National External Diploma Program (NEDP)

You must be 18 or older to enroll in the NEDP program in the state of Maryland. If you are 18, you must obtain a waiver from your school district prior to registering.

F1 or J1 visa holders are not eligible to participate in this program.

1. Sign up to learn about the program to determine if the NEDP program is for you.
2. Schedule the reading and math qualifying tests and complete a writing sample.
3. Meet with an advisor to discuss your test results and determine if the NEDP program is for you.
4. Students will be assigned to an advisor, whom you will meet with regularly.
5. Begin working on the competencies assigned.
6. Once you have completed and passed all eight competencies, you will receive a Maryland high school diploma and have the option to walk in HCC’s commencement ceremony.

The program costs a total of $200, paid in two payments of $100 at each key phase.

The first charge is after students successfully demonstrate qualifying scores on the math and reading tests (there is no charge for those tests) and enter the “Diagnostics” phase. The second charge is when students complete all the elements of the “Diagnostics” phase and enter the “Assessment” phase.

Regardless of how long it takes you to complete the program — whether months or years — there are no additional charges as long as you consistently work on the modules and meet with your advisor regularly.

How long does it take to complete the NEDP?

The NEDP program involves self-study and follows a student’s own schedule and pace. Students must finish and pass 8 modules to complete the program while meeting with their advisor regularly. A good rule of thumb is if you work 10 hours per week on the modules and meet regularly with your advisor, it will take a student an average of a year to complete the program.

How often is the NEDP offered?

NEDP admissions are rolling. Students can enroll anytime throughout the year upon earning qualifying scores in the math and reading placement tests.

Where do students meet with an advisor?

Students complete most of the work independently. Advisor meetings can take place online or in person at the Hickory Ridge building (5075 Campus Drive, Columbia, MD 21044) or some other mutually agreeable location like a library.