Earn Your High School Equivalency (HSE) at RPCC
River Parishes Community College is committed to helping you achieve your High School Equivalency (HSE) — a recognized alternative to a traditional high school diploma. Earning your HSE opens the door to employment opportunities, college enrollment, and career training programs.
You must be at least 16 years old to enroll in the Adult Education program.
RPCC offers three pathways to help you complete your HSE:
1. HiSET Exam Pathway
(Required for all students under age 18)
The HiSET® exam is a nationally recognized high school equivalency test made up of five subject areas:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
This option is best suited for students who are comfortable preparing independently or through classroom instruction and then passing a standardized test.
Note: The HiSET is a fee-based test.
2. Accuplacer Exam Pathway
The Accuplacer® is another testing-based option to earn your high school equivalency. This exam includes two subject areas:
- Writing
- Math
This pathway may be more appropriate for students who prefer a computer-based assessment or who have previously tested in a college setting.
Note: The Accuplacer is also a fee-based test.
3. Integrated Career Pathways
This option allows you to co-enroll in Adult Education and a career pathway program at the same time. You’ll work toward your HSE while earning college credit in a high-demand career field. This pathway combines academic support with hands-on workforce training—no high-stakes testing required.
Available Technical Programs:
- A/C & Refrigeration
- Business Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Healthcare Access Specialist
- Industrial Maintenance (Millwright)
- Instrumentation & Electrical Technology
- Medical Assistant
- Welding
Note: Program availability varies by campus.
This pathway does not require the HiSET or Accuplacer; however, students must meet minimum Reading, English, and Math skill levels.
Orientation
All new students must attend a two-day orientation before beginning the program. Orientation sessions are offered during the day and evening to accommodate your schedule.
- Daytime Orientation: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (all locations except Westbank)
- Evening Orientation: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (all locations, including Westbank)
Please bring a valid photo ID and plan to attend both days of your selected session.
Upcoming Orientation Dates
2025
- July 8 & 10
- July 22 & 24
- August 12 & 14
- August 26 & 28
- September 9 & 11
- September 23 & 25
- October 14 & 16
- October 28 & 30
- November 11 & 13
- December 9 & 11
2026
- January 13 & 15
- January 27 & 29
- February 10 & 12
- February 24 & 26
- March 10 & 12
- March 24 & 26
- April 14 & 16
- April 28 & 30
- May 12 & 14
All dates are subject to change.
You can sign up for an upcoming orientation session below. A reminder will be sent to your email ahead of the event.
RPCC looks forward to helping you take the next step in your educational journey!
Graduation Ceremony
All students who complete any HSE pathway are invited to walk in RPCC’s annual graduation ceremony in May—a moment to celebrate your hard work and future success.
Enrollment Requirements
To enroll in the Adult Education program, please provide the following:
- Valid photo ID
- Minors (ages 16–17) must submit:
- A completed and signed Waiver Request and Process for Exiting School form from the last school district attended
- A commitment to 20 hours of instruction per week (at least 15 hours must be in person)
- Participation in the HiSET pathway (required per LCTCS policy)
- Homeschooled students must submit an approval letter dated within the last 12 months, verifying at least 6 months of enrollment
Need Help Paying for What's Next?
RPCC offers scholarships through WorkReady U Adult Education.
Take the next step
Accomplish your educational and professional goals. Take the next step and apply to join the River Parishes Community College family.
Campus Locations
Gonzales Campus
925 W. Edenborne Parkway
Gonzales, LA. 70737
Reserve Campus
181 Regala Park Road
Reserve, LA. 70084
St. Charles Campus
13145 HWY 90
Boutte, LA. 70039
Westside Campus
25250 Tenant Road
Plaquemine, LA. 70764
Donaldsonville High School
Westbank Workforce Training Center
100 Tiger Drive
Donaldsonville, LA. 70346
Skilled Careers Start Here
At River Parishes Community College (RPCC), we’re proud to offer hands-on programs that align directly with the needs of this expanding workforce. Whether you're just starting out or ready to level up your career, RPCC is your pathway to opportunity.
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