Adult Education Philadelphia (AEPHL), part of the Mayor’s Office of Education, holds a Citywide Graduation every year to celebrate Philadelphians who have earned their High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma. With speakers, caps and gowns, and stories from students, the event brings together adult learners, their families, city leaders, and community partners. It honors the people who chose to invest in themselves, work toward their goals, and earn their HSE. Adults from all backgrounds and ages complete this goal, proving that it is never too late to achieve this dream.
Won’t you join us at our next Citywide Graduation?
What is the High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma and why is it important?
In Pennsylvania, the Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma (CSSD) is a high school equivalency (HSE) credential available to Pennsylvania residents who do not possess a high school diploma. Philadelphia residents can take free classes at several adult education providers funded by the City to help them prepare for one of two tests: The GED or HiSET. Learners take 4-5 tests in different subjects to pass the full exam and earn their high school credential.
According to the most recent 5-year census data, 150,760 residents (12%) of Philadelphians lack a high school diploma. This matters because on average, the earnings of an individual with a high school diploma or its equivalent are 27% higher than those without. The HSE diploma allows residents to go on to higher education, enter workforce programs, or simply increase their earning power.
How AEPHL supports Philadelphians to get their high school equivalency
The City’s Adult Education Philadelphia office contracts with several providers to offer free HSE programs. These include:
- Community College of Philadelphia (Main Campus, Online, and at some Free Library branches)
- Congreso de Latinos Unidos (North Philly – HSE classes offered in English and Spanish)
- Goodwill Helms Academy (North Philly, Juniata Park, and West Philly)
- Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association (Lower Northeast Philly)
- Philadelphia FIGHT Critical Path Learning Center (Center City)
AEPHL also collaborates with the following State funded Title II providers who offer free HSE programs as well:
- Beyond Literacy (North and West Philly)
- District 1199c Training and Upgrading Fund (Center City and Online)
- Temple University (North Philly)
In addition, the School District of Philadelphia Reengagement Center offers several options for students 18 years or older to return to school to earn their high school diploma.
Our providers offer programs at many locations across the city. To find a program near you, please call the AEPHL Hotline at 1-833-750-5627. The highly trained call center staff will help you find a provider that can meet your needs and schedule an appointment.
Once your appointment is confirmed, you will attend an intake session to complete an initial assessment. This assessment helps the provider enroll you in a class that is the right fit for you.
It’s never too late to get started earning your high school degree
Earning a High School Equivalency diploma as an adult takes determination, resilience, and a whole lot of hard work — often while balancing jobs, families, and countless other responsibilities. The City congratulates every graduate who crosses the stage each year.
Don’t wait. Get started today to enroll in a program to earn your high school diploma and take one step closer to joining us on stage.
Call our hotline: 1-833-750-5627 to enroll today. Visit www.phila.gov/AdultEd for more info.
