests. This is an excellent predictor of how you may perform on the official tests. After completing GED Ready®, staff will meet with you to discuss your scores and make recommendations.

Mathematical Reasoning for the GED® Test

This program is designed to review math skills needed for the GED® test and provide instruction in number sense and operations, data analysis, algebra, geometry, and test-taking strategies. This course meets virtually twice a week, with required completion of assignments outside of class. After successful completion, you can take the GED Ready® Math practice test at no cost. Enrollment is based on documentation of passing scores on the Science, Social Studies and Reasoning through Language Arts sections of the GED® test.

Official GED® Test

AACC is a certified official testing location, however you must register through the GED Testing Service. For details about testing dates, locations and costs, visit the Maryland Department of Labor or the GED Testing Service.

National External Diploma Program (NEDP®)

The National External Diploma Program (NEDP®) offers adults an alternative to the GED® exam. This online, self-paced program allows you to earn a Maryland High School Diploma by demonstrating your skills through real-world tasks rather than attending traditional classes or taking a series of exams. 

You'll work independently to complete assignments that demonstrate your skills in reading, writing, math, communication, critical thinking and other areas important for everyday life and employment. While in the program, you'll meet regularly with a trained NEDP® advisor who will guide you through the process and help you build a portfolio of your work. 

NEDP® may be a great fit if you prefer to learn independently, need a flexible schedule or find traditional classrooms and standardized tests challenging.

Who can enroll in NEDP®?

To enroll in the National External Diploma Program (NEDP®), you must: 

• Be 18 or older 
• Be a Maryland resident
• Have  a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, learner's permit or state ID)
• Have access to the internet and a computer (desktop, laptop or Chromebook)
• Attend an orientation and achieve the minimum qualifying scores on the reading and math assessments

Funding for this Program

The total cost of this project is $925,338, of which 40% ($366,897) is funded through the U.S. Department of Education, 40% ($373,373) is funded through the Maryland Department of Labor and 20% ($185,068) is supported by Anne Arundel Community College.

Questions?

Email gedprogram@aacc.edu or call 410-777-1823. Provide your name, phone number and email address, and a staff member will respond to you during office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To request information in your preferred language, call 410-777-2901 or email esloffice@aacc.edu.