Binghamton Adult Education

WE'RE ALL ABOUT SECOND CHANCES

The Binghamton City School District is proud of its contribution to the community. The Adult Education Program has a long history of providing quality free GED (High School Equivalency) and ESL (English as a Second Language) instruction to adult learners. 607-763-4863

Who Can Benefit From Our Programs?

Adults who want to earn a high school equivalency diploma
Adults who need to improve reading and math skills
Adults from other countries who need instruction in speaking, reading and writing English

Classes Offered 

GED Classes 

High School Equivalency Instruction in the "NEW" New York State GED Test. 

The GED Program is designed for persons who are at least 19 years in age, but who, for various reasons, did not complete the requirements for high school graduation. Various free options are available for persons who wish to develop or refresh the skills necessary for successful completion of the high school equivalency test.

All new students are required to take a reading and math assessment to assure proper placement. This test should take approximately two hours. The assessment is given daily at United Presbyterian School, 42 Chenango St, Binghamton, NY 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  Class hours are 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Night Classes are being held at the American Civic Association, 131 Front Street Binghamton, NY, Tuesday and Wednesdays 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. If you would like to enroll in the night program you can take the placement test at 5 p.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday Evening.

Taking the New GED Test

The GED test is a High School Equivalency (H S E) national examination developed by GED. The test is available to adults who did not graduate from high school or whose diplomas may not be recognized by New York State. In New York State, the GED is offered in English and Spanish.

When candidates pass the GED Test in Spanish, they receive a high school equivalency diploma with a designation of Spanish.

There are four tests in the GED Test Battery: Language arts- reading and writing; social studies; science; and mathematics. The tests take more than seven hours to complete and include a direct writing assessment. To ensure that the content and skills measured by the tests remain closely matched to contemporary high school curriculum, the tests undergo regular review.

The GED Tests cover the same subjects that people study in high school. Candidates are not required to know all of the information that is usually taught in high school, however, across the four tests, candidates are tested on their ability to read and process information, solve problems, and communicate effectively.

ESL Classes

English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are designed for adults 19 years of age and older, many who are just entering the United States for the first time, and who have the desire to learn English or improve their English speaking skills. Our students also gain the life skills necessary to persevere in our society.

As you enter the ESL program you will be given an assessment to ensure we place you in a class based on your current abilities. The assessment is given daily at the American Civic Association, 131 Front Street, Binghamton, NY 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., as well as Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 5 p.m.

As you improve your English speaking skills you will progress through the four different levels meeting and making new friends from all over the globe, and don't be surprised if you run into someone from your own country. ESL curriculum includes Speaking, writing, reading and understanding English.

Class hours are Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 12:00 noon, as well as Tuesday and Wednesday evenings 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Classes operate year round.

ESL classes are always held at the American Civic Association 131 Front Street, Binghamton, NY 13905.


Out of School Youth and Job Training Initiative

The "Job Training Initiative" is designed for persons who are ages 19 to 21, but who, for various reasons, did not complete the requirements for high school graduation, or who lack the English skills necessary to gain their first meaningful employment.

After successful completion of the training our dedicated staff will tap into a network of employers, ready willing and able to hire dedicated hardworking individuals.

All new students are required to take a placement test to assure proper class assignment.

Individuals that lack the skills to speak English, are given an assessment at the American Civic Association, 131 Front Street, Binghamton, NY 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday.

For all others, the assessment is given daily at United Presbyterian School, 42 Chenango St, Binghamton, NY 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday.

This free training is sponsored by the City of Binghamton and consists of five modules each of which are designed to improve a specific skill and give the student confidence and knowledge necessary to start a career. 


1. World of work orientation module
2. Job application assistance module
3. Resume preparation module
4. Employment skills preparation module
5. Interviewing skills preparation module