A creep testing fixture and method for applying a precise amount of constant tensile stress to a creep test specimen to allow for precise measurement of creep in the test specimen. The fixture includes first and second mounting grips for holding opposite ends of a test specimen. A frame supports the mounting grips for relative reciprocal movement toward and away from each other. A tensile spring is connected between the first and second mounting grips. The frame subjects a test specimen held between the mounting grips to tensile stress in response to axially inward force that the tensile spring applies to the frame.