20 Best G.E.D Programs In Rochester, NY (2023 Updated)
Earning a G.E.D. (General Educational Development) can open up new doors and opportunities for academic and career success. For many adults, obtaining a G.E.D. serves as a stepping stone to further education, job training, career advancement, and greater earning potential. Rochester, NY offers many excellent options for G.E.D. preparation and testing. This guide explores the top 20 G.E.D. programs in Rochester to help adults find the right fit for their needs and goals.
What is the G.E.D.?
The G.E.D is a series of four tests designed to measure whether individuals have the academic skills and knowledge expected of high school graduates. The G.E.D. assesses competency in subject areas including math, science, social studies, reading, and writing. By passing the exam, adults can earn a credential equivalent to a high school diploma.
The G.E.D. opens doors to postsecondary education, vocational training programs, military service, and jobs requiring a high school credential. While each situation differs, research shows that G.E.D. graduates typically earn higher incomes than individuals without a high school-level qualification.
Benefits of Earning a G.E.D. in Rochester, NY
Pursuing a G.E.D. in Rochester provides many advantages:
- Access to free adult education and literacy programs offered through the Rochester City School District. These classes prepare individuals to pass the G.E.D. exams.
- Strong employment prospects in the Rochester area. Many local employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. A G.E.D. enhances competitiveness in the job market.
- Pathway to vocational certificates and two-year associate degree programs at community colleges like Monroe Community College, making candidates eligible for in-demand jobs and trades.
- Ability to pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree at area institutions like the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology. A G.E.D. satisfies most colleges’ high school education requirements.
- Self-confidence and personal satisfaction in achieving an important academic and career benchmark.
Rochester provides top-notch G.E.D. preparation resources. Local organizations understand the diverse needs of adult learners and offer flexible options to fit different schedules and learning styles.
What to Look for in a Quality G.E.D. Program
When researching G.E.D. programs, consider the following markers of a high-quality offering:
- Structured curriculum: Look for a structured course focused on the skills and content areas covered in the G.E.D. exam. Quality programs align materials directly to the test.
- Experienced instructors: Opt for a program with engaged teachers who adapt instruction to different learning styles. Many programs rely on volunteer tutors. Seek tutors with specific training in adult education.
- Convenience: Make sure the schedule and location fit your needs. Some programs offer night or weekend classes. Online options provide flexibility.
- Affordability: Rochester offers free or low-cost adult education. Beware of services charging excessive fees.
- Practice tests: Programs should provide access to official practice tests so you can gauge readiness.
- Exam registration assistance: The best programs guide students through registering, scheduling, and preparing for the actual G.E.D. tests.
Consider both traditional classroom environments and self-directed learning options to determine the right approach. Now, let’s explore the top G.E.D. preparation programs and testing centers in Rochester, NY.
20 Best G.E.D. Programs in Rochester, NY
1. Rochester City School District Adult Education
With six locations across Rochester, this free program offers diverse course delivery methods and scheduling options. Students receive individualized academic support and career counseling. Classes are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings to serve different schedules.
Location: Multiple locations in Rochester, NY
Format: In-person and online classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 262-8170
2. East High School
East High School hosts a G.E.D program through Rochester City School District Adult Education. Classes are available mornings and evenings. Counselors provide resources on college and employment.
Location: 1801 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14609
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 288-3130
3. Monroe Community College Workforce Development Institute
This program offers everything from basic reading and math instruction to accelerated G.E.D. preparation. Students receive tutoring and access to the college’s learning labs. Classes take place mornings, afternoons and evenings.
Location: 1000 E Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free for qualifying students
Contact: (585) 292-2060
4. Action for a Better Community (ABC)
ABC provides free classes in partnership with the Rochester City School District. Students get tutoring for the G.E.D. exam. Spanish G.E.D. prep is available. Classes take place mornings and evenings.
Location: 34 Meigs St, Rochester, NY 14607
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 325-5116
5. Rochester Educational Opportunity Center
With flexible scheduling, this SUNY-administered program offers everything from basic literacy to G.E.D. preparation at no cost. Academic support and career counseling provided.
Location: 161 Chestnut St, Rochester, NY 14604
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 232-2730
6. Open Door Mission G.E.D. Program
This Christ-centered program provides instruction for G.E.D. exams. Open to residents of the men’s shelter. Schedule allows time for work. Small classes and one-on-one tutoring.
