Credit-By-Exam

Thomas Edison Credit-by-Examination Program (TECEP)

At Thomas Edison State University we know that adults acquire college-level knowledge outside the classroom in a variety of ways. For example, job experience, volunteer activities and independent study may all provide knowledge that can be translated into college credit. Because of this, the University offers TECEP, its own credit-by-exam program, to help students earn credit by taking exams instead of courses.

Students interested in TECEP exams are required to apply to the University, selecting Non-Matriculating/Visiting Student Application when prompted to select a type of Application.

  • What subjects are available?

    Browse the TECEP exams and find a subject in which you have some prior knowledge or experience. Then review the test description for that exam. A test description includes a list of exam topics, suggested study materials, information about the test format, and sample test questions. By reviewing the test description material, you will know what to expect and how to prepare. Learn more about preparing for TECEP exams.

  • What are the tests like?

    TECEP exams are similar to final exams for college courses. Most have multiple-choice questions, and some have short-answer or essay questions. They are graded on a Credit/No Credit basis and by passing you receive college credit.

  • How do I take a TECEP?

    You can register for a TECEP exam whether or not you are enrolled at Thomas Edison State University. After you register, the University will send you a confirmation email with detailed information so you can make your testing arrangements. You can test anytime during the 12-week term you select once your testing arrangements have been confirmed by the Office of HelpDesk and Test Administration.

  • How to schedule a TECEP?

    The new TECEP course space contains all the information you will need to complete your examination(s). The navigation tools are located at the top of the page. Highlighted below are links to the information on scheduling your exam, taking the Sample Exam, etc.

     A screenshot of the registration process for TECEP courses at TESU.

    We recommend scheduling an appointment ASAP to get the day and time you prefer.

    TECEP exams are offered in two different formats: online or pen/paper. If you choose the online format, you will be taking the exams with ProctorU, our OPS vendor, using your home computer and webcam. If you choose the pen/paper format, you will select a proctor that meets our guidelines, and we will send the exam booklet to that individual once they are approved.

    If you select the online format, the TECEP exam link will bring you to the page below. The ProctorU proctor is the monitor. He/she will input the monitor name and password. You cannot progress from this screen unless you have scheduled an appointment with ProctorU and completed the identity verification process on your test day.

    A screenshot of the registration process for TECEP courses at TESU.

    If you select the pen/paper format, you will complete the Proctor Request Form below. The completed form is submitted electronically and can be reached by clicking on the Everything you need to know about TECEP exams link. You will receive confirmation within several business days.

    A screenshot of the registration process for TECEP courses at TESU. 

    Once you break the seal on the test booklet (pen/paper version) or click the exam link with ProctorU (online version), you will be graded on the work completed. You cannot go back to complete the test at a later date. Make sure your schedule is free for the full allotment of time (2 or 3 hours depending on the TECEP) and your proctored setting (pen/paper version) or your home environment (online version) is quiet and conducive to taking a test.

    If you have a question during the test, alert your proctor; if you have a question before or after the examination, alert the Office of HelpDesk and Testing Administration at testing@tesu.edu or by calling 609-984-1181.

Other credit-by-exam programs


We also accept test results from other credit-by-exam programs.