Adult Diploma and High School Equivalency


The Adult Diploma Program (ADP) is a series of classes and academic tasks that allow students to earn a verified high school credential from Somerville Public Schools, preparing them for college, job training, or employment. SCALE also serves as a testing center for the HiSET high school equivalency exam and provides ADP services and testing. SCALE staff can explain which diploma is right for you. Contact the SCALE office at 617-629-5500 (x6900).

Adult Diploma Services (ADP)

The Adult Diploma Program (ADP) offers an alternative pathway to earning a high school diploma. The program includes task-based preparation in which students complete five applied projects demonstrating essential life and academic skills. Tasks may include activities such as map reading, research and writing, health and science topics, career exploration, resume development, and postsecondary planning.

Each task is evaluated by an instructor, and students must demonstrate competency across 64 life skills organized into five areas: community and beyond, financial literacy and numeracy, health and science, history and social science, and college and career readiness. Instruction is provided through individual and small-group learning with instructor support.

Each task is evaluated by an ADP Assessor who provides guidance and feedback as students demonstrate competency. Students receive individualized and small-group instruction, allowing them to progress at their own pace and receive support from experienced instructors.

The program also integrates college and career preparation, helping students explore careers, research education and training opportunities, develop resumes, and plan for their next steps.

Through applied learning, personalized support, and career planning, the ADP offers a flexible, practical pathway to earning a high school diploma and preparing for the future.

ADP LIFE SKILLS

  • Community and Beyond – developing skills for navigating and participating effectively in the community and broader society.
  • Financial Literacy and Numeracy – applying mathematical and financial skills to everyday decision-making and resource management.
  • Health and Science – understanding health, wellness, scientific information, and the application of science to everyday life.
  • History and Social Science – developing an understanding of history, government, society, and the individual’s role in the community.
  • College and Career Readiness – developing the academic, professional, and planning skills needed for employment, career training, and postsecondary education.

High School Equivalency Testing

A High School Equivalency test center is located at SCALE. The test center offers both HiSET and GED tests. To take the HiSET test, individuals must register online through the ETS/HiSET website at https://hiset.org/.

An account is created on the site to schedule testing, pay fees, and select a test center. For questions, contact ETS/HiSET Customer Service at 1-855-694-4738.

GED Services

To take the GED test, individuals must register online through the GED website at ged.com. An account is created on the site to schedule testing, pay fees, and select a test center. For questions, contact GED Customer Service at 877-EXAM-GED (877-392-6433).
For additional information, call 617-629-5500.

Need a Transcript?

For HiSET and/or GED Transcripts

Contact:

For an ADP transcript

Contact:

  • Somerville Center for Adult Learning Experiences
    167 Holland Street
    Somerville, MA 02144
  • 617-629-5500