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Adult Education and Literacy

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The mission of Adult Education & Literacy (AEL) is to provide College and Career Readiness to adults 16 years of age or older. The programs address the needs of adults who want to earn a high school diploma or equivalency; improve their foundational academic skills; or improve their ability to read, speak, and write the English language. AEL offers several programs to meet the needs of every student we serve. Classes are at various times and days in both Henderson and Transylvania counties and are tuition-free.

Individuals under 18 years of age must complete an Affidavit for Minors form and submit to the AEL office prior to enrollment.

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Adult High School (AHS)

This program will prepare the student for higher education and the workforce by helping them complete their high school diploma. Students will complete required coursework for a high school diploma (i.e. English 3, Math 1, Biology) based on evaluation of the student’s official high school transcript. The program is offered on a web-based platform with instructor guidance and support.

High School Equivalency (HSE) Preparation

This program will prepare students to take and pass the ETS HiSET or Pearson VUE GED tests to earn a North Carolina Community College High School Equivalency Diploma. Subjects covered include reading, writing, math, social studies and science. HSE completion times vary depending on a student’s individual goals, time commitment and educational levels. Distance learning options are available.

Multiple Pathways to High School Equivalency (MPHSE) is an option for our students to combine High School Equivalency test scores, high school credits, and Adult High School courses to obtain the High School Equivalency diploma. All HSE students are encouraged to submit an official copy of their high school transcript and/or High School Equivalency test scores to be evaluated for MPHSE.

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English Language Acquisition (ELA)

This program is designed to help English language learners improve their competency in reading, writing and speaking the English language.

Clases de la Adquisición del Idioma Inglés

Este programa esta diseñado para ayudar a los estudiantes del idioma inglés a mejorar sus habilidades en lectura, escritura y hablar el idioma inglés.

Foundational Studies (FS)

Classes are designed to strengthen student’s skills in reading, writing, and math and basic employment related skills. Instruction may be contextualized based on student’s college and career goals.

Accelerated Transitions (AT)

Students interested in simultaneously obtaining a high school credential and career related certificate may be eligible for this program. AT provides an excellent opportunity for students to begin college or career related classes tuition free. Eligibility is determined based on educational levels. The following pathways are available: Welding, Computer Integrated Machining, Mechatronics, Automotive Collision Repair, Office Assistant, Early Childhood Education, Nurse Aide, Basic Law Enforcement. Other pathways may be available.

  • Frequently asked questions about AT

High School Equivalency Testing

High School equivalency testing is available at both the Henderson and Transylvania County campuses. Any individual not seeking High School Equivalency preparation prior to testing can register directly through the ETS HiSET or Pearson VUE GED websites:

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Transcripts

Earned your HSE diploma and need a copy of your transcript?
Follow this link for instructions on how to obtain a transcript:

Request a Transcript

Contact Us

Adult Education and Literacy

For more information on classes or testing at both the Henderson County and Transylvania County campuses, please contact:
(828) 694-1745

2026-27 Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose (V4)

Beginning the 2026-27 academic year, all “Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose” forms must be completed in the Offices of Financial Aid.