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Credit by Exam

Put your knowledge to the test!

Credit by examination is a form of prior learning that allows you to take a test in exchange for college credit, getting you steps closer to graduation while saving money!

CCBC accepts scores for several standardized college placement exams as well as in-house departmental exams that you can arrange with faculty.

Credit by exam is a good fit if you:

  • Tend to perform better on tests and are able to study independently.
  • Have previously taken AP, IB or Cambridge courses in school.
  • Have military experience and want to complete CLEP or DSST exams.

Exam types:

Departmental exams

If you've already gained college-level learning through professional or personal experiences, you can arrange to take a departmental (internal) exam, similar to a final exam. Exam methods vary on the type of course challenged.

External exams

We accept several external test scores in exchange for CCBC credit, some of which can be taken on-campus at our Testing and Assessment Center. Costs will vary by vendor and proctor facility.


Next Steps

The process will vary depending on whether you've already completed the exam, and your eligibility will depend on course equivalency. Here's what to generally expect:

How to earn credit for standardized exams:

  • Apply to CCBC and select a program of study. If you have since changed your program of study, be sure to update your student record
  • Submit official documentation of all prior learning, including transcripts and exam scores, to the Registrar's Office.
  • Once admitted, complete our Transfer Evaluation form. If your exam has a CCBC course equivalency that is required for your program, we will apply those credits toward your degree. This process takes a few weeks. 

How to initiate the department exam process:

  • Apply to CCBC and select a program of study. If you have since changed your program of study, be sure to update your student record
  • Submit your official college transcripts to the registrar's office.
  • Contact the Office of Prior Learning to initiate the process. They'll review your program of study and connect you with a faculty member if your experience is eligible for departmental exams.
  • Pay the assessment fee (50% of the in-county tuition rate) and arrange to take the test at one of our testing centers. This fee is waived for current and former CCBC Continuing Education students who wish to apply their workforce certificate to a related degree program!
  • Score at least a 70% on the exam to earn the credits.

Which courses are eligible for credit by exam?

View an up-to-date list of eligible exams and their CCBC course equivalent.


Questions? Contact us!

Prior Learning Assessment