NASHUA – They come in all ages and from all backgrounds. Some are still teenagers, while others may have not been in a high school classroom for years.

All of them have a single goal: to pass the HiSET, the High School Equivalency Test (formerly GED), and make a change in their life.

Many of these students find themselves at the door of the Adult Learning Center, where free classes are offered to help prepare for the test. The HiSET covers reading, writing, math, social studies and science, and measures academic knowledge and proficiency equivalent to those who have earned a high school diploma.

At the ALC, individuals find caring and supportive teachers who guide them through the process from registration to “graduation.”

Most of the 250-350 students who come to the ALC each year looking for help with the HiSET complete the test by the time they are 25. The length of time it takes each student to finish the program is as varied as the students themselves.

“There is no standard amount of time” for students to complete the program,” adult education director Diana Owen said. Factors such as “income level, determination, job schedule and attendance all play a part in determining how long a student will spend preparing.”

For some who come with strong skills and are motivated, three to five months may be all they need to prepare and finish the five exams. For others, it may take years.

While most of the students are young, Owen said, “Our oldest was a successful business retiree who was 82 years old when he finished.”

Whatever the story, it is always inspiring and satisfying for teachers to see students achieve their goals, and the “graduation” ceremony is a favorite for teachers and students alike.

Cameron Doucette, of Nashua was a speaker at last year’s ceremony. Doucette told his story of homelessness, depression and loss that kept him from completing high school. He remembered spending hours playing video games wondering how he could turn his love for gaming into a career.

One day, while walking by the ALC, he saw a flier about HiSET registration. He took a chance and changed his life.

In a few short months, he completed the test and received his diploma. The doors that opened to him have kept him motivated.

“I wanted to keep moving with my education; I didn’t want to stop,” Doucette said. “College was the first thing on my mind, and I knew nothing about it at all. So I attended Get Ready for College classes,” which are also offered at the ALC.

“It prepared me for everything I needed to know and what I will face during my time in college. With the options I have at NCC in computer-related fields, I have chosen to major in computer networking, then work into a four-year college after to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in film and video editing.”

Doucette is currently attending Nashua Community College.

William Quay’s story of HiSET success took a much different route. Quay came to the United States from Sierra Leone, where he lived with his mother after his father was killed when he was only 2. His mother was an English literature teacher, and education was always “pushed” in his home.

Despite this upbringing, Quay found himself floundering in Sierra Leone. Once given the opportunity to come to America, Quay refocused and knew this was his chance to realize his dreams.

“I learned about the Adult Learning Center and I was happy,” he wrote. “After sleeping on my wings for many years in school, I knew I needed to strengthen my foundation. I registered and took the placement test, and the following week I started classes.

“With all sincerity, the teachers are awesome and inspiring. I knew it was not all going to be rosy, but my mind was set for success. One of the best teachers, Steve, discovered my writing skills and took personal interest in helping me develop my skills and get on to college. I took the HISET, and with the help of the teachers, it was no big deal.

“I also went in for the Get Ready For College Program, and it was amazing. Every class was one step higher in my academics. Within a year I did it all, and I’m now at the Granite State College, studying digital and social media as my major and IT as my minor.”

The confidence Quay has gained is what he values most about his experience at the ALC. He knows he can reach any goal he sets his mind to and encourages others to take advantage of the offerings.

“I believe if I can do it, then everybody can,” Quay said.

HiSET preparation classes are ongoing at the ALC. There is no fee for the classes, and the ALC can help find financial assistance for the test fees. The tests are administered in a traditional paper form or online.

The next registration date is Monday, March 9, from 4-7 p.m. at 4 Lake St. in Nashua.

In Milford, students can prep and take the exam at Milford High School. Registration for Milford classes is Thursday, March 12, from 5-6 p.m.

For more information, visit adultlearningcenter.org.