CLEP, College Level Examination Program, is an amazing way for college students to earn credits without actually having to take the course. These standardized exams, which cover material taught in general or introductory level college courses, are offered in subjects such as history, business, and mathematics. With over 2,900 colleges and universities accepting CLEP as a way to earn credits toward a degree, many students are able to benefit from this program.
Students should contact their institution in order to learn the CLEP policies and find out which CLEP test or tests they can take in order to receive the credits they need. Students’ college academic advisors are often excellent resources for students interesting in CLEP. Once students determine which CLEP test they need to take, they can register for the exam.
The first step in the registration process is selecting a test center. Over 1,300 test centers are available on college and university campuses across the United States. Students can visit the official CLEP website or contact their academic counselor to locate test centers in their area. Some college or university CLEP test centers will only accept examinees that are currently enrolled in that college or university. However, most test centers are open, meaning that they accept any examinees. After locating the most convenient test center, the student can contact the center directly to inquire about available test dates. Considering that test centers are open year round, students are likely to find convenient test dates. When contacting the test center, students can also inquire about the registration process, registration deadlines, service fees, and any other pertinent information, such as the parking or transportation arrangement.
After selecting the test center location and determining several optional test dates, students can then complete and submit the exam registration form. While most test centers prefer that students complete a standard CLEP registration form and submit the form by mail, other centers may have their own forms or may allow online registration. The standard registration form, which is found on the official CLEP website, requests information such as name and address, first and second choices for test dates, examination name or names, test center name, and payment method. In addition, students with documented learning or physical disabilities, which require special examination accommodations, can indicate this request on the registration form. Students requiring special accommodations should contact the test center for additional information on the documentation required to receive these accommodations as well as the type of accommodations available at the specific center.
The form also asks if a student is a DANTES-funded military examinee. Eligible military personnel and certain civilian government employees are able to test without paying the $72 CLEP test fee; however, these examinees (even those eligible for DANTES-funded exams) will still be required to pay the non-refundable administration fee, of around $15, which is payable to the test center on the day of the exam. The preferred method of payment for the $72 CLEP exam fee is by debit or credit card; however, checks and money orders payable to “College-Level Examination Program” are also accepted. Examinees should also be aware that an additional fee of $10 applies to the optional essay portion of certain exam, such as the English Composition CLEP with optional essay. Although examinees will pay close to $90 to take most exams, these fees are much less when compared to the cost of tuition!
After completing the registration process, students can focus on preparing for their CLEP. Official study guides published by CLEP are available for purchase. In addition, several private companies offer preparation for exams. Many of these companies offer online study material that is convenient, affordable, and effective. One such company, SpeedyPrep, even guarantees a passing CLEP score to students who complete any of their question-based study courses.
Whatever method of preparation they choose, students who diligently prepare for their CLEP can use this amazing educational program to earn valuable credits, lower tuition expenses, save time, and accelerate degree completion.