Iowa Western Community College

Distance Education
Adult Basic Education
English Language Learners
Distance Education

Distance Education

Our Distance HiSET classes offer a flexible, supported way for adults to prepare for the High School Equivalency exam from home. Designed for busy schedules and diverse learning needs, these online classes provide structured lessons, guided practice, and ongoing instructor support — all accessible from anywhere.

Whether you’re balancing work, family, or transportation challenges, Distance HiSET gives you the freedom to learn on your own time while staying connected to experienced educators who are committed to your success. Your goals are within reach, no matter where you are.

Students must meet qualifying scores on the CASAS pre-test for this program.

All students must provide an identity document and eligibility document the first day of class. Click the link below for examples of accepted documents.

List of Eligible Status Types and Forms of Documentation

Available Courses

   01/14/2026 - Council Bluffs

Earn Your High School Equivalency and Build a Stronger Future!  

Instruction is delivered online through our platform, Essential Education. Testing will take place on-site at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, Iowa.  In-person orientation is January 8th at Iowa Western Community College-Kinney Hall-Top floor from 9:00 Am to 2:00PM. Orientation attendance is required.

Take the next step toward achieving your goals with our High School Equivalency (HiSET) online preparation course. The program begins with an in-person orientation that includes completing paperwork and placement testing in reading and math. There is a $10 registration fee. To enroll in the online program, participants must meet a minimum reading score equivalent to the 9th-grade level, which will be determined by the reading assessment conducted at orientation. 
 

Start Date: 01/14/2026
End Date: 03/19/2026
Seats Available: 30
Cost: $10
Location: Council Bluffs
Last Updated: 12/07/2025 5:08 pm

FAQ

People learn in many ways. What works well for one person may not work well for someone else. Here are some question and answers about online classes and expectations for the program.
Students must register and pay $10 per class by clicking the registration button under available courses. If you need assistance, call 712-325-3266 or email adulted@iwcc.edu.
It is strongly recommended that students be able to read at a minimum of the 10th grade reading level, which is determined by the CASAS Reading assessment during orientation. Students who score below 10th grade on a CASAS Reading assessment will be encouraged to participate in regular classroom instruction until a CASAS post-test shows a score of 10th grade or higher. Students will also need to provide a current-email address to the Adult Education Center during orientation.
You will need the following: Computer and reliable internet access.
Online students are required to pay a $10 registration fee during registration; however, there is no additional fee for the online class. Students will pay their first testing fee of $18 per test once they are ready to take their first Official HiSET Test. Upon completion of all five official HiSET final exams, a free diploma and transcript can be ordered from diplomasender.com. There is a $20 fee for any additional transcripts.
Online learners’ time on task will be monitored. Students are required to complete a minimum of 8 hours of study time each week to maintain active status. If students do NOT show sufficient activity on the website/software for two weeks, the account will be deactivated.
No transportation? No childcare? Difficult work schedule? No problem! You have the convenience of studying at home and can complete most work on your own time.
No. In many ways, online classes are more challenging. Online classes require a large amount of self-motivation and a strong dedication to learning. Online classes have strict requirements. If the requirements are not followed, students may be dropped from the class.
No. You will need to either be in online classes (if you qualify with test scores) or in person classes.
If online classes are not a good fit for you, you will be able to switch to a face-to-face class starting the next session. Please understand if there is not an opening for a face-to-face class, you may be placed on a waiting list until an opening becomes available.
No. Online students must return to the appropriate IWCC Campus for a CASAS pre and post-test, all Official Practice Tests, and Official HiSET Final Exams. Email Adult Education at adulted@iwcc.edu for an appointment to test. Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00-4:00pm.
Students who are currently enrolled in a class and have a CASAS Reading score of 10th grade or higher may email Adult Education at adulted@iwcc.edu to set up an appointment to discuss your options.
Persons seeking to meet the Iowa High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) requirements should be aware of companies that claim to offer a High School Equivalency program over the internet or through correspondence courses. Although testing for the HiSET is computer-based, the tests can only be accessed at a recognized Iowa Community College testing site where certified HiSET Proctors will administer the test(s).