What Is the Difference Between ABE and GED®?
With a wide array of adult education classes available at Broward Community Schools in Florida, there’s something for nearly everyone. But that might also leave you wondering if you’re making the right choice, especially if you’re trying to decide between our ABE and GED® classes.
Are they similar? How are they different? And which one’s right for you? Let’s find some answers!
What Are GED® Classes?
GED® stands for General Educational Development and is equivalent to a high school diploma. GED® classes are a way to sharpen skills you may have had once but have fallen off over the years because you didn’t use them. They’re also a way to pick up skills that you missed because your schooling was interrupted.
Most importantly, a GED® assumes that you’re coming to class with certain basics mostly taken care of. Your reading comprehension is good, but your math is rusty; conversely, you may be a math whiz, but history was never your strong suit. GED® classes help you fill in the gaps so that you can hit the ground running when it’s time for your test.

What Are ABE Classes?
ABE, or Adult Basic Education, caters to students with subject mastery at or below an eighth-grade level. Unlike GED® students, ABE learners are going back to basics in mathematics, reading, and writing.
What Do ABE Programs Include?
Adult Basic Education (ABE) programs are designed to enhance foundational skills, increase subject knowledge, and prepare adults for various personal and educational goals, such as transitioning to higher education or passing the U.S. citizenship exam.
These programs often focus on:
- English as a Second Language: Classes tailored for non-native English speakers to improve communication and comprehension.
- Family Literacy: Programs aimed at helping adults support their children’s education while enhancing their own skills.
- Citizenship Preparation: Resources and instruction to help participants prepare for the U.S. citizenship test.
- High School Equivalency Preparation: Courses to help adults work toward earning their high school equivalency diploma.
- GED Preparation®: Comprehensive support for individuals aiming to pass the GED® test and advance their education or career.
These programs provide essential tools and guidance, empowering adults to achieve their academic and personal aspirations.
How Do I Know Which Classes I Need?
Good news: you don’t have to guess. You will be tested on several subjects, so you’re matched to the classes right for your needs. This will lead you along a path that gets you where you want to be by ensuring you have the tools to make progress without becoming frustrated.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Broward Community Schools today to speak with an enrollment advisor. They’ll guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you start your educational journey with confidence.
I Have Other Questions. Now What?
Whether you’re seeking a GED® testing center near you or have queries about adult education classes, the answers are just a click or a call away. Connect with an enrollment advisor at Broward Community Schools in Florida. They can discuss your background, goals, and schedule, helping you customize a study plan that aligns with your aspirations. Contact Broward Community Schools today and take the first step towards your educational journey.
How do I find a GED testing center near me?
Are there additional resources for ABE or GED students (like tutoring)?
Can I balance these classes with a full-time job or other commitments?
Absolutely! Our programs are designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate students with busy schedules. We offer classes that allow you to progress at your own pace, making it easier to balance work, family, and other responsibilities while achieving your educational goals.
Are the classes offered in-person, online, or in a hybrid format?
We understand that every student has different needs, so we offer multiple learning formats. Our classes are available in-person at several of our community school locations, and we also provide online options to fit your lifestyle. Whether you prefer to learn in a classroom or from the comfort of your home, we have an option for you.
What qualifications do I need to start GED classes?
GED ®To enroll in our GED preparation classes, you need to be at least 18 years old and not currently enrolled in high school. If you’re 16 or 17, you may still be eligible with additional requirements, such as parental consent. Contact usGED ® to discuss your situation, and we’ll help you get started on your path to success.