College can be expensive; not just in tuition but also in time. What if you could skip some of the basic classes and still earn full credit? That’s exactly what CLEP and DSST exams make possible. These exams let students test out of certain college courses, saving both money and months of class time.
Here’s how it works and how you can use these programs to your advantage.
Contents
What Are CLEP and DSST Exams?
CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) and DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) are nationally recognized exams that measure what you already know. If you pass, many colleges and universities will award you credit as if you had completed the actual class.
- CLEP is managed by the College Board — the same organization that runs the SAT.
- DSST was originally created for military service members but is now open to everyone.
Both test your mastery of subjects like English composition, math, science, history, business, and foreign languages.
The Cost Savings
Each CLEP exam costs about $93, and DSST exams are roughly $100 which is a fraction of the cost of a three-credit college course, which can easily run $1,000 or more at many institutions.
Even better, many schools and military programs will reimburse or waive fees for eligible students.
- Active-duty military members can take DSST and CLEP exams for free through the DANTES program.
- Some high schools and community colleges partner with testing centers to offer free or discounted exams to students.
Subjects You Can Test Out Of
CLEP offers over 30 exams in categories such as:
- Composition and Literature
- History and Social Sciences
- Science and Mathematics
- Business
- World Languages
DSST offers over 30 subjects, including areas like:
- Ethics in America
- Introduction to Business
- Principles of Statistics
- Substance Abuse
- Astronomy
You can find full lists of exam topics on the College Board and DSST official websites.
How the Credit Process Works
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Check your school’s policy.
Each college decides which exams it accepts and what scores are required. Some may award 3 credits, while others may give 6 for the same exam. -
Register for your exam.
You can sign up for CLEP exams at clep.collegeboard.org and DSST exams at getcollegecredit.com. -
Take your test at an approved center or online (many are now offered remotely).
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Send your scores to your chosen college or university to have the credits officially applied.
Time Savings
Passing just a few exams can help you skip introductory courses like English 101, College Algebra, or U.S. History. These classes that often fill up fast and slow down degree progress. Some students earn enough credits through CLEP and DSST to graduate an entire semester early, saving thousands in tuition and living expenses.
Study Tips for CLEP and DSST
- Use free study guides. Both programs provide sample questions and topics online.
- Check out Modern States. This nonprofit offers free CLEP prep courses and even reimbursement vouchers for exam fees.
- Take practice tests. Websites like Peterson’s and InstantCert offer low-cost prep tools that mimic the real exam.
- Focus on what you already know. The exams reward real-world knowledge, so if you’ve worked in business, served in the military, or taken AP classes, you may already be halfway there.
Final Thoughts
CLEP and DSST exams are powerful tools for anyone looking to save money, shorten their college timeline, or get credit for what they already know. Whether you’re a high school student getting a head start, a service member, or an adult returning to school, testing out of classes can be one of the smartest academic moves you make.
Pro tip: If you’re serious about cutting college costs, pair CLEP and DSST exams with other credit-saving strategies, such as dual enrollment, community college transfers, or free online college courses. Together, they can help you earn a degree faster and cheaper than you thought possible.
