This paper describes the Adult Performance Level (APL) project, an alternative to external high school diplomas such as the General Educational Development (GED) test. Based on the need for "functional literacy" or "functional competency," the program teaches basic skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening, communication, computation, problem solving, and interpersonal dynamics) and general knowledge in the areas of consumer economics, occupational awareness, health, community resources, and government and law. In addition, the program teaches specific coping skills appropriate to individual goals in one of three categories: occupational/vocational, advanced academic, or advanced specialization (such as homemaking). (KS)