HSDP (High School Diploma Program): Earn a traditional high school diploma by completing credit-bearing classes. Upon completion, students receive a joint high school diploma from San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) and San Diego Community College District (SDCCD).

HSEP (High School Equivalency Program): Classes help you prepare for and practice the GED® or HiSET® High School Equivalency subject tests. Both GED® and HiSET® are recognized by the State of California and nationally as equivalent to a high school diploma. Equivalency subject tests include Math, Reading, Writing/Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies.

High School Diploma Program (HSDP)

• Take the number of classes you are missing to meet the HSDP credit requirement (22 credits) and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA (grade point average)
• For details on required classes, visit: HSDP Course Requirements
• Upon completion of courses, students receive a joint diploma from the San Diego Unified School District and the San Diego Community College District

High School Equivalency Program (HSEP)

• Take HSEP classes at SDCCE to help you prepare for the HiSET® or GED® examinations. No grades are required, but you'll take practice tests in class to assess your readiness and identify areas needing additional study
• GED® or HiSET® do not require any grades or Grade Point Average (GPA) to take the tests
• However, you are required to pass all subject matter tests in either GED® or HiSET® testing to receive an equivalency credential recognized as equivalent to a High School Diploma in California and nationally

For more information about testing, visit: High School Equivalency (HSE) Testing Centers at SDCCE

It depends on your official transcript analysis, which shows previous credits that can transfer to the SDCCE High School Diploma. The SDCCE High School Diploma (HSD) Option 2 requires 22 credits total.

The exact number of classes you'll need depends on what credits you already have from previous education. A counselor will review your transcript to determine your specific requirements.

For more detailed information about required classes and credits, visit: HSDP Requirements

 Step 1: Apply to SDCCE

Click Apply Now and fill out the application. You'll receive your Student ID Number (CSID) usually within 24 hours - write it down!

 Step 2: Set Up Your mySDCCD Student Portal

Your portal is where you'll register for classes and access student resources. Log in or Create Your Portal

 Step 3: Choose Your Pathway

Choose either High School Diploma or High School Equivalency. A counselor can help you decide based on your past education, transcript, and goals.

 Step 4: Meet with an Academic Counselor

Schedule in person, by phone, or on Zoom. Contact options:

• Visit an SDCCE Campus
• Contact the SDCCE Virtual Welcome Center
• Phone Student Services at 619-388-SDCE (7323)

What to Bring: Official sealed high school transcripts from ALL high schools you've attended. This saves time and helps with proper class placement!

 Step 5: Enroll in a Class

Choose from classes listed on the HSDP page, HSEP page, or the Course List. Then enroll through mySDCCD.

Yes! We offer flexible learning options to fit your lifestyle. You can find class "Types" listed in our course offerings to see what format works best for you.

Visit the "courses offered this semester" list under each program area and search by class "Type" to see your options. 

Whether you're a morning person who loves campus life or a night owl who prefers online learning, we've got you covered!

No, it's not required - but we strongly encourage it! A counselor can help you choose the right pathway (Diploma or Equivalency) and the best classes to make the most of your time and reach your goals efficiently.

Think of it as having a GPS for your educational journey - you can drive without one, but it sure makes the trip smoother!

Technically no - but it's highly recommended! Classes help improve test readiness and confidence, and may qualify you for test voucher support.

For High School Diploma: Yes - When you meet with a counselor, bring official transcripts from all U.S. high schools you've attended.

For High School Equivalency: No - transcripts are not required, but we encourage you to review your education history with an academic counselor to determine the best program for your goals.

Completion times depend on several factors, both academic and personal:

Academic Factors:

• How many credits you need (for diploma)
• Your educational history and current skill level
• Class attendance and course availability

Personal Factors:

• Your learning style and pace
• Time management and study skills
• Personal commitment and motivation
• Having clear goals and reasons for pursuing your credential

Typical Timeframes:

• High School Diploma: Varies based on credits needed; each course is typically 6 weeks
• High School Equivalency: Students may complete test preparation and testing in 6-12 months, depending on attendance, educational background, and skill level

If you're not sure what program is best for you, schedule an appointment with an academic counselor to discuss your options. They can help you make an informed decision based on your unique situation.

Ways to schedule counseling:

• Visit an SDCCE Campus
• Contact the SDCCE Welcome Center
• Phone Student Services at 619-388-SDCE (7323)

If you can bring the most recent copy of your official sealed high school transcripts from all high schools you've attended, this will save time and help with proper program placement!

All High School classes are free. There are no fees for books or materials.

However, official HS Equivalency testing for GED® or HiSET® have costs that are paid directly to the test provider. For detailed testing cost information, visit our High School Equivalency (HSE) Testing Centers page.

It would be best to meet with an academic counselor for your unique situation. If your foreign diploma is officially evaluated and meets U.S. requirements, you may not need a high school equivalency.

However, for some college programs or employers, you may be advised to pursue HS Equivalency GED®/HiSET® for broader acceptance.

To make an appointment with an academic counselor:

• Visit an SDCCE Campus
• Contact the SDCCE Welcome Center
• Phone Student Services at 619-388-SDCE (7323)

Yes! Concurrent enrollment while attending one of the credit community colleges at SDCCD is allowed. You may take noncredit or credit CTE or credit college courses alongside your High School classes.

For the High School Diploma at SDCCE, there is actually a college course requirement.

Talk to your counselor for more information.

To make an appointment with an academic counselor:

• Visit an SDCCE Campus
• Contact the SDCCE Welcome Center
• Phone Student Services at 619-388-SDCE (7323)

Through the Disability Support Program & Services (DSPS) at SDCCE, accommodations such as extended time, voice-to-text, interpreters, adaptive technology, and other supports are available at no extra cost.

To arrange support:

• Schedule an appointment online
• Email: sdcedsps@sdccd.edu
• Call: 619-388-4812

Learn more about the DSPS program

Absolutely! We offer Adult Basic Education (ABE) courses to build your foundational skills before moving on to diploma or equivalency coursework.

Start with Adult Basic Education classes in reading, writing, or math to build your skills first.

For information on how to obtain a copy of your SDCCE diploma for employment, school, or military purposes, visit the SDCCE Admissions & Records webpage. 

Important Note

Only the test taker can initiate a search for GED® or HiSET® records. Federal law prohibits discussing test taker information with third parties such as employers, schools, or military.

For GED® certificate or transcript copies:

• Call: 888-906-4031
• Visit: GEDTS Parchment website

For HiSET® certificate or transcript copies:

• Call: 1-888-662-0874
• Visit: HiSET® Parchment website

For more information from the California Department of Education: High School Equivalency (HSE) Tests

SDCCE CARES is a comprehensive basic needs program designed to help students meet fundamental needs including:

• Food assistance
• Housing support
• Transportation help
• Childcare resources
• Healthcare connections
• Mental wellness support

CARES connects students to dignified, accessible, and timely resources that allow students to live well and thrive while completing their educational goals. We offer both on-campus and off-campus support programs.

For more information: https://sdcce.edu/services/sdcce-cares