Flexible Pathways to Credit and Testing Services
The Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing (CAS) is here to support you at every step of your academic journey. Whether you need accommodations through Alternative Studies or want to complete placement or accommodated testing, CAS offers both in-person and online services designed to be flexible and accessible. Explore the options below to find the support that fits your needs and get started quickly.
CAS Services
Explore Alternative Studies Services
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Credit for Prior Learning
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Directed Studies
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Credit for Military Experience
Explore Educational Testing Services
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Placement Testing (communications, math, and ESL placement)
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- Communications
- ESL Placement Testing
- Math (Non-STEM Programs)
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Aleks Math Placement (STEM Programs)
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NSCC Course Testing (test for credit)
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Advanced Placement (AP credit for high school students)
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College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)
- Purchase your test via the CLEP website
- Make an appointment to take your test at NSCC
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Language Testing for Credit
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Departmental Exams
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Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
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High School Equivalency Testing for high school students (HiSET and GED)
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Proctored Testing for Other Colleges
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Basic Skills Core Requirement
- Communications Proficiency
- Mathematics Proficiency
Testing hours and locations
Testing via Zoom
Monday and Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Tuesday–Thursday: 11 AM – 7 PM
College-Level Examination Program
To take a College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) test at NSCC, make an appointment.
Please note that your test session will be recorded.
Testing on Campus
Monday and Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Tuesday–Thursday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Locations
Lynn (LS-215)
300 Broad Street, Lynn MA 01905
Danvers (DB-213)
1 Ferncroft Road, Danvers MA 01923
Drop-ins welcome, Photo ID required
Important Notes
- Last testing: 1 hour before closing
- Nursing students: must arrive 1.5 hours before closing
- First Monday each month: closes at 4 PM
- Last testing: 3 PM (2:30 PM for nursing)
- First Saturday each month: 9 AM – 1 PM (Zoom + Lynn only)
- Closed on legal holidays
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact us!
Email: cas@northshore.edu
Phone: 978-762-5428
Mission
The Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing supports the college goal of blending tradition and innovation, serving as a resource to individual learners, faculty, other college departments, and the community. Through outreach and collaboration, we strive to expand opportunities for all. We provide an array of testing options and alternative methods to earning college credit with a commitment to a comprehensive approach in a supportive environment. The Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing proudly adheres to the NCTA Professional Standards and Guidelines.

