credit by examination

Definition

Earning course credit by passing a test rather than attending class, rewarding prior knowledge and self-study. It's the academic equivalent of skipping levels in a video game by demonstrating you already have the skills.

Example Usage

Using credit by examination, she tested out of Spanish 101 and 102, placing directly into advanced literature courses and saving a year of conjugating regular verbs.

Origin

Formalized through programs like CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) established in 1967

Fun Fact

Credit by examination can save thousands in tuition, yet many students don't know it exists because universities aren't incentivized to advertise ways to pay them less money.

Source: CLEP, AP, IB, and institutional credit policies

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