The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) recently announced that eligible Georgians can now earn their high school equivalency (HSE) diploma for free. Last year, the Georgia General Assembly passed, and Governor Brian P. Kemp signed into law, a bill establishing the HOPE High School Equivalency Examination Grant Program. Eligible Georgians will receive an award up to $200 to cover exam fees for the GED exam.adult ed students working

“We are grateful to be able to provide residents in our service areas the gift of greater access when it comes to employment and educational opportunities through this new life-changing initiative,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Julie Post.

There are just over 1 million adults ages 18 and older in Georgia without a high school diploma or equivalency. For some test-takers, this grant will remove the last barrier they face before earning their HSE diploma. The HOPE HSE Examination Grant is fully funded by the Georgia Lottery for Education and is available for the GED exam.

West Georgia Technical College is among the state schools that help adult learners prepare for the exam.

“The Adult Education department at WGTC offers free HSE classes with flexible class times on all our campuses,” said Rebecca Wheeler, Dean of Adult Education at WGTC. “We have wonderful, knowledgeable, and supportive teachers that are ready to help prepare individuals for the exam.”

For an individual to be eligible to receive a HOPE HSE Examination Grant, they must meet general HOPE requirements and TCSG’s HSE test readiness standards. Georgians can apply once per subject area exam. Grant funds are subject to annual state appropriation and availability of funds.

To learn more, visit www.HSEtest4Free.com.