Earn Your High School Diploma Online

The San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) offers a fully accredited online high school diploma program to help adults achieve their educational and career goals: Excel Adult High School. The program is available to library cardholders, aged 19 and older, who live in San Francisco. It is designed to be flexible, accessible, and supportive, allowing students to complete their high school education at their own pace.

For previously enrolled students, we still offer Career Online High School (COHS). We are not accepting new enrollments into this program through SFPL. We encourage existing students to follow this link for the COHS login page.

Online High School Program: Excel Adult High School

  • Overview: Excel Adult High School is SFPL's new online high school program that provides adults the chance to earn a fully accredited high school diploma online. The program offers coursework in core subjects along with a variety of electives to suit your interests and career goals.
  • Eligibility: Open to San Francisco residents and SFPL cardholders aged 19 and older.
  • Support: The success coaching/counseling team will assist with course selection and college planning or career guidance.
  • Completion Timeline: Students can complete the program in 24 months or less.

Enrollment Process:

  1. Online Readiness Survey: Begin by completing an online application to assess your readiness for the program. Visit the Excel Login page and select "Get Started".
  2. Prerequisite Course: Once your application is reviewed, you'll receive instructions via email to begin your prerequisite course to ensure online learning is a good fit for you. You have 2 weeks to complete your prerequisite course.
  3. Orientation Session: After completing the prerequisite course, you’ll be contacted to schedule an onboarding chat with library staff to finalize your enrollment.
  4. Complete Scholarship Paperwork: Following your chat and after your scholarship paperwork is completed you will start a 30-day probationary period.
  5. Welcome Aboard: After successful completion of your 30-day probationary period, you will be fully enrolled.

Get Started with Excel:
Apply Now

Log In to Your Excel Account:
Log In Here

Program Resources and Support

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What is the difference between a GED and a high school diploma?
A GED is a test you can take to show that you have the same knowledge as someone who finished high school. It’s called a high school equivalency credential. 
A diploma shows that you have completed high school classes in core subjects (like math, English, and science) and electives. It proves you graduated from high school.
The biggest difference is the time it takes. A GED is a test you can prepare for in less than a year, and you can take it any time after age 16 in most states. A diploma takes more time because you need to complete all required classes. Our programs allow you to obtain a high school diploma once you finish.
If you are interested in obtaining your GED, the library offers helpful resources:

Why Earn Your High School Diploma with SFPL?

  • Flexible online learning tailored to your schedule
  • Personalized support from academic coaches
  • A path to new career opportunities and personal achievement

Do I need to buy textbooks?
No, you don't need to buy textbooks. All your reading, quizzes, and tests are online.

What if I need help?
Excel Success Coaches are there to answer your questions and give you study tips. You are not alone—help is available when you need it.

Are the courses available in other languages?
No. You will need a basic understanding of English to join the program.

  • Excel Adult High School: This program includes tools that translate lessons into different major languages while you study.

What if I have an IEP (Individual Educational Plan)?
Program content is accessible and can be read aloud, ensuring support for learners with accommodations. Once enrolled, you can connect with a success coach for additional information and support.

What if I don't have internet or a computer?
You should expect to spend 8-10 hours online each week on your classes. If you don’t have internet or a computer at home:

Contact Us: For questions about the online high school diploma program, email us at OnlineHS@sfpl.org or call 415-557-4388.