Ohio Options for a High School Diploma

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Approximately 609,630 working-age adults in Ohio have not completed a high school diploma (or equivalent). Adults without a high school diploma are at a disadvantage when competing for Ohio’s in-demand jobs. If you do not have a high school diploma, here is a map to help you find the programs near you.

 

Administrator Information

Timeline

Next provider meeting: 

Adult Workforce Diploma Program

Beginning FY27, July 1, 2026, the new Adult Workforce Diploma Program will be available for adults 18 years old and older without a high school diploma or high school equivalence diploma. The program is no-cost to adults. Participants must be withdrawn from school and an Ohio resident. Reach out to one of the participating providers to learn more about the program. Section 3313.902 - Ohio Revised Code | Ohio Laws

Adult Workforce Diploma Program FAQ

Application Announcement
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW), Office of Career-Technical Education and Adult Options will be accepting applications from eligible providers to implement the Adult Workforce Diploma Program. Provider applications must be submitted to: dewproviderapplication@education.ohio.gov

Application Release Details
The provider application is tentatively scheduled to be released on April 20, 2026. It will be available on the Ohio Options Adult Diploma Program webpage. To access the eligible provider application, scroll to the Adult Diploma Competency-Based Educational Program section.

Provider Support and Events
To support providers through the application process, two live webinars will be offered.  Each webinar covers the same material, so attendees only need to participate in one. For those unable to attend, notes and a recording will be made available. Additionally, the Adult Options team will host two open office hours for providers to ask questions and receive guidance.

Event Schedule
Provider Application Date – April 20, 2026: Adult Workforce Program provider application tentatively scheduled to be released.
April 21, 2026, from 1:00–2:00 PM: Provider application live webinar.
April 22, 2026, from 10:00–11:00 AM: Provider application live webinar.
April 27, 2026, from 9:00–11:00 AM: Provider application open office hours.
April 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM: Provider application open office hours.

Accessing Event Link
Event links will be posted on the Ohio Options Adult Diploma Program webpage on the Department’s website. Webinar links can be accessed under the Adult Workforce Diploma Program section.

Competency-Based Diploma Pilot Program

The Competency-Based Diploma Pilot Program helps adults earn a high school diploma. The program is free to adults who are 18-21 years old, living in Ohio, withdrawn from school, and do not have a diploma or High School Equivalence. The Pilot ran from Jan. 10, 2024, to June 30, 2025.​

As of June 30, 2025, the Competency-Based Pilot Program ended. The report is now attached.

Adult 22+ High School Diploma Program

The 22+ Adult HSD Program helps adults earn a high school diploma. The program is free to adults who are over 22 years old, living in Ohio and do not have a diploma or High School Equivalence (HSE).

Adult Diploma Program

The Adult Diploma Program provides job training and a new pathway for adults, ages 18 or older, an Ohio resident, and withdrawn from school to earn a high school diploma AND industry credentials aligned to one of Ohio’s in-demand jobs.

High School Equivalency (HSE)

The Ohio High School Equivalence (HSE) provides learners 18 years of age and older, the opportunity to gain the academic skills and credentials needed for postsecondary education and workforce development. Test takers who are 16 & 17 years of age may also apply with approved documentation. 

High School Continuation Program

The High School Continuation Program allows participating local school districts to issue high school diplomas to individuals 16 or older who have met certain requirements.

Additional Adult Learner Resources

The Ohio Department of Higher Education offers programs to Ohio residents who want to advance their skills, pursue a new career, attend college or finish a workforce certificate or college degree.