This option is primarily intended for students who took a similar course at a non-accredited institution, or who took a class that didn't transfer in. It is also for students with substantial knowledge in a particular subject. You will receive a study guide produced by the department issuing the test that will include recommendations as to the textbook and the major areas of emphasis from which to study. All test-out grades are pass/no credit, meaning you must earn a grade of C or better (76%) in order to pass. If you fail the test, you cannot re-take it and it does not appear on your transcript. If you pass it, you get credit for the course and are accessed a $35.00 fee per credit hour ($105 for a 3 credit-hour course).
Test-outs are administered by the Academic Support Center, Mullen 312, 440-449-2049. The Department Head, or her/his designee, determines which courses are included on the list of test-outs; s/he will determine eligibility, the appropriate test, grading and grade assignment for all tests in a given department. You must have previous knowledge in the relevant field or have taken an appropriate course for which credit has not been given. All currently enrolled, degree-seeking students are eligible to test out of authorized courses.
- Discuss test-out options with your advisor. Sign up as you would for any other course, using as a section number "T-88". You take the test-out during the semester in which you sign up.
- Please complete a test-out scheduling form.
- Study guide material and test format are available on the Ursuline College website for most tests. If this information is not available on the website, contact the Academic Support Center.
- The deadline to schedule a test-out is three weeks prior to the exam date. You must call the Academic Support Center to schedule a date for the test. Tests will be given in Mullen 312, and should be scheduled 2 to 3 weeks before the end of the semester. For exams that are not multiple choice, you must take your test-out by mid-term.
- Most test-outs administered by the Academic Support Center are multiple choice; these tests are graded within 72 hours of the test administration. Computer applications test outs are graded by the end of the semester in which you take the test out. You will be notified by mail about whether or not you passed the exam.
- All test-out grades are officially shown and reported on the transcript on a pass/no Credit basis. You must earn a grade of "C" (76%) or better in order to pass a test-out. 75% is not a passing score.
- TAKING A TEST-OUT IS A ONE-SHOT DEAL; you are not given a second chance to pass the exam. If you do not feel ready, please wait to take the exam. Unsuccessful or not completed test-outs are not listed on your transcript - they are automatically dropped from the computer at the end of the semester.
- Students are not permitted to take a test-out during their final semester.
- Students are not permitted to register for a test out and the course simultaneously
- You will be assessed $35 per credit hour on the tuition bill. Payment is made in the same manner as for courses taken. Should you not take the test or not complete it successfully, the payment less $15.00 will appear as a credit on your tuition account (providing payment was made previously).