Location: 210 W Main St, Rochester, NY 14604
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free for residents
Contact: (585) 325-4224
7. PathStone Corporation
PathStone offers free G.E.D. instruction along with career services and job placement assistance. Classes available mornings and evenings to accommodate work schedules.
Location: 770 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14605
Format: In–person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 546-3700
8. Greece Community Education Program
G.E.D. prep classes provided in partnership with Rochester City School District Adult Education. Instruction available mornings and evenings.
Location: 75 Maiden Lane, Rochester, NY 14615
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 966-2000
9. Catholic Family Center’s Learning Centers
This community-based program offers free G.E.D. prep classes and one-on-one tutoring. Instruction times accommodate work schedules.
Location: 87 N Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY 14604
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 546-7220
10. RochesterWorks! Career Center
RochesterWorks provides free G.E.D. preparation workshops. Additional services include career counseling, skills training referrals, and job search assistance.
Location: 255 North Goodman Street, Rochester, NY 14607
Format: In-person workshops
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 258-3500
11. VA National Education for Veterans Program
This free program is for veterans without a high school diploma. Includes tutoring, counseling, and transition support. Aligns with VA vocational rehabilitation services.
Location: 465 Westfall Rd, Rochester, NY 14620
Format: In-person and online
Cost: Free for eligible veterans
Contact: (888) 442-4551
12. Rochester Public Library
Free G.E.D. prep classes offered in partnership with Rochester City School District Adult Education. Day and evening sessions at multiple library branches.
Location: Multiple Monroe County Libraries
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 428-8205
13. Center for Teen Empowerment
CTE provides free G.E.D. preparation tailored for youth and young adults (ages 16-24). Offers one-on-one tutoring and advising.
Location: 274 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607
Format: In-person and remote sessions
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 271-7627
14. Southeast Works Career Center
Offers G.E.D. preparation workshops tailored for ages 17-24. Also provides job search assistance, skills training referrals, counseling.
Location: 210 Fair Street, Rochester, NY 14605
Format: In-person workshops
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 258-3520
15. Rochester Housing Authority Father Tracy Advocacy Center
G.E.D. classes offered evenings onsite at Eugenio Maria de Hostos charter school. Open to Rochester Housing Authority residents and voucher holders.
Location: 259 Alexander Street, Rochester, NY 14607
Format: In-person evening classes
Cost: Free for RHA residents/voucher holders
Contact: (585) 697-6160
16. The Center for Youth G.E.D. Program
This program helps students ages 16-20 prepare for G.E.D. exams through small group tutoring and personalized instruction. College/career guidance provided.
Location: 324 N Goodman St Suite 202, Rochester, NY 14607
Format: In-person and remote tutoring
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 271-7635
17. Baden Street Settlement G.E.D Program
G.E.D. preparation and life skills classes offered at no cost. Includes career counseling and college transition support.
Location: 152 Baden Street, Rochester, NY 14605
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 325-4910
18. Rochester City School District CHS @ Edison
Rochester‘s evening high school program prepares students over 17 to pass the G.E.D. exam. Offers flexible scheduling and individualized instruction.
Location: 655 Colfax Street, Rochester, NY 14606
Format: In-person evening classes
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 262-8363
19. Literacy Volunteers of Rochester
This nonprofit offers free one-on-one G.E.D. tutoring. Programs available mornings, afternoons and evenings. Tutors are specially trained to work with adult learners.
Location: 1600 South Ave Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14620
Format: In-person tutoring
Cost: Free
Contact: (585) 473-3030
20. Homeless and Travelers Aid Society (Rochester Housing Support Services)
Flexible G.E.D. classes offered onsite for residents along with academic support and college/career transition assistance.
Location: 880 Westfall Road, Rochester, NY 14620
Format: In-person classes
Cost: Free for residents
Contact: (585) 787-2100
Key Takeaways
- Rochester offers numerous high-quality G.E.D. programs tailored to diverse learning needs and schedules. Take time to research options.
- Look for structured curriculum, experienced instructors, convenience, affordability, practice tests, and registration assistance.
- Consider both traditional classes and alternative delivery methods like online or one-on-one tutoring.
- Completing the G.E.D. opens doors to college, vocational training, military service, and enhanced employment opportunities.
- Local organizations provide free or low-cost G.E.D. prep classes across Rochester. Programs assist with transition to next steps after completion.
Earning a G.E.D. credential can be a life-changing achievement. Rochester provides accessible pathways and resources. Finding the right program accelerates success in obtaining this key educational milestone.
