Top 20 High School Diploma for Adults Online in 2023

Are you an adult who wants to earn your high school diploma online? Whether you need it for a job, college, or personal satisfaction, we can help you achieve your goal. Our accredited online program offers flexible schedules, affordable tuition, and personalized support. Enroll today and get started on your future!

A high school diploma is more than just a piece of paper. It is a credential that can open many doors for you in life, such as higher education, better jobs, and increased income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings of workers with a high school diploma were $781 in 2020, compared to $592 for those without a diploma. Moreover, the unemployment rate for those with a high school diploma was 7.8%, while it was 10.8% for those without one.

If you are an adult who did not finish high school, you may think that it is too late to get your diploma. However, this is not true. There are many online high school diploma programs for adults that can help you achieve your educational goals and dreams. Online high school diploma programs for adults are flexible, convenient, and affordable. You can study at your own pace, schedule, and location, without having to attend classes in person or quit your job. You can also choose from a variety of accredited and reputable online schools that offer high-quality courses and support services.

In this article, we will introduce you to the top 20 online high school diploma programs for adults that you can enroll in 2023. We will also provide you with some tips on how to choose the best online high school diploma program for your needs and preferences.

What are the Benefits of Online High School Diploma Programs for Adults?

Online high school diploma programs for adults offer many benefits over traditional or alternative options, such as:

Flexibility:

You can study whenever and wherever you want, as long as you have access to a computer and an internet connection. You can also adjust your learning pace and style according to your abilities and goals.

Convenience:

You do not have to commute to a physical campus or follow a fixed schedule. You can study from the comfort of your home or office, or even while traveling or working.

Affordability:

Online high school diploma programs for adults are usually cheaper than in-person ones, as they do not require tuition fees, transportation costs, or other expenses. Some online schools even offer free or low-cost programs for eligible students.

Accreditation:

Online high school diploma programs for adults are accredited by recognized agencies or organizations that ensure the quality and validity of the education they provide. Accreditation also means that your diploma will be accepted by colleges, employers, and other institutions.

Support:

Online high school diploma programs for adults provide various support services to help you succeed in your studies, such as academic advisors, tutors, mentors, counselors, and peer groups. You can also interact with your instructors and classmates through online platforms, such as email, chat, forums, or video calls.

How to Choose the Best Online High School Diploma Program for Adults?

Choosing the best online high school diploma program for adults can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider, such as:

Your goals:

What do you want to achieve with your diploma? Do you want to pursue higher education, advance your career, or simply improve your knowledge and skills? Your goals will determine what kind of courses and curriculum you need to look for in an online school.

Your preferences:

What kind of learning environment do you prefer? Do you like self-paced or instructor-led courses? Do you prefer synchronous or asynchronous learning? Do you enjoy interactive or independent learning? Your preferences will influence how comfortable and motivated you are in an online school.

Your budget:

How much can you afford to spend on your education? Do you qualify for any financial aid or scholarships? Your budget will limit your choices of online schools and programs.

Your availability:

How much time can you dedicate to your studies? Do you have any other commitments or responsibilities that may interfere with your learning? Your availability will affect how fast and how well you can complete your online program.

To help you choose the best online high school diploma program for adults, we recommend that you do some research on the following aspects of each online school:

Accreditation:

Make sure that the online school is accredited by a reputable agency or organization that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the online school meets the standards of quality and credibility in education. It also enables you to transfer credits, apply for financial aid, and enroll in college or university.

Reputation:

Check the online school’s reputation and track record in providing online education. Look for reviews, testimonials, ratings, rankings, awards, or recognitions from students, alumni, employers, or experts. You can also contact the online school directly and ask for references or evidence of their success and satisfaction rates.

Curriculum:

Review the online school’s curriculum and course offerings. Make sure that they align with your goals and interests, and that they cover the subjects and skills that you need to learn. You can also compare the curriculum with other online schools or with your state’s requirements for high school graduation.

Support:

Find out what kind of support services the online school provides to its students. Look for academic advisors, tutors, mentors, counselors, and peer groups that can help you with your academic, personal, and professional needs. You can also check how accessible and responsive the online school’s staff and faculty are, and how easy it is to communicate with them.

Cost:

Compare the cost of the online school’s program with your budget and financial situation. Consider the tuition fees, enrollment fees, materials fees, technology fees, or other charges that may apply. You can also look for financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, loans, or payment plans that the online school offers or accepts.

