GED and HiSET preparation, adult education classes, literacy tutoring, college programs for adult learners, and early childhood education across Maine. It is never too late to learn something new.
It is never too late to learn something new. Maine offers free and affordable education options for adults at every stage, from HiSET preparation and literacy tutoring to community college programs with free tuition for recent graduates. Portland Adult Education runs Maine's largest adult learning program, and New Ventures Maine offers free career planning classes statewide. Families with young children can access Head Start for free early childhood education. Call 211 to find education resources near you.
Maine Department of Education
Statewide adult education system offering free or low-cost classes in HiSET/GED preparation, English language learning, college readiness, workforce training, and enrichment through local programs in nearly every community.
Portland Public Schools
Maine's largest adult education program offers free HiSET preparation, ESL classes, college transition support, job skills training, and on-site HiSET testing.
Maine State Library
Free digital learning resources, online courses, eBooks, audiobooks, scholarly databases, and digital literacy training for all Maine residents. Online resources available 24/7.
Literacy Volunteers of Maine
Statewide network of 14 community-based affiliates providing free, confidential, one-on-one tutoring for adults who need help with reading, writing, math, and English language skills.
University of Maine at Augusta
Maine's adult-friendly public university offering online and on-campus degree programs for working adults, including the ATLaS support program and adult degree completion scholarships.
Maine Community College System
Seven community colleges offering affordable degree and certificate programs, workforce training, and a free tuition scholarship for Maine residents who graduated high school in 2023-2025.
New Ventures Maine / University of Maine at Augusta
Free classes and coaching to help adults explore career options, plan for education, develop job search skills, and make career transitions. Available online and at seven locations statewide.
Maine Department of Education / Local Grantees
Free early childhood education, health screenings, nutrition services, and family support for income-eligible children from birth to age 5 and pregnant women across Maine.
Bangor Adult Education
Provides free classes for high school completion, HiSET preparation, college readiness, literacy, math, digital skills, and ESL for adults in the Bangor area.
Lewiston Adult Education
Free HiSET testing, ESL classes, and adult learning programs in the Lewiston-Auburn area. Computer-based testing center available.
Biddeford Adult Education
Adult education center offering HiSET prep, ESL classes, healthcare training certificates, workforce skills programs, and enrichment courses in the Biddeford-Saco area.
Literacy Volunteers of Bangor
Free one-on-one adult literacy and English language tutoring for greater Bangor area residents. Walk-ins welcome or by appointment.