Courses are usually given through county boards of education at learning centers and in high schools, through continuing education departments of colleges, and through private programs and schools. Some of the courses offered focus on remedial reading and math, and others often include study in job specific training, hobbies, parenting, interpersonal communication, and other adult living skills.

Adult Basic Education (ABE) and Literacy

Adult Basic Education (ABE) helps students improve basic skills in reading, writing, mathematics and critical thinking. Most ABE and literacy students do not have a high school diploma. ABE programs offer classroom instruction, small-group instruction and individualized instruction within groups. For information about ABE and literacy programs in your area, call the National Literacy Hotline at (800) 228-8813. Before starting an ABE or literacy program, call the program and ask if there are teachers or tutors in your area who understand how to teach people with learning disabilities.

The GED Tests

The GED is a series of five timed tests. The individual tests are:

Those who pass the five tests earn a GED diploma. Most employers and colleges recognize the GED diploma as a high school equivalency diploma. You can prepare for the GED Tests through your adult education programs.

You can take the GED Tests with accommodations, if you need them. Accommodations on the tests can include one or more of the following, depending on your needs: extra time, a private room, large print version, audiocassette, use of a scribe and use of a calculator. To request accommodations on the tests, you will need to complete a request form that you can obtain from your local GED Testing Center.