: ) questions about excelsior college

PghRN30 · Dec 3, 2010

I've not done excelsior, but my understanding of it you get your study materials and then take your test at the testing center when you feel ready to, however long it takes you. No actual classes, which is why some people with a lot of healthcare background can move though their program so fast, no class/intruction time to hold back from moving forward faster then could in a normal class.

caliotter3 · Dec 3, 2010

You take tests for the nursing areas. You can sign up for classes for some of the general ed and other courses if you choose, or you can take tests for those, but most people transfer in credits they have earned at other colleges. You can call or email one of the advisors with questions.

techiediva2010 · Dec 3, 2010

I am in the program and to give you a little more insight: the nursing theory exams are self-study, self-paced. However, you can sign up for a 8 week online course if you feel that you would do better that way. I have not signed up for any of the online course. I have been studying and taking the exams at Pearson Vue.

I normally time about 2-3 weeks to study for an exam because I work full time in healthcare technology. However, when I decided I wanted/needed to take a break to move home to take care of my mom and other things, I have been able to do it without being kicked out of school.

While I am studying, I go ahead and pay for the exam, cost is $250 per exam right now. I sign up for a date on Pearson Vue because the area I am in fills up really fast. For example, I had to wait to get a date in Dec because both testing centers were booked all Dec. Once you pay for the exam, you have 6 months to take it. One good thing I like, if I am not ready to take an exam and I have already signed up for a date, I can reschedule before 24 hours before the exam and I am not penalized or have to pay extra money to reschedule. I do it all online.

Also, I have been taking the practice exams, which cost $65 each. You receive two forms, which has 100 questions each. You are given 2 hours to complete each exam. I normally take one right after I finish studying the material and then take the 2nd one after I review the areas I am weak in, normally a few days before my exam.

Right now, I have 3 exams left to complete. Once you complete the theory exams, you will receive a paper copy of the FCCA. You have to do assessments of patients and other material. I have not concentrated on the information yet because I have 3 exams left before receiving it. Once you mail FCCA back and passes it, you are eligible to take the 3 day clinical, CPNE, if you are within 10 hours of completing your other requirements. I can not commend on other requirements because I did not have to take any other than information literacy. I have a few undergrad and grad degrees so they had loads of courses to choose from.

I hope this helps some.

sarah505 · Dec 4, 2010

Thank you all for the great answers, they were very helpful! :)

lisalulu68 · Dec 4, 2010

That information was very helpful. How have you been studying? I was an excelsior student once and had a difficult time studying because there was soooo much. Do you just read everything?

Dallas Longhorn, LVN · Dec 6, 2010

I have questions about Excelsior College and The College Network . . . I met with one of TCN representatives who painted a rosy picture of how helpful (with an incredible support system) they are and how their students score so well on exams and on the boards, how they practically guarantee your passing to get an RN, etc. Then, I read HORROR STORIES about how people were paying for additional courses, fees, etc. and could not get answers or support from either EC or TCN. Help!!! Can anyone give me their experiences, good or bad with either or both of them? Thank you!

Editorial Team / Moderator · Dec 6, 2010

Skip the middleman -- TCN. You can buy used TCN manuals on eBay if you decide you like them, but signing a contract with them will add thousands to the bottom line. Seriously. Search this particular forum for TCN, and you'll see.

TashaLPN2006RN2012, ASN, RN · Dec 6, 2010

Agree totallly with Lunah! I bought ALL recommended/required textbooks PLUS some supplemental text/help books on ebay, half and other online textbook websites and i've been doing really well so far (all my grades/dates are in my signature) I think i spent about $250 total on text books...got my fundamentals for $4.99 and that included shipping! =) I always buy an edition or two previous than the one listed in the free content guides from EC, and haven't had any trouble...if you think you want more help i like rnbridgeprogram online lectures and it's $97/mo and you can cancel at anytime! I had to cancel for 6nmo due to financial issues, and was able to resign up with no issues this past month when i could afford it! so research around, ask lots of questions here and on the ECE facebook page! and CALL EC...they are W

ONDERFUL whenever i call! =) good luck

Conqueror+, BSN, RN · Dec 6, 2010

Don't bother with TCN. Use the EC study guides with the rec textbooks. (I purchased older editions online for $5 sometimes) and you will do fine. I have found the EC advisors very helpful and encouraging. Welcome to the EC experience :)

Dallas Longhorn, LVN · Dec 8, 2010

Thank you very much! I did some further research after posting my questions and saw comments similar to yours. However, it is always nice to get confirmation. I contacted the school directly and they are sending the paperwork to enroll. What an awesome, informative site this is!