CLEP and DSST Exams—Your Guide to CBE Success

CLEP and DSST are credit-by-exam tests, meaning that if you show your knowledge of the given subject, you can earn college credit by taking an exam if your university accepts CLEP or DSST for credit. Both exams are standardized tests that measure your knowledge of certain subjects by scoring satisfactorily on the exam. With DSST and CLEP exams, you can save money on tuition, save time, and earn credit. One of Peterson’s subscribers earned 52 college credits and saved thousands of dollars by prepping for tests and testing out of subjects. You can find Tayah’s story here!

Anyone seeking college credit can take CLEP or DSST exams. Military personnel, home-schoolers, college-level students, high school students, and adult learners are typical test takers—accommodating those balancing work or military service and empowering motivated learners to advance their academic progress. In this blog, we’ll overview test specifics and which test, CLEP or DSST, may best suit you on your educational journey.

Understanding CLEP vs DSST

CLEP vs. DSST—Key differences and similarities.

Number of exams offered—There are 34 CLEP exams and 37+ DSST Exams. Peterson’s offers 32 CLEP prep courses and 36 DSST prep courses. 

Types of subjects covered

• DSST exams include niche topics like cybersecurity, ethics, and history, catering to adult learners and professionals.
• CLEP exams focus on general education courses, such as composition, mathematics, and social sciences, typically required for undergraduate courses.

Target audience—CLEP is usually for general students, and DSST is generally for military and adult learners.

Key DSST and CLEP Exams to Consider

DSST Exams:

• Principles of Supervision DSST
• Principles of Public Speaking DSST
• Ethics in Technology DSST
• Business Ethics and Society DSST
• Lifespan Developmental Psychology DSST

CLEP Exams:

• CLEP College Composition
• CLEP American Government
• CLEP Introductory Psychology
• CLEP Principles of Management
• CLEP Calculus

Preparing for Your Exams

Even if you have prior knowledge of a DSST or CLEP test subject, brushing up on specifics is always a good idea to ensure you’ll pass the examinations and familiarize yourself with the test format. Below are some avenues we recommend for adequate test preparation.

DSST Test Prep:

DSST practice tests and study materials help you to simulate test day and review content on the exam so you can get the most credit possible, making them an invaluable resource. Our experts have crafted lessons and DSST practice exams so you can walk into test day confidently. Plus, tutoring services are available for 3- and 6-month subscribers so that you can grasp concepts you may be struggling with.

CLEP Test Prep:

Make your most challenging CLEP tests easier with CLEP exam practice exams, including detailed explanations of answers and video/interactive lessons on subjects like college composition and algebra. Once again, tutoring services are available for 3- and 6-month subscribers so that you can grasp concepts you may be struggling with. Utilize study strategies like time management, CLEP practice tests, and review materials to maximize your CLEP experience.

How to Choose Between CLEP and DSST

Factors to Consider:

• Subject availability and alignment with your degree program.
• Exam difficulty and preparation requirements.
• Credit transfer policies of your institution.

Here’s a general breakdown of reasons to choose DSST over CLEP and vice versa:

Conclusion

If you want to save time and money, CLEP and DSST exams are an excellent avenue to savings street. Remember to start preparing early with practice tests and study resources to earn the most credit possible for your endeavors. Bear in mind that earning college credit through DSST and CLEP is not necessarily easier than taking a college course, so stay determined and show your smarts on test day. Best of luck from Peterson’s on your learning journey. We’re here to help however we can!