Learn English, Earn the GED, or Prep for College and Career

Free Classes for Students Who Are Ready for a Positive Change

The GED® & Pre-College Education program is a completely FREE program for students and community members who are ready to make a positive change in their lives! We provide information, practice skills, and resources to help participants earn their GED® credential, improve their English language abilities, and brush up on reading, writing, and math skills.

We prepare students for success in their families and communities, the workforce, and future education programs. Classes are available throughout Dekalb, Jackson and Marshall Counties.  Options include day, evening, and online classes.

To enroll, new students must attend an orientation and take a placement exam which serves as a guide to help instructor develop individual programs of study for students. Click below for more information about our class sites and schedules and to schedule an appointment for orientation.  Begin Your Future Here! 

GED® & Pre-College Education Information

Get started now with our free, flexible classes that allow you both one on one support as well as online content to study for the GED®.  We have classes in Jackson, Dekalb and Marshall Counties.  Our friendly and knowledgeable teachers are ready to help you get started now!  Choose the link at the top of the page to sign up for classes. 

Free Exams CVCC Adult Ed Students are eligible for free GED® Ready Practice Exams as well as free GED® Exams. 

Free College Course Students who earn their GED® through the CVCC Adult Ed Program are eligible for a free college course at any Community College in the State of Alabama.

High School Diploma Option Program Students who missed out on receiving their high school diploma because of the graduation exam or because they did not gain enough credits may be eligible for this program. We work with your local high school for you to obtain the requirements that you need to potentially earn your high school diploma.

The Nontraditional High School Diploma Option (HSDO) is for residents ages 19 and older. There are two options. Option 1 is for residents who attended an Alabama public high school, earned enough credits to graduate, but did not pass the high school graduation exam. Option 2 is for residents who earned 10 or more credits from an Alabama public high school but need additional credits for graduation.

If you would like to know more about getting your GED® or the High School Diploma Option, click the link in the middle of the page above.  Enter your contact information and one of our friendly staff members will contact you for more information on how to enroll and get started.

DeKalb County Class Locations and Schedule

CVCC Workforce Training Center – Mornings
3413 S. Seale Road, Phenix City
Monday & Tuesday 9 am – 12 pm
Tuesday – Thursday 8 am – 12 pm

CVCC Workforce Training Center – Evenings
3413 S. Seale Road, Phenix City
Monday & Wednesday 5 pm – 8 pm
Tuesday & Thursday 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Children & Family Connection
901 13th Street, Phenix City
Monday & Wednesday 9 am – 12 pm

Phenix City-Russell Library
1501 17th Ave, Phenix City
Tuesday & Thursday 2 pm – 5 pm

Ladonia Elementary School
9 Woodland Drive, Phenix City
Tuesday & Wednesday 5 pm – 8 pm

Philadelphia Baptist Church
7807 Lee County 246, Smiths Station
Tuesday & Thursday 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Virtual Class
Monday – Wednesday 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

People who do not speak English as their first language often start by going to an ESL class. ESL means English as a Second Language. In these classes, we not only teach English but also include lessons on civics (how the government operates).

For beginners, the focus is on learning how to talk in everyday situations and understanding basic English. As students progress, they start learning more advanced concepts and reading and writing in English.  After ESL, many students go on to join classes for reading or preparing for the GED exam.

Our friendly and experienced teachers are ready to help you get started now! Choose the link at the top of the page to sign up for ESL Class

English Language Learning
3414 S. Seale Road, Phenix City
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 5 pm – 8 pm

 CVCC Adult Ed offers three types of College Prep

  • College Brush Up- This course is designed for students who have been out of school for a while and are entering college. The course will help to improve academic skills as well as learn some new ones.
  • College Placement Test Prep – Many colleges require placement tests for incoming students. Placement tests assess your reading, writing and math skills. College placement test results determine your first-year English and math classes. The main benefit to this course is that you can potentially score higher on your placement test and skip developmental classes. This means less money and less time for you to complete your course of study. 
  • ACT Test Prep- ACT preparation introduces students to the Math, Science, English, Essay and Reading sections of the ACT test and the amount of time they have for each section. During ACT prep, student complete practice tests and sections to become familiar with the types and phrasing of ACT questions so there aren’t any surprises during the actual test. ACT prep teaches students proven strategies that help them improve their standardized test understanding and performance.

