Credit by Exam

Credit by exam is based on the principle that previous experience, training, or instruction is equivalent of a specific course taught by College of the Desert

• The student will receive a letter grade (A, B, C, D, F, P, or NP) and grade points in the same way as if enrolled in the course.
• A student may challenge a course only once.
• Credit by exam is possible in selected courses only
• Unit credit granted shall not count toward the minimum of 12 units required for residency.
• Credit earned according to this policy shall not count toward determination of eligibility for Veteran’s benefits.
• There is a non-refundable $46 per unit fee to start the process.

Step 1: Eligibility Requirements Check List

• I am currently enrolled at COD.
• I am not on Academic Probation
• I have not earned college credit in a more advanced course.
• Transcripts of all previous course work are on file at Admissions and Records.
• I have not received a letter grade for this or an equivalent course at COD or any other college or university.

Step 2: Approval Check List

• Meet with the Division Dean to determine which departments currently offer Credit by Exam.
• Meet with the instructor to obtain verbal approval that he/she will administer the exam.

Step 3: Payment

Complete the Credit by Exam form and pay the non-refundable $46 per unit fee at the Bursar Office on the first floor of the Cravens Student Services Center.

Step 4: The Exam

Give the Credit by Exam form to the instructor and take the exam. The instructor will complete his/her portion and forward the form to the Division Dean for processing.