Everything You Wanted to Know About CLEP Exams and More
College education is a must in today’s society. With schedule conflicts and time constraints, it can often be hard to achieve both. There is help though, and it may come in the form of the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams. This is a great way to earn college credit. Following is everything you wanted to know about CLEP exams and so much more, to help you choose if this is the right path for you.
What are the CLEP Exams?
Now you are wondering what the CLEP exams are and why you haven’t heard of them before. The CLEP exam is a College Board (think SAT) run set of credit-by-exam programs that allow students to take a select number of exams and achieve college credits by receiving a passing score. These exams will enable you to study and earn most of your core classes without ever stepping foot in the classroom. CLEP exams allow you to complete your degree in a shorter amount of time than the traditional four years for undergraduate degrees.
How Can CLEP Exams Help Me Achieve My Goals?
By allowing you to complete your college education in a significantly shorter amount of time, you will be able to obtain your degree and still handle the chaos that is life. Getting you out of the classroom and into your career even faster. This is after all the goal in receiving that college education, right? CLEP exams could turn your dreams of college into a reality in less time than you think. And don't forget how much shaving a semester or two off your college tuition could save you!
Do all Colleges Accept CLEP Credit?
Many people think that because the CLEP exams are College Board certified that they are accepted at every school. While almost 3000 schools accept CLEP exam scores towards your necessary credits, not all do. You will need to speak with the school counselor or advisor to make sure these CLEP exams will be accepted. By asking first, you will not be taking exams that do not help you advance your educational goals. Typically, if your school is a state school or a community college, they will accept at least some credit. Always check in advance so you don't waste time studying for something that may not ultimately work for your school or degree.
How Much Do CLEP Exams Cost?
The exam fee for each CLEP test costs $85. When you call to register for your CLEP exam, you will want to ask about any administration fees charged by the testing facility. Administration fees are not included in the initial $85.00 CLEP exam cost. Each facility will have its own fees and schedule that you will need to consider. A quick call to the testing center or visiting their online site will answer all of these questions for you. These can range from free to $25 per location. The price of the CLEP exam could save you not only time in college completion but also money in tuition fees for classes you may be able to skip, meaning your CLEP exam will be invaluable for your achievement.
Are CLEP Exams Hard?
Many of the CLEP exams are not difficult; however, with the right amount of studying they should be no problem. If you use your CLEP study guides and with the use of extra fun activities like flashcards you will be ready to pass your CLEP exams. We guarantee that you'll pass your CLEP test. Your only limitations on success will be yourself.
How do I Prepare for My CLEP Exams?
Preparing for the CLEP exams is easy to accomplish with a structured plan that includes study guides, practice materials, practice exams, studying and more studying. When you think you are ready, you should try having someone ask you questions and review some more. When you have done all of the above, you can try a practice exam - we have a few listed on the site for free (check your subject page) and every study guide includes even more practice test questions.
What Courses do CLEP Exams Cover?
There are 33 CLEP examinations to choose from, ranging from the American Government to World History. With CLEP exams available in algebra, economics, and even foreign languages, you are sure to find one that suits your needs. You will want to contact your college advisor/counselor for a CLEP exam list and to find out what exams they accept for which college requirements. In taking these steps, you will ensure that you are taking CLEP exams that advance your college career and get you closer to your degree.
CLEP subject areas include:
Where Can I Find CLEP Exam Practice Tests?
As with any other form of study, the best way to test your understanding of a subject is to practice. After you have studied your CLEP exam study guides, you will want to practice what you have learned. With CLEP practice exams available for each course of study you will have all of the tools you need to make the grade. Taking the practice exam several times will allow you to access your understanding of the material and overall readiness for taking the CLEP exam. If you have not mastered a particular part of the content, you will be able to go back over the information and try the practice test again.
Where Can I Take My CLEP Exams and How Do I Schedule My Exams?
Once you have studied and feel confident as to your results, it is time to schedule your CLEP exam. Test takers can find a certified test center in your local area or through your school. CLEP exam dates and times will vary for each testing facility. When you call to register for a CLEP exam, the testing center will be able to give you a schedule of available dates and times. You will have between 90 and 120 minutes to take each exam, so make sure your times work with your plans, so you do not feel rushed. Rushing through any of these exams could result in mistakes and lower scores.
How are CLEP Exams Scored and What is a Passing Score?
CLEP exams consist of multiple-choice questions with five answer choices each. The number of questions will vary dependent on the subject. There are also a few CLEP exams that will have an essay requirement. You will need to check your course to find out the specific requirements for its corresponding CLEP exam. Each exam is scored on a scale from 20 to 80 points. The computer will tally your score as you take the exam, with each correct answer equally one point. The required score to pass is 50. However, you will need to check with your college of choice as some schools have their requirements beyond that of the American Council on Education (ACE), resulting in a slightly higher qualifying score. You will instantly receive your score report at the end of the test, letting you know how you did.
How Many Credits Do I Get for My CLEP Exams?
You will earn between 3 and 12 credits from each CLEP exam, dependent on the course of study. Remember to check with your school to find out how many of those credits will be applied toward your degree requirements. Language courses will afford you the most credits from the CLEP exam list; they will still vary though as to credits granted by your school of choice.
Study With a Guarantee!
The best part about choosing your CLEP exam study guides with us is that they come with a money back guarantee. If after you have completed your study guides and completed all of the CLEP exam preparation, you do not pass your CLEP exams you will receive a refund of what you paid for your study guide. What could be better than a guarantee like that? We are confident that with the information found in these study guides and the extra help provided by our study tools, that you will pass your CLEP exams.
Now that you know what the CLEP exams are and that they can help you achieve your degree goals faster; you are set to start your preparations. Don’t forget to check with your preferred school about their policies and requirements concerning CLEP exams and their acceptance. Use your study guides to prepare yourself, use your practice CLEP exams to test your readiness, schedule your CLEP exam and pass your way into a shorter college career. Making your degree dreams and plans much closer than you have ever imagined.
Who Can Take a CLEP Test?
Anyone can take a CLEP test. If you are in high school, you qualify! And you don't have to be a traditional student. Many home schooled students take CLEP tests to have college credit before they begin college. There is no age requirement or any college requirement. Are you an adult thinking about going back to school? You can study for a CLEP test and take your time, getting you ready to go back to school with additional college credits under your belt.