If you are interested in College Prep Courses, please choose “Prep for College or Career” at the top of the page, and enter your information.  One of our friendly staff members will contact you with information on how to enroll in these courses.

Alabama Career Essentials (ACE) is a FREE training course designed by the Alabama Community College System to provide Alabamians with relevant, cutting-edge, and industry-driven employability skills training to better prepare individuals for the Alabama workforce. The main goal of the new ACE course is to ensure current and future workers are equipped with the skills necessary to enter the 21st-century Alabama workforce.

Employers trust our colleges’ credentials. These are the credentials ACE participants gain after completing the program:

  • ACT’s National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
  • Alabama Certified Employee Certificate (ACE)
  • One free college course (up to 4 credit hours)
  • Articulated credit for WKO 106 (3 credits) when enrolling in one of the state community colleges.

In addition to credentials, participants gain support, build confidence, improve their opportunities, and get access to ongoing skill upgrades and lifelong learning.

MAPS (Mobilizing Alabama Pathways) MAPS are short courses to prepare individuals for industry-specific information.  The curriculum is designed to be self-paced and skills specific.  Students will gain foundation and competencies with a credential of value for entry-level work on the “first rung” of a career pathway. At the completion of the course, a student will earn a MAP Certification for the industry specific course they chose. Students can choose from the following MAP Courses:

  • Architecture & Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Hospitality and Tourism
  • Information Technology
  • Manufacturing
  • Transportation and Logistics

If you are interested in learning more about ACE and MAPS, please choose “Prep for College or Career at the top of the page and enter your information.” One of our friendly staff members will contact you with instructions to get started on these Career Paths!


Dr. Darren Dean
– Director



Shannon Feagins
– Instructional Coordinator



Robin Rudd
– Program Secretary



Kelsey Jones
– Career Coach



Alexius Beckhom
– Instructor



Stephen Campbell
– ELL Instructor



Tina Clark
– Instructor



Dr. Jake Golden
– Instructor



Jane Hughes
– Instructor



Dr. Robin McCoy
– Instructor



Jalin Murphy
– Instructor



Brenda O’Neal
– Instructor



Sonya Roberts
– Instructor



Star Wallace
– Instructor

Here in CVCC Alabama we’re excited to offer you a GED® program and a fighting chance at a good job with good wages. Learn more below or sign up today at www.GED.com.

Now, you have more than just a test. You’ll have access to MyGED™ your online portal to sign up, study, schedule, check scores, and learn about jobs and college.

The GED® program gives you everything you need for success, and MyGED™ will help get you there. With MyGED, you receive unprecedented support before and after you test. Conveniently register and schedule 24/7. Pay as you go and test on what you want, when you want. Plus, find prep tools to help you prepare for test day and resources to help you move forward to what’s next.

GED® test centers are located throughout Alabama, with two centers in our area at CVCC and Snead Colleges. Prospective GED® examinees can phone CVCC Alabama Community College (near Rainsville) at 334-214-4849 or Snead State Community College (in Boaz) at 334-214-4849 for scheduling/testing information. Applicants must register at www.GED.com and show appropriate identification on the day of the test.

MyGED™ was built with you in mind. Register today. Get started at www.GED.com.

What is MyGED™?

MyGED™ is your start-to-finish tool for the new GED® program. Flexible, convenient and the support you need before and after the GED® test. Built with you in mind, MyGED™ helps you take control of your life and your future. Register today to test on a day and time that is convenient for you. Get started now at www.GED.com.

What’s the GED® test like?

The GED® test has been updated to make sure it measures what graduating high school seniors know and what colleges and employers will expect of you.

-Four (4) parts:

  • Science (90 minutes)
  • Social Studies (70 minutes)
  • Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes including a 10-minute break)
  • Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes)

-Offered on the computer only

-English and Spanish versions available

Where can I study?

Contact the CVCC Alabama Adult Education Program at 334-214-4849 to get more information about GED classes near you! We offer FREE classes all across Russell and Lee Counties.. Work at your own pace with the assistance of a highly-qualified instructor to reach your goal of passing the GED. Materials (i.e. books, paper, practice tests, computer programs) are all free of cost to students who attend class.

How do I register?

Registration is simple. Simply sign up for MyGED™ at www.GED.com and you will get information about local policies, how to request modified testing conditions (accommodations), or you’ll be able to schedule right then.

When can I schedule?

