College-Level Examination (CLEP)

Students may test out of certain courses through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) administered by the College Board

In order for a CLEP to be considered, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • The student must be matriculated in a program at RVCC. 
  • The student can demonstrate that (in addition to achieving the necessary score on the exam), by study, training or experience outside RVCC they have acquired skill or knowledge equivalent to that acquired by students enrolled in a College course.  Such skill, knowledge, or experience shall be in the area of the course concerned; and determined to be relevant by the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs or other authorized personnel, based on evidence that the background prerequisites justify allowing the student to take the exam. Background prerequisites shall include the student’s academic or employment record or both; and / or faculty recommendations.
  • The student must have a cGPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • Request must be for a regular course listed in the catalog or an elective necessary for the student's program.
  • The student has not previously attempted this course, be enrolled in the course, previously received a grade for the course at any CCSNH school, has been administratively withdrawn from the course, has dropped the course after the two-week drop/add period or has withdrawn from the course.  

The student shall apply to the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs or authorized person of the College by completing the appropriate Transfer Request Form. 

Upon successful completion of the CLEP the student shall request the score be sent directly to the College Admissions Office from the College Board.  A passing score for CLEP is 50 or above, depending upon the course.  If successful, the appropriate credits earned are applied to the student’s program. 

Students should consult with Program Director, Department Chairperson or Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs before taking CLEP exams to determine which CLEP exams with appropriate scores and documentation can be used to fulfill program requirements (clep.collegeboard.org).