The Power of CLEP Credits
CLEP, or College-Level Examination Program, exists to make your path to college credit more seamless. By demonstrating your knowledge on subjects that you may already be familiar with in test format, you can save time and money on college tuition, which is excellent! When it comes to individual college policies regarding CLEP courses credit, however, it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of different types of colleges and their stance toward granting CLEP test scores for credit (as well as how to raise your CLEP score).
The Landscape of College CLEP Policies: A Spectrum of Acceptance
The Enthusiastic Embracers
Some institutions are very accepting of CLEP exam credits so that you can fulfill general education requirements and specific course equivalencies. The benefits for students at these jolly acceptors of CLEP are numerous. By taking CLEP tests for various subject areas, you can earn credit faster, get to the classes that you want to dive deep into, and graduate early. Here are some potentially accepted CLEP subjects:
- American Government
- American Literature
- Analyzing + Interpreting Literature
- Biology
- Business Law
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- College Algebra
- College Composition
- College Mathematics
- Educational Psychology
- English Literature
- Financial Accounting
- French
- Human Growth and Development
- Humanities
- Information Systems
- Introductory Psychology
- Introductory Sociology
- Natural Sciences
- Pre Calculus
- Principles of Macroeconomics
- Principles of Management
- Principles of Marketing
- Principles of Microeconomics
- Social Sciences
- Spanish
- U.S. History 1
- U.S. History 2
- Western Civilization 1
- Western Civilization 2
The Cautious Approvers
Colleges with more restrictive CLEP credit policies may have some limitations around a maximum number of CLEP credits accepted, minimum score requirements higher than ACE recommendations, or specific departments not accepting CLEP. Some schools may have these restrictions to maintain academic rigor. University limitations may exist to guide students to focus on a particular aspect of the curriculum.
The Niche Naysayers (Rare, but Important to Know)
Some institutions may accept very few or no CLEP exam credits. Little to no acceptance of credit may be the case when programs are highly specialized. Schools may also adopt unique pedagogical approaches and decide that CLEP is not within their scope of instruction. It is crucial to check with your school before taking CLEP course credit.
How Do You Find Your School’s Policy?
- Search your institution on the College Board website and find out if your institution is a dedicated CLEP score recipient.
- Find the CLEP policy on the institution’s website. They will often be displayed. Look for “CLEP,” “credit by examination,” or even “advanced placement.”
- Reach out to the admissions or registrar’s office directly to find out their policy. You may also need to check with individual department heads for course-specific inquiries.
Maximizing Your Chances of CLEP Success and Acceptance
To maximize your CLEP course credits, choose classes that align with your college’s accepted list, your degree path, and focus on subjects you have a strong background in. Utilizing CLEP practice tests will ensure that you get the score you need to earn credit. CLEP practice questions will also help you gauge your readiness for the test by showing you areas of strength and weakness. You can find reliable CLEP exam practice materials with Peterson’s. Each question will give you a detailed answer explanation to reinforce understanding. Ensure you meet the minimum passing scores set by both CLEP and your institution, so that you get the most out of your prep and test experience. Do your research, plan strategically, and prepare diligently for your CLEP exams. Remember to take proactive steps to understand your college’s CLEP credit policies.
