Regents External Degrees make it possible for an individual to earn a college degree without the constraints of time or locale, and without necessarily attending college. He or she need only demonstrate college-level competency in a Regents External Degree Program. Credit is granted for a variety of educational experiences--from military training, to proficiency examinations, to traditional college course work. This document presents, in Part I, a description of the New York Regents External Degree, including enrollment procedures, costs, grading systems, and degree programs. Part II describes the New York College Proficiency Examination program and its use. Part III gives information on the New York College Proficiency Examinations and the Regents External Degree Examination, including application procedure, grading policies, examination format, use of examinations and methods of preparation. Part IV presents examination content descriptions. Also included is a list of the colleges, universities, and nursing programs in New York State that participate in the College Proficiency Examination Program. (Author/PG)