No matter where you are in life — raising children alone, working double shifts, living far from a campus, or returning after years away — these pathways were built with you in mind. Every resource listed here is national in scope, reliable, and designed to be accessible for low-income women.
PATHWAY ONE: EARN YOUR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA
What it is:
A traditional high school diploma earned by completing required coursework. It is the same credential as any high school graduate receives.
Why it matters:
Some employers and colleges look specifically for a diploma. It can also be a deeply personal milestone — finishing what you started, on your own terms.
Where to find programs:
- National External Diploma Program (NEDP)
Offered through local adult education agencies nationwide. Designed for adults who learn best outside a classroom.
Website: https://www.casas.org/nedp/about-NEDP
- U.S. Department of Education — Adult Education and Literacy
Connects you to free adult education programs in every state, including high school diploma programs.
Website: https://octae.ed.gov/about
- Your Local Public Library
Libraries nationwide connect women to free adult education programs, tutoring, and online learning tools. No cost. No judgment. Walk in and ask.
- America’s Literacy Directory
Find adult education classes near you, including diploma programs, by entering your zip code.
Website: https://www.nld.org
- Khan Academy
Free, self-paced learning that can help you build the skills needed to complete your diploma requirements.
Website: khanacademy.org
PATHWAY TWO: EARN YOUR GED
What it is:
The GED — General Educational Development — is a high school equivalency credential recognized by nearly all U.S. employers and colleges. It is earned by passing four subject tests: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies.
Why it matters:
For many women, the GED is the faster, more flexible pathway. Tests can be taken one at a time. Many prep resources are free. And it opens the same doors.
Cost:
Test fees vary by state, typically ranging from $80–$150 total for all four tests. Fee assistance is available in many states for low-income individuals.
Where to find programs and take the test:
- GED Testing Service
The official site to register for the GED, find test centers, and access study materials. Includes a free study app.
Website: ged.com
- GED Free Practice Test
Available directly through ged.com at no cost so you can see where you stand before you commit.
- U.S. Department of Education — Adult Education Programs
Connects you to free GED preparation classes in your state.
Website: https://www.ed.gov/
- Your Local Library
Free GED prep materials, tutoring, and computer access are available at public libraries nationwide.
- Khan Academy
Free subject-by-subject preparation covering all four GED test areas.
Website: khanacademy.org
- Goodwill Community Foundation (GCF) / LearnFree
Free online learning for GED preparation.
Website: www.LearnFree.org
- Literacy Directory
Find free local GED classes by zip code.
Website: nid.org
PATHWAY THREE: THE ACT — YOUR FIRST STEP TOWARD COLLEGE
What it is:
The ACT is a standardized college entrance exam accepted by virtually every college and university in the United States. It covers English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section.
Why it matters:
Many colleges require or recommend ACT scores as part of their admission process. A strong score can also open doors to scholarships and financial aid.
Cost:
The ACT without Writing costs approximately $63. With Writing it is approximately $88.
FEE WAIVERS — YOU MAY NOT HAVE TO PAY
This is important. If you are a low-income student, you may qualify for an ACT fee waiver that covers the full cost of the exam.
Who qualifies:
- Students enrolled in a federal free or reduced-price lunch program
- Students whose family income falls within SNAP or other federal assistance guidelines
- Students in foster care or experiencing homelessness
How to get a fee waiver:
Contact your local high school counselor, adult education program, or community college advisor. Fee waivers are distributed through educational institutions.
FREE ACT PREPARATION RESOURCES
You do not have to pay for test preparation. These resources are completely free:
- ACT Official Free Resources
The ACT organization offers free sample questions and a free test prep tool called ACT Academy.
Website: www.act.org
- Your Public Library
Many libraries offer free ACT prep books, online access to prep programs, and tutoring.
- PrepScholar Free ACT Resources
Free guides, practice questions, and study strategies.
Website: prepscholar.com/act
REGISTERING FOR THE ACT
- Go to act.org
- Create a free account
- Select your test date and location
- Apply for a fee waiver if needed before completing registration
Test centers are located nationwide, including in rural areas. Online testing options are also being expanded.
A NOTE JUST FOR YOU
These resources exist whether you live in a large city or a small rural town, whether you have internet at home or use the library’s computer, whether you are 20 or 55, whether you have children at home or are caring for a family member. There is a pathway here for your life, exactly as it is.
If English is not your first language, many of these programs and resources are also available in Spanish.
