University Undergraduate Advising Handbook

When a department offers groups of students an opportunity to take an examination for credit or requires an examination for initial placement in a course or course sequence, the credits received are described as "credits by undergraduate proficiency examination." Credits are granted only if the student has not been awarded equivalent credit or has not failed the course.

Credit for the exempted course(s) is entered on the student's transcript under the semester in which the exam was taken. However, if a provisional or nondegree student earns credit by proficiency examination, the credit earned will not be entered on the student's record until he/she becomes a degree candidate. The symbol "S" is recorded to indicate that the student demonstrated competency equivalent to a grade of C or better. Credit awarded in this manner does not affect grade-point average.

FEE

There is no charge for undergraduate proficiency examinations.

Information on proficiency examinations is provided in the Undergraduate Degree Programs Bulletin.

The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. Please consult a Penn State academic adviser for more detailed information.

This page is part of the University Undergraduate Advising Handbook, which is maintained by the Division of Undergraduate Studies, DUS@psu.edu.

Last Update: October 2007