North Carolina Colleges That Don't Require a Diploma or GED

Not having a high school diploma or GED does not have to stop you from pursuing higher education in North Carolina. Community colleges across the state offer adult education, workforce training, and career pathway programs that help students build academic skills while preparing for college or employment.

Keep reading as we highlight in-person and online colleges that don't require a high school diploma or GED in North Carolina, along with schools that provide Adult High School, High School Equivalency, workforce training, and other opportunities for adult learners. Whether your goal is to earn a high school credential, complete a workforce certificate, or prepare for a college degree, these programs can help you move forward.

Do North Carolina Colleges Accept Students Without a High School Diploma or GED?

Some North Carolina colleges accept students without a high school diploma or GED, although the available pathways vary by institution. Many community colleges offer Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, workforce training, continuing education, and career pathway programs that allow students to strengthen their academic skills before enrolling in college-level degree programs.

North Carolina's community colleges also participate in statewide College and Career Readiness programs that help adult learners earn a high school credential, prepare for employment, and transition into certificate or degree programs.

What Are North Carolina's Adult High School and High School Equivalency Programs? 

North Carolina's Adult High School (AHS) and High School Equivalency (HSE) programs help eligible adults earn a recognized high school credential through the North Carolina Community College System. Adult High School allows students to complete the coursework needed to earn an actual North Carolina high school diploma, while High School Equivalency programs prepare students to earn a state-recognized high school equivalency credential.

Many community colleges offer these programs through their College and Career Readiness departments alongside Adult Basic Education, English language acquisition, workforce training, and transition services. An advisor can help you determine which pathway best fits your educational background, career goals, and eligibility.

10 North Carolina Colleges That Don’t Require a High School Diploma or GED

The schools below are all institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Each offers opportunities for students without a high school diploma or GED through Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, College and Career Readiness, workforce training, or other programs that help students prepare for college and careers.

1. Central Piedmont Community College

Central Piedmont Community College is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, and offers several educational pathways for students who have not earned a high school diploma or GED. Through its College and Career Readiness programs, students can enroll in Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, workforce training, and academic support services that help them prepare for college-level coursework or employment.

The college offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as business, health care, information technology, public safety, and skilled trades. Central Piedmont Community College also provides a large selection of online courses and fully online degree and certificate programs, giving adult learners flexible options as they continue their education. Thanks to financial aid like the NC Next program, it’s one of the free online community colleges in North Carolina for eligible students.

2. Cape Fear Community College

Students without a high school diploma or GED can continue their education through Cape Fear Community College's College and Career Readiness programs. As one of the top colleges in Wilmington, North Carolina, the college provides Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, and workforce training that help learners build academic skills while preparing for college and in-demand careers.

Cape Fear Community College offers associate degrees and certificates in areas such as business, health sciences, marine technology, information technology, and construction trades. The college also features online and hybrid courses, along with several fully online degree and certificate programs, making it easier for students to balance school with work and family responsibilities.

3. Durham Technical Community College

Located in Durham, North Carolina, Durham Technical Community College supports students without a high school diploma or GED through its College and Career Readiness programs. Students can enroll in Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, English language learning, and workforce training that help them prepare for college-level coursework and employment.

The college offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as nursing, business, information technology, and biotechnology and is one of the best trade schools in North Carolina. Durham Technical Community College also provides online and hybrid courses, giving students flexible options as they work toward their educational and career goals.

4. Forsyth Technical Community College

Forsyth Technical Community College offers multiple pathways for students who have not completed a high school diploma or GED. Based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the college provides Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, career readiness services, and workforce development programs that support students as they transition into certificate and degree programs.

Students can pursue associate degrees and certificates in areas such as health sciences, business, cybersecurity, engineering technology, and advanced manufacturing. Forsyth Technical Community College also features online courses and fully online degree and certificate programs, making it a convenient option for adult learners throughout the region.

5. Guilford Technical Community College

Students without a high school diploma or GED can begin building their education through Guilford Technical Community College's College and Career Readiness programs. Located in Jamestown, North Carolina, the college connects learners with Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, workforce training, and transition services that help them prepare for college and long-term career success.

The college offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as business, aviation systems technology, health care, information technology, and skilled trades. Guilford Technical Community College also provides online and hybrid courses, allowing students to continue their education while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

6. Johnston Community College

Johnston Community College serves students from its campus in Smithfield, North Carolina, and offers educational opportunities for students who have not earned a high school diploma or GED. Through its College and Career Readiness programs, students can access Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, workforce training, and career services that support a successful transition into college-level coursework.

The college offers associate degrees and certificates in areas such as business, health sciences, information technology, agriculture, and skilled trades. Johnston Community College also provides online and hybrid courses, giving adult learners flexible options as they continue their education.

7. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

Students without a high school diploma or GED can continue their education through Rowan-Cabarrus Community College's College and Career Readiness programs. Based in Salisbury, North Carolina, the college provides Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, and workforce training that help students strengthen academic skills while preparing for college and employment.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as nursing, business, criminal justice, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. The college also features online and hybrid courses, along with several fully online degree and certificate programs, making it easier for students to balance school with work and family responsibilities.

8. Wake Technical Community College

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, Wake Technical Community College offers several pathways for students who have not completed a high school diploma or GED. Through its College and Career Readiness department, students can enroll in Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, English language learning, and workforce training while preparing to enter certificate or degree programs. It’s also known for being one of the community colleges that accepts a low GPA.

