The Library is partnering with the City Colleges and UIC's Center for Literacy to offer GED/HiSet (Illinois High School equivalency) and ESL (English as a Second Language/English Language Learning) classes at some branches. These classes are free and open to Illinois residents ages 18 and over. Students who are 16 and 17 can take city college classes if they show a high school separation form. Once you're registered for the city college classes, you're able to use any of the college's resources and services for students including the wellness centers, food pantries, and gyms.
The Library is piloting Brainfuse's personalized GED prep program. This is a free, online, self-paced program with live tutors available 24/7. You may register for more information here. This program is full right now, but when spots open, we will share here and online.
Update: Woodson Regional Library will continue to hold Illinois High School Diploma (GED) / high school equivalency prep classes with Olive Harvey College this spring. Woodson's second 8-week GED classes are in session. Registration for this term is closed, but you can apply for future sessions. To apply, please visit the the college or apply online (choose "Olive Harvey" as the location and let the library know you registered). You can take the placement test at these times and dates: https://www.ccc.edu/site/OHTesting/
Update on 4/2/26: Archer Heights Library has ended their partnership with Daley College. We will be looking at other options for language classes or conversation groups at Archer.
Legler is continuing their ESL classes with Malcolm X College.
Back of the Yards offers GED classes in Spanish through UIC's Center for Literacy. Classes take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5-8pm at the library. Please contact the Center for Literacy if you want to enroll. You can join the classes anytime after you register. To learn more about the program, UIC will be at the library on Friday, February 20th from 12-3pm to share information and to help you register.
Little Village is also hosting UIC's GED classes in Spanish. Classes are held from 1-4pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the library. Please contact UIC's Center for Literacy if you want to enroll. You can start classes at anytime. There will be an information session at Little Village on Wednesday, January 29th from 12-3 where you can meet the UIC staff and learn more about the GED program. You can also register and take your placement test.
Be sure to check out the ESL classes and conversation groups offered by nonprofit organizations at other libraries. Literacy Chicago hosts several ESL conversation groups at branches throughout the city where you can practice your everyday English. Albany Park is starting a new group in January. Please register with Literacy Chicago.
If you need some help studying for the GED or high-school equivalency diploma, improving your reading or writing skills, or learning a language, then check out these online resources.
Information about future GED, ESL, and ABE (adult basic education; adult basic literacy like beginning reading and writing) will be posted here. Please contact adultservices@chipublib.org with any questions or if you need help finding a GED or ESL class or reading tutor.