Adult Basic Education & GED Preparation

Whether it is for a personal or career-oriented reason, Iowa Western’s Adult Literacy program can help. Available services include GED preparation, review of reading, writing, and math, college knowledge classes,  GEDi-online preparation specific skills training such as keyboarding or using measurements and survival English for English as a Second Language (ESL) students.

The student is assessed to determine strengths and a starting level which results in an individualized instruction plan focused on the student’s needs.

Iowa Western serves a seven county area and provides Adult Literacy services at a number of locations throughout. See the class schedule for scheduling at the Atlantic, Shenandoah, Clarinda and Harlan IWCC Centers as well as the Adult Learning Center in Council Bluffs.

A $25.00 registration fee is due at the time of registration. 

Literacy Program

Tutoring is arranged for the student in the beginning stages of reading. The student will be assessed and results, as well as student goals, will be discussed. A student usually meets once a week with the volunteer tutor.

English as a second lanuage (ESL)

Instruction is available for students who are learning to speak, read and write English. Contact your nearest IWCC Center for information regarding classes or individualized instruction.

Basic Skills

Iowa Western assists adults who seek to improve their skills in reading, writing, and math. Adults can register for general instruction or specific skills programming directed towards specific outcomes, such as job-related keyboarding and measurement skills.

GED Preparation

For those who have not completed their high school education, instruction is available in preparing for the five GED tests:  Language Arts- Writing, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics and Language Arts-Reading. You may prepare for the exams by attending classes at one of our sites, If you qualify, studying online is another option to consider. GED-i online course will be available beginning January, 2011. Call the Council Bluffs Learning Center for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions about GED

GED Testing

Iowa Western administers GED testing at several IWCC locations in southwest Iowa. 

Computer Literacy

Keyboarding and basic computer instruction is available for the true beginner. Call 1-800-432-5852, ext. 3266 or 712-325-3266.

Call 1-800-432-5852, ext. 3266  Instruction is free!

Volunteer Program

If you, or someone you know, would like to volunteer to work with adult students on improving their reading skills or learning to speak, read and/or write English, please contact us at 1-800-432-5852, ext. 3266 or 712-325-3266. Volunteers may choose to give extra time and attention to students who attend regular classes or they may schedule individual sessions in Council Bluffs or another setting in Iowa Western’s seven-county service area.