College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) is also known as testing out or credit by examination. This program is a shortcut to earning a college credit without paying the College for a course. Once you graduate from high school, you can take the examination of a specific course that you are familiar with. With enough preparation, you may get a good score and get the credit out of it.
The CLEP examination can be used to build up dual credit, which means that you can credit a course in high school as well as in college. The exam can shorten the years of study necessary to finish a college degree, while allowing you to take other courses. Since your subjects are credited, it can save you money in earning a college degree, given that the CLEP exams are cheaper than registering for a college class. The CLEP will help you determine the College that fits to your abilities and needs. It may also help you determine the degree or course you must take in college.
When you have a good score for basic skills classes like mathematics and English, you are no longer required to take it in college. Through your preparation, your study skills will be developed, you will learn new things and you will be prepared for college level examination. It will also give you the chance to experience the college environment. It will also allow you to review current social issues and controversies by studying social sciences which will update you on the current events.
CLEP credits are widely accepted by more than 2,900 colleges. The examinations are 90 minutes long; usually in multiple choice formats. Some tests have essay questions usually required by specific colleges. There are other credit-by-examination programs in the country like DANTES. It is important to check whether your preferred college accepts and allows credits to be transferred from any testing source.