E 115 Credit By Exam Information

We host an E 115 Credit by Exam (CBE), which is one exam to gain credit for E 115. Please review the E 115 website and read the textbook online thoroughly to make sure you have enough background to pass the exam!

Register here.

You’re eligible to take the CBE if you:

  • Are enrolled in the College of Engineering or Engineering First Year program
  • Need E 115 for a major or minor requirement
  • Are currently enrolled in E 115 for the semester you wish to take the exam

Any of the above can be true, and none of the below can be true.

You’re not eligible to take the CBE if you have:

  • Previously failed the E 115 CBE
  • Received a U (Fail) or W (Withdrawal) in E 115
  • Been enrolled in E 115 past the drop deadline
  • Been enrolled in or received credit for COS 100 (formerly PAMS 100)

When and Where Is the CBE?

The E 115 CBE is offered once per semester at the beginning of the term.

  • Spring, Fall, Summer Sessions — Held during the first week of classes
  • Location: Lampe Hall (check the sign-up form for room and time)
  • Format: In-person only; no online option available

What’s on the Exam?

To pass the CBE, you need to score 70% or higher on all parts of the exam. Content includes:

  • File Systems: Navigating and managing the NFS file tree
  • UNIX Commands: Creating, moving, and editing files
  • HTML/CSS: Building and styling simple web pages
  • GitHub: Creating a repository and building a simple web page that is visible.
  • Excel: Using basic formulas and identifying errors
  • Security: Basics of networking, hardware, and operating systems
  • Remote Access: Using the NC State Virtual Computing Lab

How to Register for the CBE:

  1. Complete the registration form (Link) by the specified deadline. For Fall 2025, it is August 20, 2025.
  2. Wait for confirmation and exam details via email.

What to Bring on Exam Day:

  • Photo ID (required for entry)
  • Laptop and charger (if using your own device)
  • Pen and blank sheet of paper for notes
  • Installed Software: Terminal/Putty, Microsoft Office, and a text editor

If You Pass the CBE:

  • Drop E 115 from your schedule via MyPack Portal by the last drop day.
    • If you are co-enrolled in CSC 111, 113, or 116 you may not be able to self-drop. Please work with advising to get help with this.
  • Your CBE credit will be posted to your transcript by the end of the semester.

If You Don’t Pass the CBE:

  • You must enroll in E 115 as required by your program.
  • No penalty for failing, but you can only attempt the CBE once.