Northwest Iowa Community College provides Adult Literacy services to residents of the following Iowa counties: Lyon, O'Brien, Osceola, Sioux and part of Cherokee. Through the Adult Literacy Program, adults have with an opportunity to improve their basic skills in order to advance in their careers and/or enter college. Instructors are also willing to assist in basic computer instruction, resume writing and preparation for entry into college. The Adult Literacy schedule is located on the NCC website at http://www.nwicc.edu/prospective-students/academics/ged-esl.aspx

General Education Development (GED)
The General Educational Development (GED) Tests enable individuals who have not completed high school to obtain a High School Equivalency Diploma from the State of Iowa. It certifies that an individual has achieved a level of educational development comparable to that of a high school graduate. The GED Certificate will provide access to better jobs and college programming.
Enrollment - The first step is to set up an appointment with the Adult Literacy Office at Northwest Iowa Community College. As part of the enrollment process, you will work out an education plan which will identify the skills you wish to acquire for success in college or the workplace.
Preparation - Most people need to improve their skills before attempting the GED Tests. Based on assessment results, you may be referred to an instructor for assistance. Instruction is individualized and based on your educational goals. Don't be surprised if it takes at least 8 hours to prepare in each subject area. GED instruction at NCC is offered in both English and Spanish. Students wishing to test in Spanish are encouraged to attend the structured class sessions provided in Orange City and Rock Valley.

English as a Second Language (ESL)
Small group instruction is available at various sites throughout the region for those adults wishing to improve their reading, writing or speaking skills. Students may also work on computer literacy skills or receive assistance with citizenship preparation. Instructors will work with students to set goals for the workplace and further education. For a class schedule in Spanish, check out NCC's website at http://www.nwicc.edu/home/en-espanol/.