Top 20 Online High School Diploma Programs for Adults in 2023

Based on our research and analysis, we have compiled a list of the top 20 online high school diploma programs for adults that you can enroll in 2023. We have ranked them according to their accreditation, reputation, curriculum, support, and cost. Here are our picks:

1. Stanford Online High School

Stanford Online High School is one of the most prestigious and rigorous online high school diploma programs for adults in the world. It is affiliated with Stanford University, one of the top-ranked universities in the US and globally. It offers a challenging and engaging curriculum that covers core subjects as well as advanced courses in humanities, sciences, mathematics, languages, arts, and more. It also provides opportunities for students to conduct independent research, participate in online seminars and clubs, and interact with peers and instructors from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Stanford Online High School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). It costs $24,000 per year for full-time students and $7,200 per course for part-time students.

2. James Madison High School

James Madison High School is a popular and affordable online high school diploma program for adults that offers two tracks: general and college prep. The general track requires 23 credits and covers basic subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, and electives. The college prep track requires 24 credits and includes additional courses in foreign languages, advanced math, and science. Both tracks are aligned with the Common Core State Standards and prepare students for college or career success. James Madison High School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It costs $1,599 for full-time students and $249 per course for part-time students.

3. The University of Nebraska High School

The University of Nebraska High School is a well-established and respected online high school diploma program for adults that has been operating since 1929. It offers over 100 courses in various subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, languages, arts, health, business, technology, and more. It also offers AP courses and dual enrollment courses that allow students to earn college credits while completing their high school diploma. The University of Nebraska High School is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE). It costs $250 per course for full-time students and $250 per course for part-time students.

4. Penn Foster

Penn Foster is a leading online education provider that offers a flexible and self-paced online high school diploma program for adults. It allows students to transfer previous credits from other accredited schools or earn credits through life experience portfolios or standardized tests. It also offers various pathways to customize their learning experience according to their interests and goals, such as academic track, career track, early college track, or elective track. Penn Foster is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools (MSCSS) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It costs $1,299 for full-time students and $59 per month for part-time students.

5. The Keystone School

The Keystone School is a reputable online high school diploma program for adults that offers two options: standard and honors. The standard option requires 21 credits and covers essential subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, and electives. The honors option requires 22 credits and includes additional courses in foreign languages, advanced math, and science. Both options are aligned with the Common Core State Standards and prepare students for college or career readiness. The Keystone School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and the Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC). It costs $1,899 for full-time students and $399 per course for part-time students.

6. Laurel Springs School

Laurel Springs School is a renowned online high school diploma program for adults that offers a personalized and holistic approach to education. It provides individualized academic plans, learning style assessments, and academic counseling for each student. It also offers a wide range of courses in core subjects, electives, honors, AP, dual enrollment, and gifted and talented programs. It also fosters a supportive and interactive online community through clubs, activities, events, and social media. Laurel Springs School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI). It costs $3,900 per year for full-time students and $1,080 per course for part-time students.

7. Alabama Virtual Academy

Alabama Virtual Academy is a free online public high school diploma program for adults who reside in Alabama. It offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that covers core subjects as well as electives in arts, languages, technology, career exploration, and more. It also provides state-certified teachers, academic advisors, counselors, and mentors to support students throughout their learning journey. Alabama Virtual Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE). It costs $0 for full-time students.

8. Pinnacle Charter High School

Pinnacle Charter High School is a free online public high school diploma program for adults who reside in Colorado. It offers a flexible and customized curriculum that allows students to choose from various courses in core subjects, electives, AP, dual enrollment, career pathways, and more. It also provides certified teachers, tutors, counselors, coaches, and mentors to guide students throughout their learning process. Pinnacle Charter High School is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and the Colorado Department of Education (CDE). It costs $0 for full-time students.

9. Excel High School

Excel High School is a convenient and affordable online high school diploma program for adults that offers three options: standard, adult fast track, and honors. The standard option requires 21.5 credits and covers basic subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, health, physical education, and electives. The adult fast track option requires 18 credits and allows students to transfer previous credits or earn credits through life experience or standardized tests. The honors option requires 24 credits and includes additional courses in foreign languages, advanced math, science, and humanities. Excel High School is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and the AdvancED Accreditation Commission (AdvancED). It costs $1,399 for full-time students and $299 per course for part-time students.

10. Indiana University High School

Indiana University High School is a prestigious online high school diploma program for adults that is affiliated with Indiana University Bloomington, one of the top public universities in the US. It offers a challenging and diverse curriculum that covers core subjects as well as electives in arts, languages, humanities, sciences, mathematics, business, technology, health sciences, and more. It also offers AP courses and dual credit courses that allow students to earn college credits while completing their high school diploma. Indiana University High School is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). It costs $250 per course for full-time students and $250 per course for part-time students.

