Adult Education and Literacy refers to programs and initiatives designed to help adults acquire essential skills such as reading, writing, math, English language proficiency, and problem-solving. These skills are foundational for individuals to function effectively as workers, family members, and citizens.

Purpose and Scope

• Funded by Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). AEL Program aim to improve basic skills, prepare adults for employment, support family literacy, and promote civic engagement.

Services Offered

• Basic education: Reading, writing, and math.
• English language learning: For non-native speakers.
• High school equivalency: Preparation for GED or other diplomas.
• Workforce training: Skills for specific jobs or career advancement.
• Digital literacy: Using technology effectively.

As of 2025, the Texas Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program has specific eligibility requirements based on federal and state guidelines. Here’s a summary of who qualifies:

General Eligibility Criteria
To enroll in AEL services, individuals must:
1. Be at least 16 years old, and:

• Not currently enrolled in school. (more information below)
• Not required to be enrolled under Texas state law

2. Meet one or more of the following conditions:

• Lack basic reading, writing, or math skills.
• Do not have a high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED).
• Have limited English proficiency (cannot speak, read, or write English fluently)
• We cannot serve those with an F1 Visa

Citizenship and Immigration Status
Under federal guidelines (as of July 2025), only the following individuals may receive federally funded adult education services:

• U.S. Citizens
• U.S. Nationals
• Qualified Aliens, as defined by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act. This includes lawful permanent residents and immigrants.

Assessment Requirements
Participants must undergo an educational assessment to determine their skill level and placement. This includes:

• Pretests in reading, math, or English language skills.
• Periodic posttests to measure progress

For individuals under 18 years old who wish to enroll in Adult Educa tion and Literacy (AEL) programs in Texas, the following documents are required:

Required Documents for 16- and 18-Year-Olds
1. Official Withdrawal Form

• Must be obtained from the last high school attended.
• Confirms the student is no longer enrolled in a secondary school
• Texas law requires students under 18 to be exempt from compulsory school attendance to qualify for AEL.

2. Parental Consent

• A signed document from a parent or legal guardian granting permission to participate in the AEL program

3. Proof of Identity

• A government-issued photo ID (e.g., Texas Driver’s License or State ID).
• Social Security Number (SSN)

4. Date of Birth Documentation

• Required to verify age eligibility (must be at least 16 years old)

5. Registration and Assessment

• All participants must complete orientation and take placement assessments before starting classes

No, students who meet the requirements do not have to pay for their classes. Students must commit to the time and work required by the class.

While classes are free, students may need to pay for practice tests or official GED exams, and class materials (notebooks, pen, pencil, etc.)

In Texas, the cost of the GED® test and whether you have to pay depends on your age, eligibility, and enrollment in an Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program.

Standard GED Test Costs (2025)

• In-person testing: \$36.25 per subject (4 subjects total = \$145)
• Online testing: \$42.25 per subject (4 subjects total = \$169)

Free GED Testing Through AEL

If you're enrolled in an AEL program and meet certain criteria, you may not have to pay for the GED test:

• The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) offers the High School Equivalency (HSE) Subsidy Program, which covers GED test fees for eligible students.

To qualify, you must:

• Be 21 years or older
• Be a Texas resident
• Be enrolled in an AEL program
• Meet attendance requirements
• Score “Ready” on the CASAS test

What You Might Still Pay For

• Practice tests (unless covered by the program)
• Retake fees if you don’t pass on the first try
• Transcript or certificate copies (around \$5 for a printable PDF)

Programs Offered by Central Texas College AEL

• High School Equivalency (HSE) Preparation
  • Prepares students to take the GED exams.
  • Includes instruction in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
  • Students must complete an assessment and meet attendance requirements

• English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • For adults learning English to improve communication skills.
  • Focuses on conversational English, grammar, reading, writing, listening, and vocabulary.
  • Tailored to each student’s level and needs and must meet attendance requirements
  • Employment Preparation (ITP)
  • Helps students develop skills needed for workforce success.
  • May include resume writing, interview skills, and workplace communication

• Integrated Education and Training (IET)
  • Combines basic education with workforce training.
  • Designed for specific career pathways to help students gain credentials and employment.

