PASS IT

At Southwest, we offer challenge exams for some courses. These types of exams allow you to challenge the course by essentially taking the final first. Ask your PLA coordinator or faculty mentor for a list of challenge exams in your program.​

Credit by Exam & Challenge Exams

Students may earn college credit by demonstrating proficiency through standardized exams or departmental Challenge Exams, when available.​

STANDARDIZED EXAMS DEPARTMENTAL CHALLENGE EXAMS

Standardized exams such as CLEP (College Level Examination Program), DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests), and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) are administered through the Southwest Testing Center. Qualifying scores may demonstrate competency in areas such as introductory math, writing, business, and other subjects.​

Click the links below to view the credit crosswalks for the following exams:
College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)​
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams

Some academic departments offer Course Challenge Exams, which allow students to demonstrate course knowledge by completing an assessment developed by faculty.​

  • Not all departments offer Challenge Exams​
  • A $25 Challenge Exam fee must be paid at the Cashier’s Office prior to testing​
  • Minimum passing scores are determined by the academic department

Students should consult their PLA coordinator or department to determine whether a Challenge Exam is available for a specific course.

👉 Visit the Southwest Testing Center webpage for exam information, fees, and scheduling details.​

Southwest also provides exam crosswalks that outline which exams and scores may be eligible for credit consideration.​

TURN YOUR WORK EXPERIENCE INTO COLLEGE CREDIT

Contact: pla@southwest.tn.edu |  901-333-5000


“Your experience counts at Southwest.”

Take the next step — turn your experience into college credit and accelerate your success!


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