Two options for earning your high school equivalency diploma through PCC

Piedmont Community College’s (PCC) Adult Basic Skills (ABS) program provides free instruction for adults, ages 18 and older, preparing to be college or career ready. Through these classes, participants may:
• Prepare for high school equivalency tests through GED® or HiSET® testing
• Improve or learn reading, writing and math skills;
• Learn English as a Second Language (ESL);
• Gain skills needed for college or job entry;
• Expand skills needed to help your with your child’s education;
• Attend a traditional class or hybrid online class
Those interested in taking classes with the goal of earning their high school equivalency diploma have two test options once they feel prepared: GED (General Educational Development) or HiSET (High School Equivalency Test).

A NC Community College System High School Equivalency Diploma is awarded to students who pass either exam. In addition, upon successful completion, the High School Equivalency gradate has the opportunity to participate in PCC’s annual graduation ceremony held in May.

Both the GED and HiSET exams are:
• Nationally recognized high school equivalency tests offered in NC and other states;
• Addressing the following subjects: Language Arts (reading and writing), Math, Social Studies, and Science;
• Available as English and Spanish versions;
• Accessible through an online registration

Currently, PCC offers a computer based GED® test and a paper/pencil HiSET® test, thus allowing students a format choice that best meets their needs.

As of January 2019, the HiSET test price increased to $75 while the GED test price remained $80. Both the HiSET® and GED® tests are offered at PCC’s Person County Campus while the HiSET® test is offered at the Caswell County Campus.

To learn more about the free courses offered to adult learners who want to study for their high school equivalency diploma through PCC’s Adult Basic Skills program, call (336) 322-2155 (Person County) and (336) 694-8057 (Caswell County) or visit www.piedmontcc.edu/abs.

The ABS program at PCC is a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Title II adult education program.

Photo: High School Equivalency Diploma Recipients at PCC