National External Diploma Program (NEDP)
and Project Achieve
QSAC (Quality Services for the Autism Community) is now a National External Diploma Program (NEDP) agency approved by both NEDP/CASAS and the New York State Education Department's High School Equivalency Office.
Effective March 1, 2021: At this time, QSAC is only able to accept applications for the NEDP for people who live in New York City or on Long Island. Proof of residency may be requested. In addition, all diagnostic testing (Reading, Math, and Writing) must be completed in-person at QSAC's Manhattan location (253 West 35th Street).
Looking for a different way to earn your high school diploma?
The National External Diploma Program® (NEDP) could be for you!
Have you ever:
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Opened a bank account?
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Interviewed for a job?
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Compared two different products?
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Owned or rented a home?
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Looked for information online?
Consider NEDP’s innovative approach. Use the skills you’ve gained from life and work experience to demonstrate your reading, writing and math high school level skills. This web-based program for adults and out-of-school youth offers flexibility to earn your diploma even if you are employed full time, enrolled in job training, or have other commitments. The NEDP program can be completed in 6 to 12 months.
Work at home, the library, or wherever you have a computer
You will work through online activities and with an assessor to complete your program. You have multiple opportunities to demonstrate your mastery of academic skills in core subject areas. The NEDP is aligned with the college and career readiness standards.
NEDP + Project Achieve
With support from the Heckscher Foundation, QSAC is able to offer Project Achieve. This program assigns all QSAC NEDP students to an Achieve Counselor who provides one-on-one support and tutoring to help you prepare for the NEDP assessments and performance tasks based on your unique learning needs. The Achieve Counselor will also help you develop your post-NEDP career and/or academic plans. This support program is only available for New York City residents from any of the five boroughs who are 26 years old or younger.
The web-based NEDP system contains rigorous performance tasks:

Frequently asked questions
What are some "fast" facts about the NEDP program?
What is the difference between NEDP and TASC?
The TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) is a national test measuring high school education standards, with 5 subtests (math, reading, writing, science, and social studies). It is usually taken over a period of 2 days and takes approximately 8 ½ hours to complete. Many students prepare for the TASC by attending classes until their instructor feels they are ready to take the test.
Who is eligible for the NEDP program?
New York State adults and out-of-school youth without a high school diploma who are 18 and older, and pass CASAS and TABE diagnostic tests at a 9th grade level qualify for NEDP.
How will I demonstrate the skills I have in the NEDP?
Can my job and home experience help satisfy the requirements?
Will I get a "real" diploma and can I use it to go to college?
Yes! The New York State Education Department (NYSED) will issue the diploma. You may then apply to any college, just like any other high school graduate. Remember, colleges have varying admissions standards to which all applicants must adhere, regardless of where they obtain their diploma.
How long does it take to complete the NEDP?
Most participants complete the program in approximately six (6) months. Your skill level and the amount of time you can devote to the program determine the length of time needed to finish.
How is the NEDP different from a traditional high school?
What are the stages of the NEDP program?
How can I apply for the NEDP program at QSAC?
The first step to apply for the NEDP program at QSAC is to request an application by emailing nedp@qsac.com.