Alamo Adult Education Program FAQ's

Adult Education Program

What are the qualifications for the Alamo Colleges Adult Education Program?
  • 18 years or older when applying for the program
  • Authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Have a valid photo ID
  • Have not earned an associate's degree or higher
  • Willing to take assessments related to barriers, academics, skills aptitude, and workplace readiness
  • Committed to completing the program
What is the cost to attend classes?

All training offered through Alamo Colleges Adult Education is at no cost to eligible participants. 

Where are the classes and training held?

Alamo Colleges Adult Education offers classes remotely and in person. Locations for in-person classes are: 

How do I register for classes?

Sign up and attend a SMART Choice Orientation where you will receive information about your program and ... 

  • Complete an online application (30-45 minutes) 
  • Complete a CASAS assessment (2 – 3 hours) 
  • Meet with a Career Navigator to register for your class or training. 

High School Equivalency Program

How do I know if I am eligible for the High School Equivalency program?

Students who are at least 18 years old and have not earned a high school diploma from a school in the U.S. or another country may take HSE courses. Students under age 19 must submit additional approvals.

Do I have to enroll in HSE classes to take the exam and earn an HSE certificate?

No, you don’t have to take HSE classes to take one of the four state-approved tests to earn a high school equivalency certificate. Contact GED.com to schedule your test. Even if you think you are prepared for your HSE test, you should consider taking HSE classes for access to study aids, free testing vouchers, dedicated advisors, and more.

If I have already passed some of the GED® test, can I just focus on the subjects I haven’t passed?

If you have passed parts of the GED® test before January 2014, your scores are no longer valid, and you will need to take the revised test. Also, if you passed portions of the GED®, your scores may not be high enough to achieve the required total passing score. Taking classes for all test subjects can help you raise your overall test score.

If I am having a challenging time in high school, should I leave and take the HSE test or HSE classes instead?

This should be addressed on a case-by-case basis, please contact our Adult Education office.

What are HSE classes like?

HSE classes cover all subject areas and are matched to students’ reading level. Teaching methods include lectures, small group discussions, and self-directed study.

How long will it take to complete my GED?

To complete the GED varies from one student to the next depending on where they are starting from academically, and how much time you are able to commit to your studies. Students have completed their GED in as little as a month, and sometimes to six years. The amount of time is up to you.

What if I passed the GED® exam, but I lost my certificate? 

If your HSE certificate was issued in Texas, contact the Texas Education Agency to obtain a duplicate.

If English is not my first language, but my goal is to earn my HSE certificate, should I go to ESL or HSE classes first?

The Adult Education officecan help you find the class that is best for you. If you are a lower-level English speaker, beginning in ESL classes might be best. ACC offers a Spanish HSE class, as well as a transition class for higher-level ESL students who want to get their HSE credential.

English as a Second Language 

If English is not my native language, but my goal is to pass my high school equivalency (HSE) exam (such as the GED®), should I take ESL classes or HSE classes first?

This is best addressed on a case-by-case basis. Lower-level English speakers might want to start in ESL classes. HSE classes do not focus on many of the skills ESL students need to learn. Often students who start with ESL classes progress through the levels faster than students who started in an HSE class.

Career Pathways

Can I get a professional certificate?

Yes. The Career Training offered through Alamo Colleges Adult Education ends with an industry-recognized certification.

Are textbooks included?

Yes, textbooks and supplies are included. Textbooks are also available to borrow.

Do I need a High School Diploma for Career Training classes?

Yes, we require students to have a High School Diploma or GED to classes for career certification.

What Career Trainings do you offer?
  • Clinical Medical Assistant  
  • Medical Front Office  
  • IT Fundamentals and A+ 
  • Bookkeeping (QuickBooks and Notary Certification included)
  • HR Associate Professional
  • Certified Production Technician
Do I need immunizations to enroll in the Medical Assistant class?

Yes, you do need immunization records to enroll in a Medical Assisting class. Shot records can be obtained through the City of San Antonio (for San Antonio residents) 

Required Immunizations are: 

  • Varicella 1st Dose and 2nd Dose 
  • Hepatitis B 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Dose 
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results within 1 year