Flexible Online Diploma for Adults 18+

Adult High School Diploma Program – Finish School on Your Terms

If you're thinking about getting your GED online, consider a better alternative: earn an accredited adult high school diploma online through Excel High School. Designed specifically for adults 18 and older, our Online Adult High School Diploma Program offers a fast track, self-paced, and affordable path to graduation. Don’t just settle for a GED—graduate with an official high school diploma.

Accredited Education

Excel High School offers regionally accredited courses, ensuring that diplomas are recognized by colleges, employers, and the military.

Affordable Tuition

We offer low monthly tuition options, making high-quality education accessible to a wide range of students, including those seeking an adult diploma.

Flexible Learning

Our self-paced, online programs allow students to learn on their own schedule, making it easier to balance education with other commitments.

Program Overview

Excel High School’s Adult High School Diploma Program provides adults 18 and older with a flexible, convenient way to earn a fully accredited high school diploma online. This program is a respected online GED alternative—ideal for those who have been out of school for at least six months and are ready to take the next step toward a brighter future. Designed to be 100% online and self-paced, it offers an accessible path for adults who want to avoid traditional high school or equivalency exams like the GED®, HiSET®, or TASC®.

The program requires 21.5 total credits, typically spread across six courses per grade level. Students can finish on their own schedule, with up to 24 months allowed for completion—making it easy to balance school with work, family, or other commitments.

Tuition is just $99 per month, with a pay-as-you-go model. That means students only pay for the time they need. For example, if you finish your diploma in five months, you’ll pay only $495 in total—making this one of the most affordable diploma options available.

With open enrollment, self-paced learning, and a structure built for busy adult learners, Excel High School helps you earn a real high school diploma online—a credential recognized by colleges, employers, and the military. Whether you’re seeking a second chance, a new opportunity, or a fresh start, this program helps you reach your goals—on your own terms.

Starting is Easy

Want to learn more about earning your accredited high school diploma? Just enter your name and email below, and we'll send you a series of helpful emails to guide you through the process.

Online High School Courses

Explore Our High School Curriculum

Below are some recommended courses tailored to help you excel in this program. Our Below are suggested courses designed to support your journey in this program. Our Success Coach team will work with you to choose the best courses for your goals and interests. Explore different pathways here. We also offer grade-level-specific recommendations to ensure you’re on the right path every step of the way.

Browse the full range of courses we offer in our course catalog

Language Arts

Mathematics

Science

Social Studies

Electives

English 9

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Language Arts

English 10

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Language Arts

English 11

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Language Arts

English 12: British Literature

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Language Arts

Algebra 1

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Mathematics

Algebra 2

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Mathematics

Consumer Math

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Mathematics

Geometry

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Mathematics

Integrated Algebra

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Mathematics

Biology

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Science

Chemistry

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Science

Earth and Space Science

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Science

Physics

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Science

Physical Science

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Science

Economics

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Social Studies

World Geography

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Social Studies

World History

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Social Studies

U.S. Government

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Social Studies

American History

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Social Studies

Please Note: Our AP Electives are included in our Advanced Placement & Honors Program Tuition , but students enrolled in High School (Standard) or High School (Honors) may request these courses as single courses, but would be subject to an additional fee.

(See Our Tuition & Pricing Here)

ACT Prep

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective

Agriscience

Credits: 0.5

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, Science

American Sign Language 1

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, Second Language

American Sign Language 2

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, Second Language

AP Psychology

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Advanced Placement

Course Subject: Elective, Human Sciences

AP Spanish Language and Culture

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Advanced Placement

Course Subject: Elective, Second Language

Art Appreciation

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, Fine Art

Astronomy

Credits: 0.5

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, Science

Biotechnology

Credits: 0.5

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, STEM

Business Management

Credits: 1.0

Course Type: Standard High School

Course Subject: Elective, Business

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Let’s Take It Further

Curious about the details? These blog articles offer helpful insights, real-world examples, and answers to common questions so you can feel confident about what comes next.

Deciding between a GED and a high school diploma depends on your goals. A GED offers a quicker test-based credential, while a diploma provides structured learning and broader opportunities. This post breaks down the differences and explains why more adults are choosing to earn their high school diploma online—on their schedule, and on their terms.

Thinking about finishing high school as an adult? This post explains how Excel’s online adult diploma program works—starting with six core courses, progressing one subject at a time, and giving you credit for prior work. It’s not a GED, but a real high school diploma built for busy adults who want flexibility without starting from scratch.

Wondering whether to earn a GED or a high school diploma? This guide compares both options and explains why a diploma can lead to better jobs, college access, and long-term success.

Our FAQs

How Can We Help You?

Is Excel High School Accredited?

Excel High School is regionally accredited by Cognia, the parent organization of the North Central Association CASI, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools CASI, and the Northwest Accrediting Commission.

In addition to being regionally accredited by Cognia, NCA, SACS, and NWAC, Excel High School has prestigious accreditation by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools CESS. We are also an "A+" Rated, Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau. Excel High School issues the same accredited high school diploma as Public Schools. Excel High School is approved by numerous State agencies to ensure standards are met. 
Read More about Our Accreditation Here

What makes Excel High School different from other online schools?
Excel High School offers a fully accredited, 100% online education that’s flexible, affordable, and self-paced. Students can enroll anytime and begin learning on their schedule, with up to 12 months to complete full-year courses and 6 months for single or half-year courses. Our curriculum meets national standards and offers a wide range of core and elective courses, including standard, honors, and AP options to support each student’s unique path.

What sets Excel apart is our commitment to student success. Our academic and success coaches are available during business hours to provide guidance and planning support through the Help Desk in the learning portal. Students also benefit from BRYTE, our AI-powered learning assistant, which offers instant help and explanations directly within their courses—anytime they need it.

We’re here to empower students of all ages to earn a high school diploma on their terms, without sacrificing quality or flexibility.

Does Excel High School offer academic support?
While our courses are self-paced and designed for independent learning, we know that questions can come up along the way. Students can request help anytime through the Help Desk inside their Learn Stage portal. Our team of academic and success coaches is here during business hours to support you with coursework, planning, and goal setting.
What types of programs does Excel High School offer?

Excel High School offers a variety of programs to support students at every stage of their academic journey. For middle school students in grades 6-8, we provide courses designed to build a solid educational foundation. For high school students ages 14-18 (grades 9-12), we offer several pathways, including standard high school, honors programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses for those seeking a more rigorous challenge. 

We also offer an adult high school diploma program for students over the age of 18 who have been out of school for at least six months.

For families seeking a faith-based learning approach, we have a sister school, Northgate Academy, which provides a similar high school program from a Christian perspective.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.