Policies for Course Credits and Exemption Examinations
Augustana recognizes that students may have gained knowledge and skills through prior studies or experience which is equivalent to one or more college courses. Therefore, Augustana provides a variety of ways in which students may demonstrate knowledge and skills and receive credit or an exemption from a requirement. Students may earn up to 32 credit hours through one or more of the prior learning evaluations listed below.
Advanced Placement
The College Entrance Examination Board’s Advanced Placement Examinations (AP) are used by the University in awarding academic credit to students who achieve a score of 4 or 5 on an AP examination. Students interested in obtaining credit on the basis of such examinations should consult with the Office of Admission. Details of course equivalencies may be found on the Academic Advising website.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
Augustana will grant credit based upon successful completion of most College Level Examination Program Subject Matter Examinations. The University does not grant credit for CLEP General Examinations.
- Augustana uses the recommended score for awarding credit as contained in the CLEP Subject Examination Policy.
- Students may take these examinations either prior to or after enrolling at Augustana. Students who achieve the minimum passing score or higher will have the equivalent Augustana course noted on their transcript, with credit granted towards graduation requirements. When appropriate, they will also be excused from the corresponding course in the core requirements.
- Augustana is an “open” CLEP testing center making CLEP testing available to our students, high school students, and the general public.
Department Proficiency Exams
Currently Augustana offers three departmental examinations. These are ENGL 110, COMM 110, and PHIL 120. Upon successful completion of any of these examinations and the payment of a processing fee, a student receives credit for the course. For more information about the CLEP or departmental proficiency exams, contact the Student Success Center.
International Baccalaureate Exams
Academic credit is granted on a course-by-course basis for International Baccalaureate Higher Level examinations in which the student has received a score of 4 or higher.
Life Experience Credit
Augustana is eager to assist adult-learners pursue baccalaureate degrees through the evaluation of college-level learning gained from life experiences. By following suggested guidelines, adults may receive up to twenty-six semester hours of credit toward their degree through this option. Course credit is given for academic learning related to experience, not for work experience alone. Contact the Office of the Registrar for more information.
Transfer Credit
Students who successfully complete an academic course offered by an accredited college or university meet the requirements for transfer credit. Contact the Office of Admission, or the Registrar’s Office for more information.
Former Augustana Students
Students previously enrolled at Augustana must submit a Returning Student Application. This will allow the University to confirm your eligibility to return. Students who are interested in returning should contact the Registrar’s Office. An official transcript of any coursework completed at another institution since you last attended Augustana is required.
Veterans
Veterans should request that their transcript(s) of high school and/or college credits be sent to the Office of Admission. GI Bill® or other veteran educational benefits can be applied toward college expenses. Graduate degree programs are also covered by Veterans Affairs under Title 38, U.S. Code in accordance with CFR 21.4253 and 21.4254. If you need additional financial assistance, contact the Office of Financial Aid, Augustana University. More information for Veterans is available here.