Credit by Examination (CBE)

The purpose of credit by examination is to recognize a student's experience(s) and knowledge base for which credit or advanced standing has not been previously granted. Credit may be earned by a student who satisfactorily passes authorized examinations.

  1. Credit may be granted to any student who satisfactorily passes an examination approved and conducted by appropriate authorities of the College.
  2. CBE may be granted only for a course listed in the current College Catalog. Each division shall maintain a list of courses which may be challenged for CBE.
  3. The student's academic record shall be clearly annotated to reflect that credit was earned by examination.
  4. CBE courses must be awarded a letter grade (A, B, C, D, or F), except for courses that are offered only as a credit/no credit grading option.
  5. Units for which credit is given by examination shall not be counted in determining residency required for the associate degree or certificate.
  6. A student may not receive credit for a CBE if the student has already completed a more advanced course in the same subject matter.
  7. CBE may not be considered part of the student's program for enrollment verification purposes.
  8. A student may not earn more than 12 semester units of academic credit by examination.
  9. CBE is not offered during the summer intersession.

The student will initiate a petition no later than the fourth week of the semester to challenge for CBE. The Office of Admissions and Records will verify that the student meets the eligibility criteria. The student must provide written evidence, i.e., transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc., that substantiates the knowledge base or experience that the student has which warrants approving the petition to challenge the course. The student will consult with a Counselor to determine if CBE will assist the student in meeting educational goals. (AP 4235, 5/10/05)