Scheduling is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week with MyGED™ at www.GED.com. Log in and click on “Schedule Test” on the top. Once you complete the scheduling questions you’ll be directed to choose your language, subject, and the day and time that works best for you to test. You can also schedule one test at a time to make sure you feel prepared every time.

What is the passing score?

On the new GED® test you need to earn at least 145 points on each subject to pass. To find out if you’re likely to pass, take the official GED® practice test at one of our adult education class sites.

Is there a fee to take the test?

You can pay as you go with the GED® test. This means you can pay for each subject individually or when you are ready to test. In Alabama, the fee per subject is $36, or $144 for all four tests.  If you are part of the CVCC Adult Ed program, your tests and practice tests are free.

How will I receive my transcripts and diploma?

You will receive an email with a link and password to access your electronic transcript and diploma. You can download these up to seven (7) times and can print off as many as you need. You can also select an option to have your diploma mailed to you. How to request a printed diploma. However, you have a two-month window of time to access these documents. After that time is up, you will need to follow the steps below.

How can I access my transcripts if I did not test recently?

Create an account in order to pay to receive your electronic transcript. The cost is $15 and you will receive your electronic transcript by email. Download, save, and print this transcript for current and later use.

* GED® and GED Testing Service® are registered trademarks of the American Council on Education (ACE). They may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of ACE or GED Testing Service. The GED® and GED Testing Service® brands are administered by GED Testing Service LLC under license from the American Council on Education.

Adult Education Free Class(es)

Requirements:

  • GED recipient or
  • Non-traditional High School Diploma recipient
  • Alabama Career Essentials (ACE) completion certificate recipient

For information on how to receive your financial aid, please contact Financial Aid at 334-291-4914 or email financial.aid@cv.edu.

CVCC Adult Ed Scholarship

Students who are selected by their instructor as exemplary Adult Ed students will be invited to apply for a CVCC scholarship. Those awarded will receive a two-year scholarship which includes full tuition and fees, provided the student meets the following requirements:

  • The student may not be a currently enrolled or returning CVCC student.
  • The student must complete the FAFSA, CVCC General Admissions Application, and GED Scholarship Application.
  • The student must have successfully completed their GED at CVCC during the current academic year.

Student Eligibility:

  • The student must enroll in Fall or Spring classes. This is a one-year renewable scholarship for general fees and tuition.
  • The student must register for at least 12 credit hours.
  • The student must be registered only for courses required to complete his/her degree.
  • Students must agree to enroll and participate in the SENSE Program, a Title III funded academic support program.
  • The scholarship does not cover the costs of textbooks or supplies, or program fees.

If you would like more information, please click on the following link https://forms.office.com/r/NqCkPQw2gQ

 

Pete Turnham Scholarship Application

Alabama Association for Public and Continuing Adult Education will be awarding one scholarship to a GED recipient for use at a college of their choice. Due on Monday, April 30, 2025. *NOTE application is paper based and a photo of student must be summited with scholarship application. Please email at xxx@cv.edu for application to Pete Turham Scholarship.

Dr.Naomi Scales HSDO Scholarship

Alabama Association for Public Continuing will be choosing one HSDO graduate as a recipient to their scholarship (to a college of the students choice). ALAPCAE dedicated its new High School Diploma Option (HSDO) scholarship in honor of Dr.Naomi Scales who has been working with Adult Education administration for over 56 years, her dedication to student success is unquestioned and her legacy will continue in perpetuity through the funding of this honorary scholarship. Due Monday April 30,2025. *Note: Application is paper based and photo of student must be summited with scholarship application. Please email at xxx@cv.edu for application to Pete Turham Scholarship.

CVCC Adult Ed Graduation

Each May we enjoy celebrating our adult education students’ progress with a graduation ceremony. Invitations are mailed out approximately four to six weeks prior to the graduation date. Anyone who has passed the GED or received a Non-Traditional High School Diploma and has not attended a previous graduation is eligible to attend, but pre-registration is required. The Adult Education Graduation will be held at the IPAC Auditorium on the CVCC campus, located at 2602 College Drive, Phenix City, Alabama 36869. Graduates should arrive at 5:00 p.m. for instructions, cap & gown, photos, etc.

Graduates may pay for the cost of their gown rental and keepsake cap & tassel using cash or money order. No personal checks will be accepted. Please wear black shoes and clothing. Men should wear a white shirt with a tie. Graduation pictures will be taken before and during the ceremony. This year’s ceremony will be on May 15, 2025 @ 6:00 p.m. E.S.T. 

