Adult Education

Adult Education offers High School Equivalency (GED), English as a Second Language, and Academic English Language Programs for those seeking to enhance their careers and transition into college courses.

We understand that life can get busy, so Adult Education provides flexible class options in the morning and evening. Schedules vary by program, and many classes are available online, on campus or in hybrid format. 

Application Intake Forms

Enrollment Process Overview

How to Get Started

  1. Fill Out the Intake Form – Complete the online intake form to begin your enrollment process.
  2. Take the Placement Test – After submitting your form, you’ll be prompted to schedule an on-campus placement test. If you don’t get the prompt, just give us a call and we’ll help you schedule your test by phone.
  3. Attend Orientation – After testing, you’ll be signed up for a mandatory orientation. Orientation will help you get ready for classes and learn what to expect in your program.

Placement Testing Locations

Normal Campus (GED and FESL placement testing)  
Lincoln Campus (GED placement testing)  
Pontiac Campus (GED placement testing)  

High School Equivalency (GED)

Whether you want to build Adult Basic Education skills or need a refresher on the skills required to pass your High School Equivalency (GED), we're here to help you reach your goals.

Learn more about High School Equivalency

English Language Classes (FESL and AELP)

Whether you want to learn basic English or take advanced courses that prepare you for academic work, this program is a great starting point.

Learn more about English Language Programs

Additional Support

Free In-person or Online Tech Coaching

Do you need help accessing your classes, setting up your password or submitting class assignments? Our program staff is available to assist you with your technology needs.  Contact our Program Assistant of Technology to get the help you need for your classes.

Blanca Acevedo

309-220-8653 (text)

309-268-8172 (call)

Blanca.Acevedo@heartland.edu

Living Support

*Special Support or questions about Support Services, contact our Coordinator of Student Support Angela Whitehead at (309) 268-8082.

Navigators

Our incredible navigators are here to help you with your onboarding process, checking your attendance and exploring career opportunities. Once you register for classes, they will be in touch with you!

Information for New Students 

How long does it take to complete the program?  

GED and FESL classes allow students to move at their own pace. Students are tested after approximately 40 hours of instruction to determine if they are ready to advance to the next level. The AELP program is a two-year program divided into four levels. Students can test into any level that matches their skills, and once placed, they will complete the remaining levels of the program. 

How much does the program cost?

In most cases, classes are free for students to take. 

What are the course options (time/day, modality, location)?

Most classes are offered in the morning and evening.  GED classes are available in a hybrid format (in-person on Tuesday and Thursday, online on Wednesday) or fully online.  FESL and AELP classes can be taken in-person or online. Class sections vary by level and location, so not all classes are offered in every format.

How do I register for classes?

To register for our classes, select your program and fill out the online enrollment form. 
English as Second Language 
High School Equivalency (HSE) / GED
AELP   

How do I register for the GED test?

High School Equivalency (HSE) exams are administered at Heartland Community College through Pearson VUE Testing. These exams are offered at all three HCC locations: Normal, Lincoln and Pontiac. To schedule a test, or learn more about the GED exam, visit GED.com. You must be 17 years of age to take the GED test.

Do I need classes before taking the GED?

No, you do not have to take classes before the GED test. You can sign up directly at GED.com to schedule your exam.

However, our GED preparation classes can give you a much better chance of success. They are designed to strengthen your skills, boost your confidence, and help you feel fully prepared to pass the test and reach your goals.

Information for Current Students

How do I change my password?

To change your password, go to Manage My Password and follow the instructions on the website.

Who do I contact if I have questions about enrolling in Adult Ed classes?

If you have questions about enrolling in classes or scheduling a pre-test, contact Coordinator of Adult Education Enrollment at 309-268-8258.

Who do I talk to if I need to change my class?

If you need to change your class, contact Coordinator of Adult Education Enrollment at 309-268-8258. 

Where do I get my Student ID?

You can get your Students ID at HCC Library in the Student Commons Building.

Are there other locations for classes in Bloomington/Normal besides the main campus?

In addition to offering classes on HCC main campus in Normal, we offer ESL classes at Irving Elementary school and YWCA locations, as well as GED classes at the Junction in Bloomington.

Special Opportunities

Complete and Connect

Complete and Connect is a selective, fast-track GED program designed for students ages 16 to 24 who demonstrate high placement test scores.

The program operates in partnership with Career Link and the Western Avenue Community Center, nonprofit organizations that help students access academic and employment opportunities through individualized services and mentorship.

Heartland Community College provides focused classroom instruction to help participants earn their State of Illinois High School Diploma within a single semester.

Level Up

Level Up is a program for our upper-level HSE and AELP students, giving you the opportunity to take credit classes while completing your program.

Choose from pathways like Digital Media, Business Technology, Healthcare, IT, Industrial Technology, and other short-term, in-demand certificates to jumpstart your education or career 

Meet the Staff

Placeholder

Khrystyna Sanborn

Dean, Adult Education

Placeholder

Heather Huckstadt-Gonzalez

Associate Dean, Adult Education

Placeholder

Angela Whitehead

Associate Director, Adult Education (Student Support and Transistions)

Placeholder

Rachael Stanford

Associate Director, Adult Education (Workplace Readiness)

Placeholder

Evelyn Mbumbu

Program Assistant, Adult Education

Placeholder

Blanca Acevedo

Program Assistant, Adult Education

Placeholder

Khrystyna Sanborn

Dean, Adult Education

Contact Us

Bloomington/Normal Campus

Student Commons Building, 1000

1500 W. Raab Road

Normal, IL 61761

Phone: 309-268-8180

Email: adult.education@heartland.edu

Heartland Lincoln Center

2201 Woodlawn Road

Lincoln, IL 62656

Phone: 217-735-1731

Email: Lincoln.Center@heartland.edu

Heartland Pontiac Center

211 E. Madison Street

Pontiac, IL 61764

Phone: 309-268-8960

Email: Pontiac.Center@heartland.edu