If you are a member of the armed forces and are taking part in the DSST program that allows you to gain credit while serving, you may have questions that need answering. Here are seven common questions and their answers to help you through the system.
- What should I expect when taking the DSST exam?
The DSST exams contain 100 multiple choice questions on the subject area in question. They are much like the final exams in any high school course or any college courses you may have taken.
- Can I take the DSST exam at home?
The short answer to this question is no. DSST exams are administered and proctored by authorized testing centers, and can be done by paper or computer depending on the testing center.
- Where are these testing centers?
Each county in the United States has numerous centers that administer the test. Tests may also be available on international bases in case you would like to take it and are not in the United States.
- What schools accept DSST exams for credit?
Most major universities in the United States accept the results of DSST exams for credit. The DSST website provides a list of the universities that accept credit. In order to see how to get the university to accept the credits, you should consult the university’s website.
- What subjects can I take exams in to get credit toward my degree?
DSST subjects are divided into six broad categories, each of which have at least two exams you can take. The categories are business (10 exams), humanities (3 exams), math (2 exams), physical science (5 exams), social sciences (14 exams), and technology (3 exams).
- Where can I find information on individual exams?
Numerous websites have information on the subject material of each test, but for the best overview of the subject material on tests—along with other information—go to getcollegecredit.com.
- How many credits will I receive for each exam I pass?
Each exam will award you with 3 credits. Some universities will award you an extra credit, at 4 credits, depending on what the program needs.
As you can see, the DSST is an excellent option for members of the armed services to get college credits. If you don’t pass the exam the first time, you can retake the test after 90 days—providing you enough time to see how you did, what you got wrong, and fix the mistakes!
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