Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question: Who benefits from Adult Education? 

Answer: Any student who wishes to earn a High School Equivalency Certificate (i.e. GED, HiSet), improve basic skills needed for success in college, or take classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) will benefit from Adult Education classes. Specific classes to prepare for various career interests are also available.

Question: How much do Adult Education classes cost?

Answer: All classes are FREE! Adult Education classes are funded by state and federal grants so there is no charge to students.

Question: Will I have to take an assessment (test)?

Answer: Adult Education tests all incoming students to determine their starting level. These tests are only used by our local advisors to place students in the class that will give them the most benefit and meet them at their individual level. Students will be given additional  assessments as their class progresses to check for academic gains.

Question: Is there an age requirement for Adult Ed?

Answer: Students must be at least 16 years of age. Students age 16-17 must provide proof in writing from the last school they attended that states they are no longer enrolled.

Question: What are the classes like?

Answer: Class size is generally small with a student to teacher ratio ranging from 10:1 to ~20:1. Adult Education uses caring and highly qualified teachers.

Question: Is the GED part of the class? Do I have to take the class before I take the GED?

Answer: No. Our classes prepare students to pass the GED test, but they are not required to take it. You may schedule appointments to take the GED by making an account at ged.com. The GED website has practice tests that indicate readiness for passing the GED and for going to college. 

Question: I have been a student before. Do I have to register again?

Answer: Email us at  adulteducation@parkland.edu.

Question: When do classes meet?

Answer:

In Person Classes: Most day classes meet for 3 hours three or four mornings per week. Evening classes typically meet two times each week for 3 hours. The exact days of the week will vary depending on which class students sign up for. 

Online Classes: Online classes maybe available and schedules may vary.

Hybrid: These classes meet for some in-person hours and some online work is assigned as well.

 

Question: Are Adult Education classes for “Credit”?

Answer: Adult Education classes are not for official Parkland College Credit. However, some classes may lead to certificates in specific career fields. Connect with an advisor to learn more about this option. 

Question: Where do classes meet?

Answer: Most classes meet on Parkland College Campus (2400 W. Bradley Avenue, Champaign, IL). 

Other class meetings maybe at the following locations (check with an advisor):

            • llinois Worknet Center (1307 N Mattis Ave, Champaign, IL).
            • Rantoul Business Center (601 S Century Blvd, Rantoul, IL).
            • Online classes meet in the comfort of your own home or library. 

Question: How long does it take to complete this program?

Answer: There is no set amount of time that it takes for everyone to complete our program. How long it takes you will depend on your goal - whether it is passing a High School Equivalency test, completing a college certificate, improving English skills, etc. - and how much you already know coming into the program. After youcomplete placement tests you will meet with an advisor to discuss class options, and at that time your advisor can help you get an idea of how long it may take to complete your goal.

Question: What is a Bridge Class?

Answer: Bridge classes are College Prep classes for students who are interested in learning about specific career areas while they prepare for college entrance exams or high school equivalency tests . The classes use college-level textbooks to help students “cross over” to college-level coursework more successfully.  See the Career Pathways page.