Frequently Asked Questions
What is UExcel®?
UExcel® is a new credit-by-examination program aimed at students interested in attending college. Students attain college credit by demonstrating knowledge in individual subject areas. The UExcel program is delivered globally at over 400 computer-based testing locations and is available throughout the year. UExcel is an alliance between Excelsior College, a leading distance learning higher-ed institution, and Pearson, the market leader in education.
Why should I take a UExcel exam?
The UExcel program provides a number of benefits to college bound students. Receiving UExcel exam credit can:
- Prove you are prepared. Market yourself to institutions by demonstrating your ability to master university-level coursework.
- Save you time. Bypass entry level college courses and prerequisites so you can graduate early.
- Save you money. Taking UExcel Exams for credit can help you satisfy graduation requirements, while saving thousands on college tuition costs.
- Convenience. With over 400 test centers around the world, locating a UExcel test center is easy.
- Acceptance. Credit by exam is accepted at over 3,300 universities and colleges nationwide.
How much does the exam cost?
Once the program launches later in 2009, the cost of each UExcel Exam will be $85.
How do I register for an exam?
We recommend you start by reading the registration guide (available in late Spring, prior to program launch). You can then register for your test online through Pearson VUE, or you may call a customer service representative. The process is simple and takes only a few minutes.
When will I receive my score? How do I order additional transcripts?
If you have taken a UExcel beta exam prior to January 31, 2009, you will receive your beta test score in the mail at the end of March 2009. Once the UExcel program launches later in 2009, score reports will be available immediately upon completing the exam. You can also check your grade online by logging in to your profile at Pearson VUE. Once your score has been posted you may request a transcript by visiting our Web site. The first transcript is free of charge.
How do I prepare for my exam?
Before you study for the exam, we recommend reading the content guide for the exam you are considering. The content guide contains a description of the material covered on the exam, a few sample questions, and recommended textbooks for self-study. If you choose to pursue other modes of preparation, you should ensure that the content you are studying aligns with the topics of study covered in the content guide.
Who accepts UExcel credit?
Over 3,300 colleges and universities accept credit earned through credit-by-examination tests. The process varies from institution to institution, but exam-based credit is usually processed like any other form of transfer credit. UExcel will send a transcript to the schools you designate. Sometimes a registrar may require additional information about the program-like a course description. If your institution requires additional information regarding the UExcel examination series, your advisor may contact the Assessment Unit at Excelsior College at 888-647-2388 (ext. 166).
How do I find out if my university accepts UExcel credit?
Granting of credit is a decision made by the school and we recommend you contact the school and find out about their exam credit policy before taking an exam with us. A university may deny your request for credit, in which case you can make a written request to the Provost or Department Head asking that your request for credit be reconsidered. You may need to provide them with the course content guide, which is available on our website. A sample letter is also available.
When will the non-beta exam be released? When does the UExcel program officially go live?
The UExcel beta period has ended. We anticipate a full launch of the UExcel program later in 2009.
Who can I contact for more information?
Information about the exams is found in the content guides. Registration information can be found in the registration guide (available in late Spring, prior to program launch).
If you have questions that have not been addressed in the guides or the FAQ, please contact us.
