Not finishing high school in New York City doesn’t close doors permanently. Free adult education programs across all five boroughs help adults earn their High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma — the modern equivalent of a GED — along with English language skills, job training, and college preparation. These programs are run by the NYC Department of Education, CUNY, and community organizations, and they are genuinely free. This guide explains what’s available and how to get started.
The High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma: GED vs. TASC vs. HiSET
New York State uses the TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) as its official High School Equivalency exam — not the GED. Both are recognized by employers and colleges, but New York’s HSE credential is earned through TASC. Some programs also offer preparation for the HiSET exam. When enrolling in a program, confirm which exam they prepare students for.
NYC Adult Literacy Program (NYC DOE)
The NYC Department of Education’s Adult and Continuing Education division funds free adult education programs at public school sites across all five boroughs. Programs include:
- HSE (high school equivalency) preparation
- Adult literacy and basic education
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
- Vocational and workforce development
Find programs: schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/adult-and-continuing-education or call (718) 935-5900.
CUNY Adult Literacy Program
The City University of New York (CUNY) operates adult literacy centers at community colleges across all five boroughs. CUNY’s program specifically supports adults preparing for TASC and transitioning to college. It is free for NYC residents and includes:
- HSE preparation classes
- Transition to college counseling
- English language instruction
- Career pathway guidance
Find a CUNY adult literacy program: cuny.edu/academics/academic-programs/adult-literacy/ or call the CUNY Adult Literacy Hotline at (212) 794-5452.
CUNY ASAP — Accelerated Study in Associate Programs
For adults who have already earned their HSE or high school diploma and want to start college, CUNY’s ASAP program provides comprehensive support for students pursuing associate degrees at CUNY community colleges — including free MetroCards, free textbooks, dedicated advisors, and tuition waivers for income-eligible students. One of the most effective college completion programs in the country.
Learn more at cuny.edu/asap or contact your CUNY community college directly.
NYC WorkForce1 Career Centers
For adults who want to combine job skills with education, NYC Small Business Services Workforce1 career centers offer job training, HSE preparation, and direct connections to employment. Many centers partner with adult education providers to create integrated education and employment pathways.
Find a Workforce1 center: nyc.gov/sbs — Workforce1 centers in all five boroughs.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
For adults whose first language is not English, free ESOL classes are available throughout the city at multiple levels from beginner to advanced. NYC has one of the largest networks of free English language instruction anywhere in the country:
- NYC DOE Adult Education ESOL classes — (718) 935-5900
- CUNY Adult Literacy centers — (212) 794-5452
- NYC libraries — many branch libraries offer free ESOL classes or tutoring
- New York Public Library ESOL: nypl.org/esol
- Community organizations — many immigrant-serving organizations offer free ESOL
NYC Libraries: Free Learning Resources
All three NYC library systems (New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Public Library) offer:
- Free ESOL classes and conversation groups
- HSE preparation resources and tutoring referrals
- Free access to online learning platforms (Rosetta Stone, Lynda.com/LinkedIn Learning, and others)
- Quiet study spaces
- Computer and internet access
Literacy Partners and Community-Based Adult Education
- Literacy Partners: (212) 803-3300 | literacypartners.org — free adult literacy, HSE prep, and workforce programs; also offers family literacy programs so parents can learn alongside their children
- Make the Road New York: (718) 565-8500 — ESOL and adult education for immigrant communities
- Brooklyn Public Library’s Adult Learning programs: (718) 230-2100
- Queens Library Adult Learner Program: (718) 990-0700
Financial Aid for Adult Learners
Adults earning an HSE and continuing to college may be eligible for:
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 per year for income-eligible students at CUNY and other colleges — apply at studentaid.gov
- NY State TAP Grant: Additional grant funding for NY residents attending CUNY or SUNY
- CUNY Tuition Waiver: Income-based tuition waiver for CUNY students through programs like ASAP
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GED accepted in New York?
New York State uses TASC as its official HSE exam. The GED is also accepted by most employers and colleges and is recognized nationally. NYC adult education programs generally prepare students for TASC, but ask your specific program which exam they use. Both TASC and GED are widely recognized credentials.
How long does it take to earn a GED or HSE in NYC?
It varies significantly depending on your current academic level and how much time you can commit to studying. Many students complete preparation within 6–12 months of regular class attendance. Programs assess your current level at intake and create a personalized plan.
Can undocumented immigrants enroll in free adult education programs?
Yes. Most NYC adult education programs — including NYC DOE programs and CUNY literacy — do not require documentation of immigration status for enrollment. Programs funded through the NYC DOE are generally open to all NYC adult residents. Contact programs directly to confirm their specific eligibility requirements.
I work full time. Are there evening or weekend programs?
Yes. Many adult education programs specifically offer evening and weekend schedules for working adults. When contacting programs, ask about their schedule options. Online and hybrid programs have also expanded significantly, making it easier to study around work schedules.
