Penn Night School

graduation balloons in the foreground with graduates on stagae in the background

Earn Your High School Diploma at Penn Night School

It’s never too late to finish what you started!

Penn High School offers a FREE pathway to earn accredited high school diploma for residents of South Bend, Mishawaka, Granger, Elkhart, and surrounding communities.

Penn Night School offers eligible Indiana residents ages 18–22 a FREE opportunity to earn a Penn High School diploma through flexible online and in-person coursework.

Penn Night School helps students complete their high school education while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

Whether your goal is to advance your career, attend college, enter the military, or achieve a personal milestone, Penn Night School can help you take the next step toward a brighter future.

A Night School graduate posing with his Valedictorian plaque.Why Earn a High School Diploma Instead of a GED?

A high school diploma is more than a credential. It’s an investment in yourself and your future.

Unlike a GED or HiSET, which certifies high school equivalency through testing, Penn Night School allows students to earn an accredited high school diploma by completing the coursework and credits required for graduation.

Benefits of Earning Your Penn High School Diploma

  • Expand Your Career Opportunities: A high school diploma can help you qualify for more jobs, increase your earning potential, and pursue career advancement.
  • Open Doors to Higher Education: Earn a diploma recognized by colleges, universities, technical schools, and apprenticeship programs.
  • Build on Your Previous Success: Already earned high school credits? Eligible credits from your previous school experience may count toward your diploma, helping you graduate sooner.
  • Learn Through Coursework: Instead of preparing for a single high school equivalency exam (GED/HiSET), complete the high school courses and credits needed to earn your diploma.
  • Explore Military Opportunities: A traditional high school diploma generally qualifies graduates for Tier 1 educational status in military recruiting, potentially expanding enlistment opportunities.
  • Achieve a Personal Milestone: Whether it’s been a few years since you attended high school or you’re ready for a fresh start, earning your diploma is an accomplishment worth celebrating.

Flexible Learning Options

A woman and a child holding bouquets of flowers.Penn Night School understands that students have responsibilities beyond the classroom. That’s why the program offers flexible learning options designed to help students balance their education with work and family commitments.

Penn Night School Program Features:

  • Evening classes: Monday–Thursday, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
  • Online and in-person coursework options
  • Teacher support to help students successfully complete their coursework
  • Transfer of eligible previously earned high school credits
  • Individualized completion timelines based on remaining graduation requirements

Students typically complete the program in approximately one year, although completion times vary depending on previously earned credits and individual progress.

How do I qualify Penn Night School?

Penn Night School serves eligible Indiana residents from South Bend, Mishawaka, Granger, Elkhart, and surrounding communities.

To qualify, students must:

  • Be 18–22 years old
  • Be an Indiana resident
  • Be beyond their expected high school graduation year, as defined by the Indiana Department of Education
  • Need to complete the requirements for a high school diploma

You do NOT have to live within the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation boundaries to enroll.

A young woman in a graduation gown and cap, smiling and posing with an older woman who is also smiling.How Do I Enroll in Penn Night School?

Enrollment is easy!

Prospective students can register by appointment with Brad Boyd, Pennway Night School Director, Monday–Thursday between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m.

Call: (574) 254-2895
Click to email Program Director Mr. Brad Boyd.

Online enrollment is also available upon request.

What Documents Do I Need to Enroll?

Please have the following documents available when registering:

  1. Proof of Date of Birth: Driver’s license or birth certificate
  2. Proof of Indiana Residency: A photo ID may qualify
  3. Previous High School Transcript: If available, provide a transcript from any high school you previously attended.

Need a copy of your high school transcript? You may be able to request one through Parchment. Did you previously attend Penn? If so, click here to request your transcript.

Frequently Asked Questions About Penn Night School

A graduate in a cap and gown, holding a diploma, standing on a stage at a graduation ceremony.

Can I earn a high school diploma instead of a GED in South Bend, Indiana?

Yes! Penn Night School, located in Mishawaka near South Bend, offers eligible Indiana residents ages 18–22 an opportunity to earn an accredited Penn High School diploma by completing required high school coursework rather than taking a GED or HiSET equivalency exam.

Is Penn Night School free?

Yes! Penn Night School is a FREE high school diploma completion program for eligible students.

Can I finish my high school diploma online?

Yes! Penn Night School offers online and in-person coursework options, allowing eligible students to complete their education while balancing other responsibilities.

Do my previous high school credits count?

Previously earned high school credits may count toward your graduation requirements. Your transcript can help determine which courses you still need to complete.

How long does it take to earn my high school diploma?

Students typically complete Penn Night School in approximately one year. However, the time required depends on previously earned credits, remaining coursework, and individual progress.

Do I have to live in the Penn-Harris-Madison School District?

No! Penn Night School accepts eligible Indiana residents who live outside the P-H-M School Corporation boundaries, including students from South Bend, Mishawaka, Elkhart, and surrounding communities.

Is Penn Night School Closed when P-H-M Schools are closed?

Yes, in the case of inclement weather and P-H-M schools have closed for the day or the decision is made to cancel evening events, Penn Night School will also be CLOSED for that evening. Announcements about Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation’s delays or closings will be posted on Penn-Harris-Madison’s main website at www.phmschools.org. Announcements are also made on the local TV stations: ABC 57, WSBT and WNDU.