Standardized tests such as AP, IB, CLEP or DSST exams can be used to earn college credit. In addition, institutions like URI can also award credit based on comprehensive exams developed by campus faculty which students can request – called “challenge exams”.

Review the list below to determine if you may be eligible for college credit by examination:

1. Advanced Placement (AP) Exams: You may earn advanced placement credit for college if you’ve completed college-level courses in high school and earned the minimum score required by the URI academic department.
2. International Baccalaureate (IB) Exams: You may earn international baccalaureate credit for college if you’ve completed and obtained a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the Higher Level IB exams.
3. College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Exams: CLEP scores must be submitted to URI directly from The College Board. For a listing of transferable CLEP scores and credit equivalencies, please consult the Transfer Equivalency Database (TES) – equivalencies are listed under “The College Board AP/CLEP”. CCRI is the nearest available testing center in RI.
4. DSST (formerly DANTES) Exams: DSST scores must be submitted to URI directly from the testing website. For a listing of previously reviewed DSST credit equivalencies, please consult the Transfer Equivalency Database (TES) – equivalencies are listed under “DSST Program Exams”.
5. Department Exam / Challenge Exam: Depending on the course, a faculty member may suggest a comprehensive exam is the best method to assess your knowledge. The Coordinator for Prior Learning assists with the arrangement of challenge exams, however exams are only issued upon approval by the academic department. This method of exam is available only if a CLEP or DSST exam is not accepted by URI for the course you wish to earn credit. To request a challenge exam, please submit a CPL Inquiry Form.