11. Smart Schools

Smart Schools is a flexible online high school diploma program for adults that offers a tailored learning plan and an award-winning online learning platform. It allows students to transfer previous credits from other accredited schools or earn credits through life experience portfolios or standardized tests. It also offers various courses and electives that suit different interests and goals, such as academic track, career track, early college track, or elective track. Smart Schools is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools (MSCSS) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It costs $1, 299 for full-time students and $59 per month for part-time students.

12. Liberty University Online Academy

Liberty University Online Academy is a Christian online high school diploma program for adults that offers a biblical worldview and a faith-based curriculum. It covers core subjects as well as electives in arts, languages, humanities, sciences, mathematics, business, technology, health sciences, and more. It also offers honors courses and dual enrollment courses that allow students to earn college credits from Liberty University while completing their high school diploma. Liberty University Online Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). It costs $2,495 per year for full-time students and $375 per course for part-time students.

13. American School

American School is a pioneer and leader in online high school diploma programs for adults that has been operating since 1897. It offers two options: general and college preparatory. The general option requires 18 units and covers basic subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, and electives. The college preparatory option requires 20 units and includes additional courses in foreign languages, advanced math, science, and humanities. Both options are aligned with the Common Core State Standards and prepare students for college or career success. American School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It costs $900 per year for full-time students and $225 per course for part-time students.

14. K12

K12 is a free online public high school diploma program for adults that is available in most states in the US. It offers a comprehensive and customized curriculum that covers core subjects as well as electives in arts, languages, technology, career exploration, and more. It also provides state-certified teachers, academic advisors, counselors, and mentors to support students throughout their learning journey. K12 is accredited by the AdvancED Accreditation Commission (AdvancED) and various regional accrediting agencies depending on the state. It costs $0 for full-time students.

15. Ashworth College

Ashworth College is a convenient and affordable online high school diploma program for adults that offers two options: general and career. The general option requires 23 credits and covers essential subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, health, physical education, and electives. The career option requires 22 credits and includes additional courses in career-focused areas such as healthcare, business, technology, criminal justice, education, or trades. Both options are aligned with the Common Core State Standards and prepare students for college or career readiness. Ashworth College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It costs $1,299 for full-time students and $59 per month for part-time students.

16. North Dakota Center for Distance Education

North Dakota Center for Distance Education is a reliable online high school diploma program for adults that offers over 300 courses in various subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, languages, arts, business, technology, health, and more. It also offers AP courses and dual credit courses that allow students to earn college credits while completing their high school diploma. North Dakota Center for Distance Education is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI). It costs $250 per course for full-time students and $250 per course for part-time students.

17. International Virtual Learning Academy

International Virtual Learning Academy is a global online high school diploma program for adults that offers a flexible and personalized learning experience. It allows students to choose from various courses and electives in core subjects, honors, AP, dual enrollment, career pathways, and more. It also provides certified teachers, academic coaches, counselors, and tutors to assist students throughout their learning process. International Virtual Learning Academy is accredited by the AdvancED Accreditation Commission (AdvancED) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). It costs $2, 400 per year for full-time students and $600 per course for part-time students.

18. Park City Independent

Park City Independent is a user-friendly online high school diploma program for adults that offers a customized and self-paced curriculum. It allows students to transfer previous credits from other accredited schools or earn credits through life experience portfolios or standardized tests. It also offers various courses and electives that suit different interests and goals, such as academic track, career track, early college track, or elective track. Park City Independent is accredited by the Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC) and the AdvancED Accreditation Commission (AdvancED). It costs $1, 450 for full-time students and $375 per course for part-time students.

19. Franklin Virtual High School

Franklin Virtual High School is a modern online high school diploma program for adults that offers a dynamic and interactive curriculum. It covers core subjects as well as electives in arts, languages, humanities, sciences, mathematics, business, technology, health sciences, and more. It also offers AP courses and dual enrollment courses that allow students to earn college credits while completing their high school diploma. Franklin Virtual High School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It costs $1,299 for full-time students and $249 per course for part-time students.

20. Brigham Young University Independent Study

Brigham Young University Independent Study is a reputable online high school diploma program for adults that is affiliated with Brigham Young University, one of the top private universities in the US. It offers a challenging and diverse curriculum that covers core subjects as well as electives in arts, languages, humanities, sciences, mathematics, business, technology, health sciences, and more. It also offers honors courses and dual enrollment courses that allow students to earn college credits from Brigham Young University while completing their high school diploma. Brigham Young University Independent Study is accredited by the Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC) and the AdvancED Accreditation Commission (AdvancED). It costs $156 per course for full-time students and $156 per course for part-time students.

