The National External Diploma Program (NEDP) was created to help mature students connect their real-life and occupational skills with academic abilities required to meet national high school standards. The NEDP is designed to help those candidates who need a high school diploma, but choose to not go through traditional high school credit classes or the GED program.  

NEDP or National External Diploma Program

• NEDP is a great option for busy, self-motivated adults with life experience. 

• Adults completing the NEDP earn a regular high school diploma from East Haven Adult Education.  

• There is no cost for this program in Connecticut.

• The NEDP is flexible and offers times that can accommodate most busy schedules. You meet with an assessor for an appointment, once a week for up to two hours. This appointment may be at school or remotely.

• The curriculum is online, so most of the work is done at home or at a location of your choice when it is convenient for you.

• NEDP is NOT test-based.  Clients work their way through a series of Competency Areas (Units of Study), completing each one at a time.  Any work that does not meet the standard set by CASAS can be fixed until the skill is demonstrated. 

What are the eligibility requirements for entry into NEDP?

The candidate’s skill level at the time of enrollment, how much review of basic skills is needed, and how closely the client adheres to the timeframe set by the program, will determine how long the process will take. 

• Minimum score of a 236 on the CASAS Goals Reading Test during intake at EHALC.

• Minimum score of a 226 on the CASAS Goals Math Test during intake at EHALC

• Score of a 3+ on a sample essay similar to the required NEDP Writing Diagnostics essay.

In most instances, once a candidate achieves General Assessment status, it takes most clients between 7 - 9 months to complete the program.

What if I don’t reach one or more of the minimum scores?

Tutoring and Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes are available for those who score below the required minimum in reading, math and/or writing. These services are provided by our supportive and certified teaching staff who base the help they provide on YOUR needs and goals.  Remedial classes are held mornings and Monday/Wednesday evenings at the EHALC.  

What are the NEDP class times?

NEDP does not have traditional classes. Instead it offers a more flexible time schedule and independence from traditional classes and does not focus on tests as does the GED. Once you qualify for NEDP, appointments are scheduled at mutually convenient times for the client and their assessor.  Consequently, it allows the candidate multiple opportunities to correct the assignments and therefore, learn at his/her own pace. These appointments may be in-person or remote.  Evening at-school work-hours are held at school on Mondays and Wednesdays. 

If you are interested in NEDP, contact program lead assessor, Nettie Rank, for an appointment by phone (203) 468-3795 or email nrank@east-haven.k12.ct.us.