GED Learning Circle Program
Brittany Hause, Program Coordinator
bhause@hplct.org 860-331-9386
If you are already prepared to take the GED test at one of the Library’s test centers, visit our GED Test page.
What is a GED?
- Your GED is equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma.
Why get my GED?
- Increase your yearly income.
- Better your chances of getting hired to higher-paying jobs or earning promotions in your current job.
- Open the door to enrolling in college or career training programs.
How can the GED Learning Circle program help me?
Learning Circles = Small groups learning together
To get your GED, you must pass computer-based tests in 4 core high school subjects: math, science, language arts, and social studies.
The Library’s GED Learning Circle program offers study support and practical guidance as you prepare for these tests. Program participants advance toward completion of the GED exam through in-person small group Learning Circles facilitated by certified instructors as well as through self-paced, computer-based instruction. Academic study support in all GED subjects and career navigation consultation is provided.
While participants are connected with many resources for at-home study, they are expected to attend at least one in-person Learning Circle (small group study session) and/or math class a week.
When are the Learning Circles?
Instructors are available for in-person programming each week at the times below. Pick AT LEAST one session that works for you!
LEARNING CIRCLES (ALL SUBJECTS)
- Tuesdays: 4:00 – 5:30 PM and 5:30 – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 – 11:30 AM and 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 – 11:30 AM and 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
MATH CLASSES
- Monday: 5:00-7:00 PM (offered in collaboration with Learn For Life, Inc.)
- Wednesday: 5:00-7:00 PM (offered in collaboration with Learn For Life, Inc.)
On enrollment in the program, you agree to attend at least one Learning Circle or math class session a week in person at the Downtown Library. If possible, however, you are encouraged to attend two or more sessions a week!
What are the criteria for enrolling?
- Age 18 or older
- Connecticut resident
- Not currently enrolled in high school
- Read and do math at U.S. middle school level or above. (We will assess your skill level at no cost to you.)
- Commit to attending at least one Learning Circle session or class per week and to completing 4 hours of self-study per week (on average)
How do I enroll?
- The first step to enrollment in GED prep in Hartford is to placement test in math and reading. Based on your placement assessment results, you’ll be enrolled in the program that’s right for you.
- Step 1: Complete the form below answering questions about yourself and your goals.
- Step 2: Attend a placement testing session at the Downtown Library (500 Main Street, Hartford). Placement testing is provided every Saturday at 2:00 pm in the Business Resource Center room on the main floor of the Downtown Library.
- Step 3: Discuss your placement assessment results, personal calendar, and other considerations with the GED prep program facilitator to create the study plan that best meets your current needs.
When placement testing at the Downtown Library, be sure to arrive promptly at 2:00 pm on Saturday! Late arrivals may be required to test at another opportunity.
How long does the GED Learning Circle Program take?
Depending on your initial skills assessment results and time dedicated to study, national averages indicate you can finish your GED in one year or less. Completion time can be less for highly prepared and dedicated students.
When can I take the official GED test?
In Connecticut, each of the four GED subject tests must be taken in an official test center. Registration to schedule GED testing appointments with a certified test center becomes possible only after a preparer obtains at least one “Likely to Pass” result in a “GED Ready” practice test taken through their personal GED.com account.
You can review Connecticut’s eligibility guidelines and statewide policies and procedures for GED testing in more detail on GED.com:
Other questions? We’re here to help!
Call or text: (860) 331-9386
Email: ged@hplct.org
Completing the application form below will let the program facilitator, Brittany Hause, know you are interested in joining GED prep at the Library.
You can also reach Brittany by texting or calling (860) 331-9386.
Application for GED Learning Circles
Two other ways to get your high school diploma
The General Education Diploma (GED) is one of three options towards attaining a high school diploma in Connecticut.
The other two options include:
- Adult High School Credit Diploma (AHSCD): Credits toward a local diploma are obtained through a prescribed plan that requires a minimum of 20 credits in academic and elective areas. Credits for work or military experience, independent study projects and online courses are additional ways to obtain credit.
- National External Diploma Program (NEDP): This program is designed for adults who have gained skills through life experiences and demonstrated competence in a particular job, talent or academic area. The NEDP is an online portfolio assessment program that offers no classroom instruction. An adult who successfully completes the portfolio assessment, as required, is awarded a high school diploma.