Getting Your GED or HSED

STEP 1 - Attend a GED/HSED Pre-Testing Session: This session will take approximately 3 hours and is held at the Downtown Campus located at 211 N Carroll St, Madison, WI 53703. At the session you will take the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE).

STEP 2 - Register for Preparation Courses: At the end of the GED/HSED Pre-Testing Session, you will speak with Madison College staff to discuss your TABE results. Based on your scores they can recommend any classes that you should take to help ensure your success before beginning the official testing process. If classes are not needed, you will proceed to the next step.

STEP 3 - Attend a GED/HSED Test Ready Session: This session will take 3 to 4 hours and is held at the Commercial Avenue Campus located at 2125 Commercial Ave, Madison, WI 53704. Students will be referred to the GED/HSED Test Ready Session once they are prepared to take the official tests.

STEP 4 - Begin Taking the Official GED/HSED Exams: Once you have completed the GED/HSED Test Ready Session, you can begin taking the official GED/HSED exams. You will obtain this schedule at the Commerical Avenue campus at the Test Ready Orientation or you can find them online.

For more detailed information about the process for obtaining your GED or HSED, go to our GED/HSED Information webpage.

Starting in 2014, there will be a new GED® test*. The current version of the GED® test is expiring at the end of 2013 and your scores will expire too if you don't finish and pass the test by then. Finish the test now by registering for an upcoming testing session.

Improve Your English Language Skills

Our English as a Second Language (ESL) classes teach adults who native language is not English, how to read, write and communicate in English. Students work both in structured classroom and lab settings. Instruction includes an array of curriculum utilizing audio, computer, workbook and conversational materials and some off-campus activities such as fieldtrips to museums, the local library and state capitol building.

All ESL classes are non-credit and offered tuition free however some clases may require the purchase of a textbook. ESL classes at Madison College are offered to adults who are permanent residents of Wisconsin, refugees or US citizens. We are unable to provide classes to individuals who hold a temporary, non-immigrant US visa including, but not limited to B, F, J or H.

To get started, you need to attend an ESL Orientation Session. This session can take up to 3 to 4 hours and is held at the Downtown campus located at 211 N Carroll St, Madison, WI 53703. No appointment is necessary.

For additional information, go to our English as a Second Language webpage.