High School Completion/GED

Adult Basic Education (ABE)

The Adult Basic Education program emphasizes basic skills in computation and communication. Some basic living skills are also taught. This program is designed for adults functioning at eighth grade level or below. Adult students, 19 years of age or older, may attend classes in reading, writing, math, social studies and science. You may attend for the purpose of "brushing up" skills or in preparation to pass the General Education Development (GED) exams.

High School Completion (GED)

Instruction for high school completion is conducted on an individual basis depending on your individual needs. Assessments are given to you to determine which areas you need to study before taking the GED examination. This program is directed toward adults who are at least 18 years of age, out of school, and have not completed the requirements for a high school diploma. Upon completing this program, you receive a high school equivalency diploma -GED - from the state of Iowa. Students may prepare by attending GED classes in any of the five subject test areas: writing, reading, math, social studies and science. GED testing services are available in each county. The test fee is $100.

High School Completion - Diploma Credit

Diploma credit is given to students who complete the appropriate courses. These courses are approved by your local school districts and are offered through the Success Centers at Iowa Lakes.

Students have the choice of having credits transferred back to their high school in order to have the diploma awarded by the high school. Or students may have credit transferred from their high school to Iowa Lakes and, once sufficient credit is earned, their diploma is issued by Iowa Lakes. Instruction is determined by request and referrals from the local school district.

Alternative High School

The Alternative High School program is an excellent change for young adults between the ages of 16 and 21 to earn a high school diploma.  Students are offered flexibility in a non-traditional setting. Enrollment is limited. Upon completion, students are awarded a high school diploma from their local district. There is no cost to students. The Alternative Program is located in Emmetsburg.