Please contact Robin Rudd at 334-214-4849 or email to robin.rudd@cv.edu for more information or if you plan to participate in the ceremony.

Chattahoochee Valley Adult Education Program

Complete Online Form To Be Contacted About Classes

Adult Education provides academic instruction from very basic skills up to the college level.

Areas of instruction include:

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Speaking English
  • Math
  • Social Studies
  • Science
  • Digital Literacy
  • Career Preparation
  • College Preparation
  • GED® Preparation
  • Test Preparation (ACT, Accuplacer, etc.)
  • Chattahoochee Valley Career Essentials (CVCC)

Instruction is grouped into four general areas: Basic Academic Improvement, Adult Reading, English as a Second Language (ESL) and Chattahoochee Valley Career Essentials (CVCC). Classes are Free and open to anyone 16 years of age or older and not enrolled in school. Students learn at their own pace in an instructional program designed with their specific goals in mind. Enrollees may be interested in pursuing the GED® or Non-Traditional High School Diploma credential, preparing for the Accuplacer college placement test or ACT test, enrolling in a technical program through Career Pathways, learning how to speak English, building their job skills and certifications with ACE, or simply learning the skills to help their children with homework. The CVCC Adult Education Program offers free adult education classes at various locations in Russell and Lee counties.

The CVCC Adult Education Program also offers ACE Participants a 8-week program where anyone may enroll and begin coursework at any time. Graduates of this program will receive a certificate verifying that they have completed rigorous training and experimental learning activities that prepare them to excel in the workforce. ACE benefits students by providing entry-level employability skills and the enhancement of current skills in order to reach promotion or advancement in their current workplace.

Why Is Adult Education Important?

  • It contributes to a better educated, more productive workforce.
  • It qualifies adults for better jobs and increases their earning potential.
  • It enables some adults to become independent of government assistance programs.
  • It contributes to better-informed citizens who are more active in government and community affairs.
  • It helps parents to set good educational examples for their children. Statistics have shown that children of parents with higher education are more likely to complete their education.
  • It helps individuals become qualified for civil service, college entrance, military service and technical training.
  • It contributes to self-satisfaction and provides a second chance for academic improvement.
 
 
 
 

* GED® and GED Testing Service® are registered trademarks of the American Council on Education (ACE). They may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of ACE or GED Testing Service. The GED® and GED Testing Service® brands are administered by GED Testing Service LLC under license from the American Council on Education.

 

The CVCC Testing Center is located in Brassell Hall Room 205. Parking is available in the student parking lot next to Brassell Hall. The Testing Center is easily accessible by means of an elevator or stairs for test candidates and visitors.

The CVCC Testing Center supports the institution’s mission by providing comprehensive testing services for CVCC students, faculty, local businesses and industries, the Chattahoochee Valley community, and the surrounding areas. The CVCC Testing Center is committed to upholding professional testing standards and practices by creating an optimal, quiet, professional, and stress-free testing environment. Additionally, the CVCC Testing Center supports student success and retention by:

  • Offering computer-based and/or paper-pencil testing services
  • Facilitating the testing needs of on-campus and distance learning students
  • Administering appropriate assessments to determine course placement
  • Providing excellent customer service by being supportive, courteous, friendly, and informative.

CVCC is a member of the National College Testing Association (NCTA) and subscribes to the NCTA Professional Standards and Guidelines for Post-secondary Test Centers.

TIPS FOR EASY TESTING

  • Dress comfortably
  • Leave items that you don’t need at home or in your car
  • Be prepared to store any personal items in locked storage
  • Turn off cell phones prior to storage
  • Relax and don’t stress
 

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING

  • Identification as specified during online registration
  • A GED test requires one (1) form of government issued identification.  Other tests may have different ID requirements.  Please refer to your communications with Pearson Vue for your test ID requirements.
  • Please make sure name on ID matches registration EXACTLY!
  • Note boards for writing, calculators and pens will be provided by the test administrator if allowed by your specific test.  
 

Latoya Stroud,
Chief GED Examiner and Testing Lab Coord. 

Latoya Stroud, GED® Chief Examiner and Certified Pearson VUE Test Administrator is available to answer any questions you may have about testing in the Adult Education Learning Lab.

Phone:
334-291-4941

Email:
latoya.stroud@cv.edu