Get additional info: Up-to-date registration information, testout format, resources to prepare, and FAQs.
What is the CSE 20 Testout exam?
The CSE 20 testout exam offers a way for students with a working knowledge of Python to skip CSE 20 and proceed directly to CSE 30 or other CSE courses.
CSE 20 is the introductory class to Python in the Computer Science and Engineering Department at UC Santa Cruz. CSE 20 is a required class for all new CSE students (joining UCSC in Fall 2019 or later), except for those who have a waiver. The waiver can be obtained in two ways:
Having passed a course that articulates to the equivalent of CSE 20, or
Passing the CSE 20 testout exam.
Who should take the CSE 20 testout?
We strongly encourage every incoming student to take the CSE 20 testout exam.
The CSE 20 testout exam offers every student valuable feedback on their knowledge of Python. We advise every student to take the exam. Students whose knowledge of Python is weak may have a better learning experience at UCSC by taking CSE 20 first, then by enrolling in classes for which they are not fully prepared.
When can I take the CSE 20 Exam?
The 2023 CSE 20 testout exam will be available in July and September.
Registration is required for the exam. Students can register for and take both July and September exams. If a student registers and later decides not to take an exam, it is not necessary to "unregister" or otherwise notify us.
