Assess the need in your community for a GED program. Some communities may be small and already offer one or two programs. In this case, you should only proceed with your plan if you can offer services that are significantly better than what is already available.
Estimate how many students your school would serve in a year. You can gather information to make your decision by checking dropout rates at the local public schools, and talking to students who attend other GED programs to see how satisfied they are.
Create an organization, or associate your GED school with an organization that you are already running, such as an after-school program.
Obtain 501(c)3 nonprofit status for your organization. This paves the way for soliciting funding for your school. While 501(c)3 status is not strictly necessary to operate a GED school, you will likely find that there is not a demand for a for-profit GED school in your area. Most GED programs are free of charge to the students, and are able to offer this service because of outside funding. See the Resources section for a link with more information about applying for a nonprofit designation.
Solicit funding for your school. Approach larger nonprofit organizations with proposals that outline how your school will benefit the community, and request funding. Look up foundations and identify those that will provide educational grants, or grants to nonprofits in your geographical area. A note: Community support is essential for getting donated money to run your school.
Locate a suitable building for your GED program. It is critical that the building be located in the neighborhood where your student population lives, or be quickly accessible by public transportation. The building should be safe, inviting and able to accommodate technological needs. It should also be accessible to handicapped students.
Hire staff for your school. To maintain program quality and funding, ensure that each member of your staff has at least a bachelor’s degree in a field related to the subject he’ll be teaching.
Recruit students for your school. Send press releases to newspapers and other local media. Make brochures and distribute them to agencies that also serve your target population.