Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any prerequisites or entry exams I would need to take before I get started?
The only requirement to enroll in an associate or bachelor degree program is usually a high school diploma or GED. If you do not have either, I can point you in the right direction to quickly obtain your GED so you get started on your path to a degree.

I have a number of credits from many different colleges. It seems anytime I have transferred schools not all of the credits were accepted. Can I use these credits?
In most cases, Yes. As long as they are from a regionally accredited institution and you do not have any duplicates you can generally use them as part of your degree. In fact, some students have found that after analyzing their transcripts they already have enough credits to graduate. All they have to do is register with the college, transfer their credits and receive their diploma!

I don’t consider myself a good test taker. How will I know if credit by examination is for me?
Most students with test anxiety are pleasantly surprised after receiving the results of their first exam. The exams are usually multiple-choice questions. Generally, if you can answer at least half of the questions correctly you will pass.

Once I finish my bachelor degree will I be eligible to attend a local college for a Master’s?
That is dependent on the entry requirements for the particular school. The way in which you achieved your bachelor degree is rarely an issue as long as it is regionally accredited. Many distance learning students have gone on to traditional graduate programs.

Will my diploma mention anything about my degree being distance or that I got it by “testing out”?
Most likely no. Most schools make no distinction about residency on the diploma.

What kind of Majors can I test out of?
Just about any major areas of study that are available by traditional means are offered by distance. Business, Psychology, Political Science, Criminal Justice and many more are available without any classroom attendance. We’ve found the most popular option for students who want a degree in the shortest amount of time is a Liberal Arts degree. This offers the widest variety of exam choices and credit opportunities.

Does Testing Out of College provide study materials for exams?
I do recommend materials for exams and suggest sources where you can find study material for free (such as library and internet) or purchase exam specific materials fairly inexpensively.

Can I use the Testing Out method to get an associates degree?
Yes. But why stop there. On occasion I come across learners who only want to pursue an associates degree, but once they see how easily it was accomplished, they almost always continue on for the full bachelors degree.

Can I test out of a Masters or Ph.D.?
Graduate degrees generally require new learning and can be difficult to obtain through past learning and credit by examination. However, there are many accredited master degree programs available entirely through distances learning. Distance Ph.D. programs generally require a short residency, however, there are a few that can be earned with no campus attendance at all.

How much will it cost?
That all depends on previous college credits you are bringing with you. If you are starting with 0 you can expect to spend $5,000 to $10,000. That's including tuition, fees and study materials.