Adult basic education programs are funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Division of Adult Education, to provide a full range of instructional services that prepare Pennsylvanians looking to develop the basic skills necessary to participate fully in the education of their children, find and keep family-sustaining employment, or obtain a secondary school credential. The Division of Adult Education also monitors GED® testing in Pennsylvania, provides professional development for adult education and family literacy program administrators and teachers, and provides training for volunteer tutors of adult education.

The intent of adult education and family literacy services is to assist adults to become literate; to obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency; to become full partners in the education and development of their children; and to complete their secondary school education.

 Pennsylvania Adult and Family Literacy Education ACT 143 aims to provide coordination and broaden the scope of educational activities to uneducated and undereducated adults in the Commonwealth and the families, including those who speak other languages and to provide services to those who have been previously under served. 

 Individuals who meet the following criteria are eligible for services:

• Have attained 16 yrs. of age
• Are not enrolled or required to be enrolled in secondary school under state law 
• Lack sufficient mastery of basic educational skills
• Do not have a secondary school diploma
• Are unable to speak, read, or write the English language
• Are a resident of Pennsylvania