One of the challenges of getting a high school equivalency (HSE) diploma is paying for classes, a study guide, and other study material for the GED test, HiSET exam, or TASC test. Many adult learners can't afford the cost of childcare or transportation to attend classes. Or, students simply can't go to classes on a regular basis because of family and job responsibilities. They're stuck! They can't get a better job without a diploma, and without a better job, how can they find the time and money to study for the test?

• Chicago Free Ged Classes
• Chicago Ged Online Programs
• Chicago Ged Online Program

There are solutions. Although resources for adult learners vary, low-cost or free classes and study materials for self-guided programs are readily available in most communities. There's also help available online for adults working on their HSE diploma.
Here's a quick guide to help you find free GED, HiSET, and TASC resources and support. It's easier to get started and stay focused on your education if you have the learning materials and support you need.

1. GED preparation programs in Illinois are available on campus and online. Read on for information about GED preparation programs and testing policies in Illinois.
2. Ged Tutors in Chicago, IL Find Private & Affordable GED Tutoring in the Chicago Area!

If you live in Chicago, you would register with the Cook County GED Testing Program. The Cook County website lists 15 different locations for taking the test. Depending on the location, the GED test is given between 1-6 times per month, on weekdays and Saturdays.

How to Find Free or Affordable GED Test Prep

• Take a free practice test online to find out what you need to study.
• To get free test materials, try your local library. Your public library should have many choices for a GED, HiSET, or TASC study guide that you can take out on loan. They may also have videos and CD-ROM courses as well. In some communities, the library even sponsors a free prep course. Some libraries may even offer childcare and storytelling classes for children while parents attend classes.
• Most community colleges offer an affordable or free course in basic skills or test prep for the GED, HiSET, or TASC test. The cost of courses will vary from area to area, but generally they're either free or cheap. If classes have fees, check with the community college Financial Aid Office and Student Support offices. You may still be eligible for a free course and support services.
• Your local PBS television station may broadcast a free HSE prep course that you can take. PBS also offers some online courses for basic skills required for the test. They're free. Check local television listings and the PBS website.
• The GED Academy, HiSET Academy, and TASC Academy were created to provide free support and low-cost effective study.

Chicago Free Ged Classes

Resources to Find Additional Local Test Prep

• In many communities, even childcare costs and transportation are available for adult students. Talk to local adult education instructors or test centers. They're probably very familiar with local resources.
• Community-based nonprofits, volunteer centers, family support agencies, or family resource centers are excellent sources for adult students. Contact local nonprofit agencies and volunteer centers. Ask about classes, materials, and other needs related to your educational goal such as childcare, transportation, or adult education classes or grants. Many of these agencies and centers also provide student tutoring and mentoring services.
• Your local public school district or university may have continuing education courses or adult education courses. There's often grant money available to school districts and higher education providers that sponsor programs and classes for adult learners. Give them a call to see if they have the material or services you require for the GED test, HiSET exam, or TASC test. Check with the central office of the public school district, the nearest high school, and with the adult education office or career services office at your local university.
• Don't forget about the local branch of your state unemployment office and local department of social services or family services. Both of these agencies may have funds or resources available through programs related to job training, workforce development, job readiness, or a DSS family support or welfare-to-work program.
• If you're employed, your workplace is an excellent resource for adult education or HSE test prep. Your employer may already sponsor a program or may be willing to sponsor a program or pay costs. Your goal is a good one that will benefit your employer as well as you. Check with your employer or supervisor directly, along with the workforce development, personnel, or human resources officer or department. You may find you need to ask a variety of people in the workplace to find the answer you need. If your workplace doesn't sponsor a program, ask for one. Essential Education provides guidance to students, adult learners, and their employers or supporters to get adult education going in the workplace.

Many resources are available in your community and online to help you earn your diploma. Find the path that works for you! You can pass your test and move forward to a brighter future.

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Illinois State HSE Test Eligibility Requirements

• You must have lived in Illinois for 30 days.
• You must not have graduated from high school and cannot be currently enrolled in a regular high school.
• You also must pass the U.S. and Illinois Constitution Test in order to receive your certificate.

GED Test Eligibility

• You must be at least 18 years old. If you are under 18 years of age, you must meet additional requirements.
• Cost: GED: $30 (per subject), $120 (total); HiSET: $24 (per subject), $120 (total); TASC: $24 (per subject), $120 (total)
• Passing score: 145 (minimum)
• Accommodations: You must apply for disability accommodations through the GED Testing Service page.
• Locate an Illinois GED center and check for any additional rules and requirement before taking the test.

HiSET Test Eligibility

Chicago Ged Online Programs

• You must be at least 16 years old. If you are 16, there’s a different set of rules than if you are 17 years of age; see these additional requirements.
• Cost: $18 (per subtest); $90 (total)
• Passing score: 8 (minimum) on each subtest, combined score of 45 and at least a 2 on the Language Arts - Writing essay
• Accommodations: Find out about disability accommodations and fill out your HiSET Accommodations Request Form on HiSET website.
• Locate an Illinois HiSET center and check for any additional rules and requirement before taking the test.

TASC Test Eligibility

• You must be at least 16 years old. If you are 16, there’s a different set of rules than if you are 17 years of age; see these additional requirements.
• Cost: $18.40 (each subtest); $92 (total)
• Passing score: 500 (minimum) in each subject; at least a 2 out of 8 on the Language Arts - Writing essay
• Accommodations: Find out about disability accommodations and fill out your TASC Accommodations Request Form on TASC Test website.
• Locate an Illinois TASC center and check for any additional rules and requirements before taking the test.

Chicago Ged Online Program

After you pass the exams and the Constitution Test, the Illinois Community College Board will award you with the Illinois High School Equivalency Certificate.