When do GED classes start?

GED classes are offered throughout the year.

Is there a fee for Heartland’s GED classes?

No. The classes are funded by state and federal grants and are offered at no charge to students.

How do I enroll in GED classes? When can I start attending classes?

In general, you may enroll during any scheduled class period. No new enrollments will be accepted in the last few weeks of each semester. Please see the above schedules for enrollment dates.

Enrollment processes are different for each Heartland site. Please consult the GED class schedules or call the appropriate campus for more information.

• Normal: (309) 268-8180
• Lincoln: (217) 735-1731
• Pontiac: (815) 842-6777

During enrollment you will complete paperwork, take a reading placement test and meet with a tutor to discuss your educational and employment goals. You may begin classes immediately once the enrollment process is complete.

How long are the classes? How long will it take me to get my GED?

Once you’re enrolled you may begin attending right away and attend as long as you need to prepare for the test. Classes meet 2-3 times per week, and each class session is 3 hours long. Some students spend just a few months brushing up on things they’ve forgotten or never learned in high school; some students take a year or more to prepare. The length of time you need will depend on how regularly you attend class, and how much work you do while you’re in class. We’re here to help, but it’s up to you to do the work.

How are GED classes structured?

Instruction in Heartland’s GED classes is individualized based on your academic needs and goals. You’ll take a reading test when you enroll in the program. It’s a test that tells us where you need to begin your preparation for the GED. Your studies will include reading, writing, social studies, science, and math. We can also prepare you for the U.S and Illinois Constitution exams, if necessary.

Do I have to attend the entire session of every class? Do I have to attend every session each week?

How quickly you complete the GED preparation program will depend on how often you attend class, and how hard you work while in class. Therefore, full and regular attendance is strongly encouraged. However, many students who are preparing for the GED have other responsibilities that make regular attendance difficult. You should attend class as often as possible, and keep your instructor informed about planned and unexpected absences. If you are required to come to class for any reason (court order, childcare subsidy is dependent on class enrollment), you must attend the full class session in order to receive attendance credit for that day. You won’t be withdrawn from the class for lack of attendance or extended absences. If you need to be absent, you may return at any time.

Do I need to take the Constitution tests?

High school graduates and GED completers in the state of Illinois must pass a U.S. and Illinois Constitution exam before receiving their credential (HS diploma or GED certificate). When you register for the GED exam you’ll have to present proof that you’ve passed the test. Many students take the Constitution exam in middle school or high school. If this is the case, you may call your former school and request a transcript. This will show that you’ve passed it. If you haven’t passed the Constitution test in high school, you can prepare for and take the test in Heartland’s GED class. You’ll receive a certificate after you pass.

I’m registered to take the GED exam, but I don’t have proof that I’ve passed the Constitution. Do I need to enroll in classes to prepare?

If you’re in this situation please contact Jill Blair: 268-8171, jill.blair@heartland.edu.

Do I have to take classes before taking the GED exam?

No, but we highly recommend that you do. There is a $35 testing fee for the GED, but classes are free. We will give you several assessment tests when you enroll that provide information about how much preparation you need to pass all sections. If you’re ready to test immediately, you can register for the test. If you need some time to prepare, the classes are free, you can start attending immediately, and you haven’t paid a $35 testing fee!

It’s important to emphasize that the GED is a LONG and DIFFICULT test. Studies have shown that almost 40% of graduating high school seniors cannot pass. Most individuals who take the GED need at least some preparation in order to pass all sections of the test. It is given in one day-7.5 hours of testing-so you want to be sure you can pass before committing the money, time and energy.

How do I register for the GED exam? How often is it administered? How much does it cost?

The GED exam is given monthly. The Regional Office of Education administers the test. You must register in person for the test, and we recommend that you reserve a seat for the test well in advance. A $35 testing fee must be paid at the time of registration, and registrants must present a picture ID and proof that they’ve passed the US/IL Constitution. For more information call or visit:

Dewitt-Livingston-McLean Regional Office of Education
905 N. Main, Normal, IL 61761
309-888-5120

Can I take other classes at Heartland while preparing for the GED?

Yes, but you won’t qualify for financial aid until you have your GED certificate.

Does Heartland offer childcare for students who are enrolled in GED preparation classes?

Childcare is available on a limited basis at the Child Development Lab and Learning Center (CDLLC) on campus in Normal. Childcare is only available to students enrolled in morning classes. If you are interested in childcare at Heartland you should contact the CDLLC at 268-8210. If Heartland’s CDLLC is unable to accommodate your child or children, the director of the CDLLC will help you identify alternative childcare arrangements.