Contact or visit the AEL Office to schedule an orientation

• Office Hours: M-Th 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., F 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Phone: Call 254-526-1120 or 254-526-3385
• Email: Send a message to adult.education@ctcd.edu
• Include:
  1. Your first and last name
  2. Your preferred email address
  3. The program you're interested in (e.g., GED prep, ESL, workforce training)
• Attend Orientation (by appointment only)
  1. Orientation is required before starting classes
  2. You’ll receive details about class schedules and expectations
• Complete an Assessment (by appointment only)
  1. You’ll be scheduled for an initial educational assessment to determine your placement level. 
  2. This is not a pass/fail test—it helps match you with the right class.
• Start Classes
  1. You will be placed in classes based on test results and availability.

What to Bring to Orientation

• Valid REAL Photo ID
• Social Security Card
• US Birth Certificate
• Withdrawal Form (if under 18) aged 16–17, showing official withdrawal from high school
• Parental Consent (if under 18) signed form from a parent or guardian allowing participation
• Proof of Residency to confirm Texas residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
• Any Completed Forms If you’ve already filled out enrollment or intake
• Notebook and Pen
• Questions or Goals Be ready to discuss your educational and career goals with staff

Yes, testing is required to enroll in the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program at Central Texas College (CTC).

Required Testing: CASAS Assessment

CTC uses the CASAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems) test to evaluate your current skill levels in:

• Reading
• Math (with and without a calculator)
• Language comprehension

This assessment helps us place you in the appropriate class level and track your progress throughout the program.

When and How Testing Happens

• You’ll receive information about scheduling the CASAS test after orientation. Once you complete and submit your enrollment paperwork and required documentation.
• After completing the test, your scores will be reviewed with you by the instructor and Career Navigator to help set learning goals

Why It’s Important

• Testing is not pass/fail—it’s used to determine your starting point.
• It’s also required by the Texas Workforce Commission to measure progress and ensure program effectiveness

After you take the CASAS assessment for the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program at Central Texas College, here’s what happens next:

Score Review and Class Placement

• The AEL office will review your assessment scores to determine your current skill level in reading, math, or English.
• Based on your results, they will place you in the most appropriate class—whether it's for GED preparation, ESL, or another program.
• They will also try to accommodate your preferred schedule when assigning your class

Class Assignment

• You’ll be contacted with your class schedule, location, and start date.
• Classes are typically held twice a week and are free, including leaning tools.

Goal Setting

• During or after placement, you may work with staff to set educational or career goals.
• This helps tailor your learning experience and track progress.

Yes, if you're enrolled in the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program at Central Texas College, you will be required to take progress tests.

Progress Testing Details

• After your initial CASAS assessment, you’ll be placed in a class based on your skill level.
• You are then required to retake an assessment every 40–70 hours of instruction to measure your progress
• These progress tests help instructors:
  • Track your learning gains
  • Adjust instruction if needed
  • Determine readiness for GED testing or advancement to higher-level classes

Why It Matters

• Progress testing is a state and federal requirement under the Texas Workforce Commission’s guidelines.
• It ensures that students are making Measurable Skill Gains (MSGs), which are used to evaluate program effectiveness and student success
• How long will it take me to get my GED or complete ESL courses?

The time it takes to complete your GED or ESL training through the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program at Central Texas College depends on several factors, including your current skill level and how much time and effort you dedicate to the program.

Estimated Completion Time

• GED Preparation:
  f you consistently attend classes and work hard, you can typically complete GED preparation and testing in under a year
• ESL Training:
  SL completion time varies more widely depending on your starting level of English proficiency. Some students may progress significantly in 6–12 months, while others may continue in advanced ESL or transition programs for longer.

Factors That Affect Completion Time

• Your initial CASAS assessment scores
• Attendance and participation
• Homework and practice outside of class
• Readiness for GED testing, determined by practice test scores