20 Best G.E.D Programs In Mcallen, TX (2023 Updated)

Earning a G.E.D. can open up doors to higher education and better job opportunities. For those without a high school diploma in McAllen, Texas and surrounding areas, there are quality G.E.D. programs available to help adults prepare for the G.E.D. exams and earn a high school equivalency credential. Choosing the right program that meets an individual‘s needs and learning style is key to successfully preparing for and passing the G.E.D. tests. Here is a comprehensive list of the top 20 G.E.D. preparation programs in the McAllen region based on quality of instruction, flexible scheduling, affordability and other helpful services aimed at assisting adult learners reach their goals.

1. South Texas College – Multiple Campus Locations

With a robust selection of academic programs and support services for a diverse student population, South Texas College offers accessible and affordable G.E.D. preparation courses at multiple campus locations in McAllen, Weslaco, Rio Grande City and Starr County. Teachers provide engaging instruction tailored to adult learners. Courses are available in flexible daytime, evening and weekend hours. The college also has a G.E.D. Testing Center on its Pecan Campus. For individuals needing additional academic support, the Advanced Technology Center provides free tutoring to currently enrolled students. Financial assistance is available for qualifying students.

2. Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD Adult Education

Through PSJA ISD Adult Education programs, the school district offers tuition-free G.E.D. test preparation classes for adults at least 17 years old and officially withdrawn from high school. Convenient morning and evening schedules allow students to study at times that accommodate work and family responsibilities. Course materials and practice tests prepare students for all sections of the G.E.D. exam. Certified teachers provide academic support based on individual student needs. Classes are held at four PSJA ISD locations in Alamo, Donna, Pharr and San Juan. Students who meet income guidelines may also qualify for child care assistance while attending classes.

3. The Salvation Army – McAllen Corps Community Center

The Salvation Army McAllen Corps Community Center offers a G.E.D. program managed by dedicated staff and volunteers to prepare students 18 years and older to successfully earn a high school equivalency diploma. Classes include one-on-one tutoring, small group instruction, practice tests and open lab sessions for self-guided exam preparation using computer-based learning modules. Schedules are flexible with morning, afternoon and evening sessions available to accommodate individual student schedules. While there is no tuition for classes, students are responsible for paying testing fees. Donations are welcome to help offset program expenses.

4. South Texas College – Libraries on Pecan and Nursing/Allied Health Campuses

For self-motivated adult learners seeking a flexible option for G.E.D. test preparation, South Texas College Libraries have resources at two locations to help individuals study independently for the G.E.D. exam. The Pecan Campus Library and Nursing and Allied Health Library provide free access to G.E.D. subject textbooks, practice tests, instructional DVDs and a collection of teacher resource materials. With a current college ID number, students can also utilize library computers, printers, scanners and other academic resources to support exam preparation needs. Professional librarians offer research assistance and technology guidance.

5. McAllen Careers Institute

Formerly known as Texas Careers, the McAllen Careers Institute provides experienced instructors guiding students through self-paced preparation for the G.E.D. exams in an adult education environment focused on employability skills and career development. Course schedules are flexible with day and night classes available to fit student work schedules. Comprehensive offerings help develop core academic competencies for earning a high school equivalency credential while also gaining marketable job abilities, resume writing aptitude, interview tactics and more. Tuition assistance programs may be available for qualifying students based on eligibility guidelines.

6. UT Rio Grande Valley Workforce Training and Continuing Education

Through the office of Workforce Training and Continuing Education, UT Rio Grande Valley offers several options for adults to enroll in G.E.D. preparation classes. Instructor-led courses held evenings and weekends on campus provide guided lessons to build math, science, social studies and reasoning skills needed to pass the G.E.D. exams. The program also gives students access to online test prep resources for self-paced study. Tuition assistance is available based on financial need. Classes are open to adults ages 18 and up regardless of prior educational background.

7. Literacy Volunteers of South Texas

As a regional leader in adult education initiatives, Literacy Volunteers of South Texas delivers community G.E.D. preparation programs tailored to the requirements of the Pearson VUE high school equivalency exam. Through the organization‘s learning centers and community partnerships, tutors work one-on-one or in small groups with students to offer free customized instruction that builds core skills for successfully earning a high school credential. Programs welcome adults ages 17 and older. With a volunteer base exceeding 300, the nonprofit has resources to assist more than 1,000 students annually in pursuing academic goals and improving employment outlooks.

8. La Joya ISD Oscar Garcia Community Center

Managed by the La Joya Independent School District, the Oscar Garcia Community Center facilitates Adult Basic Education and G.E.D.® classes offered by credentialed teachers. Daytime and evening schedules provide flexibility to serve more students. Instructors develop individualized learning plans leveraging computer programs, small group lessons and practice tests tailored to each learner’s needs. Academic advisers also guide students in transition planning to pursue additional education or expanded job opportunities after earning a high school equivalency diploma. There is no tuition for attending classes.

9. Weslaco Independent School District David Shields Central Library

Located adjacent to the Weslaco High School campus, the David Shields Central Library operated by Weslaco ISD offers library services and resources to support community members studying independently in preparation for G.E.D. exams. Adult patrons can access the library’s collection of high school equivalency test guides as well as dictionaries, subject-specific textbooks, instructional media and online databases useful when creating a self-directed learning curriculum aligned with Pearson VUE G.E.D. test requirements. Professional librarians provide assistance locating reference materials and using computers available on-site. Library computers also have basic skills software installed with lessons, quizzes and practice tests for key subject areas covered on the G.E.D. exams.

