Suggest an update
See something out of date on this page? Suggest an update to this program
Free citywide ABE, GED, and ESOL programs
DYCD Adult Literacy Program by NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD)
Actively recruiting
High School Equivalency (HSE or GED) prep, Improving English skills, Adult reading, writing, and math
No fixed amount of time, Varies
Last updated on Jun 09, 2022
Adults and out-of-school youth age 16+ can take free classes to learn English and prep for HSE/GED exams.
Free ESOL classes are available to New Yorkers who want to learn to speak, read, and write in English. There are also HSE/GED test preparation programs for those who want to earn a high school equivalency diploma.
Classes are free to those who:
- Live in New York City
- Are low-income
- Are 16 or older
- Are not enrolled in school right now
- Do not have a high school diploma, unless it’s a Foreign or IEP Degree
- Cannot, speak, read, or write the English language well enough to participate in education or training programs in English
You’ll also need to take a basic test to find out if you’re eligible.
Next Steps
Find a program near you on discoverDYCD.
- Select “Educational Services” and click “Search”.
- To find a provider near you, search for “Adult Literacy” in the Keyword Search.
- Contact a provider to learn more about their programs and how to apply.