Conclusion

Earning a high school diploma online is a great option for adults who want to improve their education, career, or personal goals. Online high school diploma programs for adults offer many benefits such as flexibility, convenience, affordability, and variety. However, not all online high school diploma programs for adults are of equal quality or suitability. Therefore, it is important to do your research and compare different programs before choosing one that meets your needs and expectations.

We hope that this article has helped you learn more about the top 20 online high school diploma programs for adults in 2023. These programs are accredited, reputable, and diverse, and they can help you achieve your high school diploma online in a way that works best for you. Whether you want to pursue higher education, advance your career, or enrich your life, earning a high school diploma online can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

FAQs

What are the benefits of earning a high school diploma online?

Some of the benefits of earning a high school diploma online are:

You can study at your own pace, schedule, and location, without having to attend classes in person or follow a fixed curriculum.
You can choose from a wide range of courses and electives that match your interests and goals, such as college preparation, career readiness, or personal enrichment.
You can save time and money by avoiding transportation costs, tuition fees, textbooks, uniforms, and other expenses associated with traditional schools.
You can earn a high school diploma that is accredited by reputable agencies and recognized by employers and colleges as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma.

What are the requirements for earning a high school diploma online?

The requirements for earning a high school diploma online vary depending on the program you choose. However, some of the common requirements are:

You must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if you are under 18.
You must have access to a computer and an internet connection.
You must complete a certain number of credits or courses in core subjects and electives.
You must pass the required exams or assessments.
You must pay the required fees or tuition.

How long does it take to earn a high school diploma online?

The time it takes to earn a high school diploma online depends on several factors such as your previous education level, your current knowledge and skills, your learning style and pace, your availability and commitment, and the program you choose. However, some of the general estimates are:

If you have completed some high school credits or courses before, you may be able to transfer them to your online program and reduce the time it takes to earn your diploma.
If you have relevant life or work experience, you may be able to earn credits through portfolios or standardized tests and shorten the time it takes to earn your diploma.
If you enroll in a full-time program and take four or five courses per semester, you may be able to earn your diploma in one or two years.
If you enroll in a part-time program and take one or two courses per semester, you may be able to earn your diploma in three or four years.

How much does it cost to earn a high school diploma online?

The cost of earning a high school diploma online varies depending on the program you choose. However, some of the general estimates are:

Learn More: What is the Value of Post Graduate Diploma

If you enroll in a free online public high school diploma program that is available in your state, you may be able to earn your diploma at no cost.
If you enroll in a private online high school diploma program that charges a flat fee or a monthly fee, you may be able to earn your diploma for $1,000 to $3,000.
If you enroll in a private online high school diploma program that charges a per-course fee, you may be able to earn your diploma for $200 to $500 per course.

How can I choose the best online high school diploma program for me?

Choosing the best online high school diploma program for you depends on your personal preferences, needs, and goals. However, some of the factors that you may want to consider are:

Accreditation: You should choose a program that is accredited by a reputable agency and recognized by employers and colleges as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma.
Curriculum: You should choose a program that offers a curriculum that matches your interests and goals, such as academic track, career track, early college track, or elective track.
Flexibility: You should choose a program that offers a flexibility that suits your schedule and learning style, such as self-paced, instructor-led, or hybrid.
Support: You should choose a program that offers a support that helps you succeed in your learning journey, such as teachers, tutors, counselors, coaches, or mentors.
Reputation: You should choose a program that has a reputation for providing high-quality education and student satisfaction, such as reviews, ratings, testimonials, or awards.

What are the challenges of earning a high school diploma online?

Earning a high school diploma online is not without its challenges. Some of the challenges that you may face are:

Motivation: You may find it hard to stay motivated and focused on your studies without the structure and guidance of a traditional school environment.
Discipline: You may find it difficult to manage your time and balance your responsibilities without the deadlines and expectations of a traditional school schedule.
Isolation: You may feel lonely or disconnected from your peers and instructors without the social interaction and feedback of a traditional school community.
Technology: You may encounter technical issues or glitches that may affect your access or performance in your online courses.

However, these challenges can be overcome with some strategies and tips, such as:

Setting realistic and specific goals and tracking your progress and achievements.
Creating a regular and consistent study routine and sticking to it.
Seeking help and support from your online teachers, tutors, counselors, coaches, mentors, or peers when you need it.
Joining online clubs, activities, events, or social media platforms to connect with other online students and share your experiences and insights.
Having a reliable computer and internet connection and troubleshooting any problems that may arise.