10. San Benito Adult Learning Center

San Benito CISD operates the San Benito Adult Learning Center providing customized instruction and flexible scheduling for adults preparing for the state G.E.D. exams. Certified teachers work one-on-one or in small groups with students to offer both personalized and computer-based learning modules tailored to the abilities and availability of individual learners. While attending classes at no cost, students access curriculum covering all topics evaluated on the high school equivalency tests. Staff advisors also prepare students for next steps in continuing education or pursuing career pathways once they successfully complete the program and earn GED credentials.

11. Proyecto Azteca

With locations in several Rio Grande Valley communities, Proyecto Azteca provides quality educational programs for children, teens and adults delivered by highly trained teachers and staff. The organization’s Paso a Paso project focuses on adult education for individuals progressing toward a GED or high school diploma. Ongoing sessions year-round allow new students to enroll at multiple start dates based on personal schedules. Bilingual instructors teach courses focused on strengthening skills for social studies, math, reading, writing, science and the Spanish GED. Computer lab access, individual tutoring and college/career transition planning provide well-rounded support.

12. Region One Education Service Center Adult Education & Literacy Program

Working in partnership with area school districts and community stakeholders, the Region One Education Service Center directs multiple adult education initiatives assisting adults study towards a G.E.D using free classes, tutorials and learning activities. Teacher-facilitated courses available days, nights and weekends build skills for passing the Reasoning through Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies sections of the high school equivalency exam. Classes held at sites including Hidalgo and Willacy counties also integrate digital literacy, employability training and college/career awareness to empower lifelong learners. Bilingual instructors accommodate English and Spanish speakers.

13. South Texas Adult Education & Literacy Foundation

Through a grassroots network of qualified instructors, tutors and training staff, the South Texas Adult Education & Literacy Foundation serves adult learners in Hidalgo and Starr counties seeking a high school equivalency credential. The charitable group offers G.E.D. test preparation courses at no cost guiding students through lessons that strengthen competencies for the exam’s four evaluative areas — Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Classes are available mornings and evenings depending location. The program also assists learners with job skills training, college readiness advising and transition planning for continued education or employment goals.

14. Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley (ADACCV)

Guided by the principle that education is a path to self-empowerment and healthier living, the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley facilitates adult education opportunities through its Community Learning Center. G.E.D. test prep classes offered by experienced teachers familiar with exam requirements provide structured lessons, self-guided instruction via computer modules, one-on-one tutoring and practice tests. Students also access career advising, academic counseling and additional community resources while working toward their high school equivalency credential. Financial assistance based on need may cover exam registration fees for eligible program participants.

15. South Texas College Community Engagement & Student Success Division

Supporting initiatives that remove barriers impeding student achievement, South Texas College‘s Community Engagement & Student Success Division directs programs assisting prospective students prepare for GED tests. Services including the College Pathways Project and Pathways Homeless Education Program offer personalized guidance for completing high school equivalency exams, transitioning to college/training programs, securing stable housing, finding employment and accessing community resources. Sponsoring targeted interventions that empower resilient students, the program demonstrates STC‘s commitment to serving marginalized populations.

16. Éxito Program by Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University and literacy education partners faciliate Project Éxito, an adult education program focused on assisting Spanish-speaking individuals earn U.S. high school equivalency diplomas. Offered in McAllen and other Texas communities, Éxito’s classes leverage research-based curriculum and proven learner-centric methodologies to prepare participants for success on Spanish GED tests aligned with the Pearson VUE exam model. With an intentional emphasis on social and emotional support, the program strives to meet adult learners wherever they are in their academic journey toward new possibilities.

17. Hidalgo County Head Start Project

In cooperation with partner organizations Vida Encuentro and LUPE (La Union del Pueblo Entero), Hidalgo County Head Start delivers family services and early childhood education at locations countywide. Among programs assisting parents achieve economic security is a free GED instruction track preparing adult learners for high school equivalency tests. Offered evenings and weekends when child care can be coordinated, classes incorporate group lessons, individual tutoring and learning tools focused on strengthening skills for Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies exams. Bilingual teachers accommodate Spanish speakers.

18. Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV

Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV operates Project Learn, a specialized program helping young adults who previously dropped out prepare for GED tests and high school graduation. Participants work one-on-one with instructors using targeted curriculum and interventions customized to individual academic requirements. Students also benefit from the Club’s array of youth development programs nurturing creativity, leadership and community responsibility. Support addressing basic needs like meals and medical/dental care allows teens to focus on achieving educational goals and realizing full potential.

19. UTRGV Upward Bound Program

Funded through a U.S. Department of Education TRIO grant, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley manages Upward Bound programs supporting college access and readiness among high school and high school equivalency program students. Operating since 1966, UTRGV‘s Upward Bound provides academic enhancement initiatives improving math, science, reading and writing competencies needed to excel on GED tests and ultimately thrive at the postsecondary level. The program offers a range of services assisting participants navigate education transitions and unlock future success.

20. La Esperanza Clinic Adult Education Services

In alignment with its mission of empowering families and community wellness, La Esperanza Clinic facilitates accessible GED classes through its Adult Education Services program. Certified instructors guiding adult learners through self-paced lessons in an encouraging environment promote confidence and motivation needed to pass equivalency exams. Offering courses at Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels, the program provides milestones to acknowledge growth and celebrate accomplishments. La Esperanza’s team also helps coordinate access to community resources meeting basic needs that allow students to fully engage in education.