The college offers associate degrees and certificates in areas such as business, health sciences, cybersecurity, engineering technology, and skilled trades. Wake Technical Community College also provides one of the largest selections of online courses and fully online degree and certificate programs in the state, making it an excellent option for adult learners seeking flexibility.

9. Western Piedmont Community College

Western Piedmont Community College is located in Morganton, North Carolina, and supports students without a high school diploma or GED through its College and Career Readiness programs. Students can participate in Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, workforce training, and career readiness services that help them build the skills needed for college and employment.

The college offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as business, health sciences, information technology, manufacturing, and public safety. Western Piedmont Community College also provides online and hybrid courses, giving adult learners flexible options as they work toward a college credential.

10. Wilson Community College

Students without a high school diploma or GED can begin building their education through Wilson Community College's College and Career Readiness programs. Based in Wilson, North Carolina, the college connects learners with Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, workforce training, and transition services that support continued education and career advancement. It’s also one of the North Carolina colleges with academic forgiveness.

Wilson Community College offers associate degrees and certificates in areas such as nursing, business, agribusiness technology, information technology, and skilled trades. The college also features online and hybrid courses, making it easier for students to continue their education while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.   

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university. Because this ranking focuses on North Carolina colleges that serve students without a high school diploma or GED, we also evaluate:

• Accreditation: We prioritize colleges that are institutionally accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency, ensuring students receive a quality education and earn credentials that are widely recognized.
• Admissions flexibility: We give preference to schools that offer Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, College and Career Readiness, workforce training, continuing education, or other opportunities for students without a high school diploma or GED.
• Student support: Colleges earn higher marks for providing academic advising, tutoring, career services, adult learner resources, workforce development support, and transfer guidance that help students successfully move into certificate or degree programs.
• Affordability: We consider overall affordability, including access to financial aid, scholarships, workforce funding opportunities, and the lower tuition rates typically offered by North Carolina's public community colleges.

Learn more about our ranking methodology. 

How To Apply to College in North Carolina Without a Diploma or GED

Applying to college in North Carolina without a high school diploma or GED usually starts with choosing the right entry pathway. Depending on the school, you may begin through Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult Basic Education, College and Career Readiness, workforce training, or continuing education.

Contact the college’s admissions office or College and Career Readiness department before applying. An advisor can explain whether you should work toward a high school diploma, prepare for a high school equivalency exam, begin workforce training, or complete other steps before entering a certificate or degree program.

You may need to submit an application, provide information about your previous education, complete an academic assessment, or meet with a counselor. Ask when you can begin earning college credit and whether your pathway leads directly into a workforce certificate, associate degree, or transfer program.

Can You Get Financial Aid Without a Diploma or GED in North Carolina?

Some students without a high school diploma or GED may qualify for financial support, but eligibility depends on the program. Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, and other College and Career Readiness services may be free or offered at a low cost through participating North Carolina community colleges.

Federal financial aid may be available through an approved Ability-to-Benefit career pathway if the college participates and the student meets all FAFSA and federal eligibility requirements. Workforce grants, institutional scholarships, and local training funds may also help cover certain career programs.

Before enrolling, contact the college’s financial aid or workforce office and ask whether your program accepts FAFSA, participates in Ability-to-Benefit, or qualifies for state, institutional, or workforce funding. Not every adult education or noncredit program qualifies for federal aid, so confirm which tuition, testing, books, supplies, and credential fees are covered.

FAQs About North Carolina Colleges That Don’t Require a High School Diploma or GED

Not having a high school diploma or GED does not necessarily prevent you from continuing your education in North Carolina. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about admissions, Adult High School, High School Equivalency programs, and financial aid.

Can you go to college in North Carolina without a high school diploma or GED?

Some North Carolina colleges allow students without a high school diploma or GED to enroll in Adult High School, High School Equivalency preparation, workforce training, continuing education, or other approved programs. Depending on the college, students may also be able to transition into certificate or degree programs after meeting the school's admissions requirements.

Can North Carolina colleges help you get your GED?

Many North Carolina community colleges offer High School Equivalency preparation through their College and Career Readiness departments, making it possible to get your GED while building academic and career skills. Some colleges also offer Adult High School programs that allow eligible students to earn a North Carolina high school diploma instead of a high school equivalency credential.

Are there online colleges that don't require a high school diploma or GED?

Some North Carolina colleges offer online adult education, workforce training, and continuing education programs for students who have not yet earned a high school diploma or GED. However, most online degree programs require students to meet the college's admissions requirements before enrolling in college-level coursework.

What is the difference between Adult High School and High School Equivalency?

Adult High School allows eligible students to complete the coursework required to earn an actual North Carolina high school diploma. High School Equivalency programs prepare students to earn a state-recognized high school equivalency credential through an approved exam.

Can you get financial aid without a high school diploma or GED in North Carolina?

Eligible students enrolled in an approved Ability-to-Benefit career pathway may qualify for federal financial aid if they meet all other federal requirements. Additional assistance may also be available through workforce grants, institutional scholarships, Adult High School, or other College and Career Readiness programs, depending on the college and program.

Explore North Carolina Degree and Certificate Programs

Start your journey toward a college degree, even without a GED or diploma, by exploring the North Carolina schools featured on Learn.org. To find out more about admissions and enrollment, reach out to specific colleges individually.