How can I meet my state requirements?

I still need to meet some of my state requirements. Can I do that by taking exams, online courses or classes at out-of-state institutions? How can I be sure the State Education Department will accept these credits?

A:Yes, you may be able to meet some state requirements in this way. For example, you can eliminate course credit deficiencies for your state certification requirements by getting passing grades on exams given by the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) or Excelsior College Examinations.

The exams you take should not duplicate any college courses you already took. If you have questions about these exams, call TeacherLine (212-253-8800), an educational liaison in your UFT borough office or the union’s Department of Certification Services (212-420-1830).

Contact each testing company for information about which exams it offers, costs and registration procedures:

• CLEP offers exams in 35 subjects. For more information about CLEP go to http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/about.html.
• You can get current information about DANTES at www.getcollegecredit.com or by calling 1-877-471-9860.
• To check on Excelsior exams, go to www.excelsior.edu, then click on Exams, or call 1-888-72EXAMS.

The credits you earn by taking these tests also count toward the credit requirements for either the first or second salary differential. You will need to request a transcript from the testing company

The State Education Department will only accept course credits or degrees that you earned outside New York, whether you took courses online or in person, from regionally accredited institutions. Check the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website to determine whether or not an institution is regionally accredited. Be especially cautious before enrolling in online courses.