Adult Education / HiSET / ESL

Adult Basic Education

ABE offers students the opportunity to develop basic skills and to work toward their High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) through HiSET instruction, and/or to acquire English language skills that enable them to increase independence, improve employability, and/or prepare for continuing education.

High School Equivalency Diploma

Consider Iowa Western for any type of learning you’re interested in, either for personal interest, career advancement, or certifications, high school diploma, or degrees. Our adult education services include:

  • High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED)
  • Distance Education
  • Review of reading, writing, social studies, science and math skills
  • And more!

English Language Learners

Iowa Western Community College offers classes to help students develop stronger listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English. By improving English Language skills, students improve their chances of success in future education and employment.

Career Pathways

Our HiSET Navigator works to build relationships by proactively communicating with students, guiding them in decision making, holding them accountable, connecting them to community resources and appropriate college advisors, and assisting them with career planning.

Distance Education

Iowa Western Community College offers an online option for students to study and prepare for their HiSET final exams and HSED. CASAS pre-test reading and math scores must fall within the eligibility range to qualify for this program.

Additional Resources


Adult Education / HiSET / ESL

Consider Iowa Western for any type of learning you’re interested in, either for personal interest or career advancement. Our adult education services include:

  • HiSET preparation,
  • career advising,
  • review of reading, writing, and math skills,
  • HiSET Academy,
  • specific skills training such as keyboarding or using measurements, and
  • survival English for English as a Second Language (ESL) students.

During orientation, students are assessed in reading and math.  After discussion and consultation, students are then assigned to a class that best meets their needs. Iowa Western serves a seven-county area providing Adult Education services at the Iowa Western campus in Council Bluffs, and the Iowa Western Centers in Atlantic, Clarinda, Harlan, and Shenandoah. A $25 registration fee is due at the time of registration and is valid through June 30.

Redefine your success with a high school equivalency diploma.

Iowa Western offers preparation courses and exam opportunities for adults to take the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), formerly known as the GED.  The High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) is equivalent to a high school diploma. Our staff will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance and support. Choose a location and class schedule that fits your needs.

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