
How to Prepare for CLEP Exams
- Review the CLEP exam overviews The College Board lists on its website all 33 of its CLEP exams. ...
- Take CLEP practice exams One of the best ways to study for CLEP exams is by taking CLEP practice tests. ...
- Create a study schedule leading up to the CLEP exam
- Review the specific info provided by the College Board about each exam you plan to take.
- Take free or paid CLEP practices tests online and review your results.
- Schedule your study sessions at a time when you can focus without distractions.
How to decide which CLEP exams you should take?
Why One at a Time is Usually Preferable
- CLEP Exams Can Be Hard. If you haven’t taken a CLEP test before you’ll be nervous on test day. ...
- Focus is Limited. Most CLEP exams are around 90 minutes long. You might finish sooner, but don’t count on it. ...
- One at a Time is More Motivating. CLEP exams require a large amount of self-motivation. ...
What are the easiest and hardest CLEP exams?
Easiest to Hardest CLEP Exams Based on the Pass Rates Found Here: http://www.gordon.army.mil/ACES/dantes_testinfo.htm Easiest Spanish I (6 credits) 92 German I (6 credits) 81 Freshman College Composition 77 College Mathematics 72 English Composition (with essay) 72 Social Sciences and History 71 Natural Sciences 70 English Composition (without essay)
What are the best classes to CLEP?
- Spanish Language – 91%
- College Composition & College Composition Modular – 84%
- French Language – 84%
- Analyzing & Interpreting Literature – 81%
- Principles of Marketing – 75%
- Introductory Psychology – 75%
- German Language – 74%
- Introductory Sociology – 74%
- Human Growth & Development – 72%
- Information Systems – 70%
How much does it cost to take the CLEP exam?
The fee to take a CLEP test is $77. However, most schools charge an administration fee in addition. Most schools charge an additional $15, making it approximately $92 to test out of one CLEP test. The fee is the same for a 3 credit hour or a 6 credit hour test.

How long should you study for CLEP?
Depending on your learning style, studying for a CLEP exam could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. As a general rule, the more time you have to study, the better. Keep a calendar and block out an hour or two every day or every other day to devote to studying for your exam.
Is there a study guide for CLEP?
The CLEP Official Study Guide covers all 34 CLEP exam topics in one comprehensive book. It includes practice questions for all exams, exam descriptions, information on getting credit for CLEP, and test-taking tips and strategies. This book is ideal for test takers planning to take more than two exams.
Is taking the CLEP exam hard?
#4 Overestimating CLEP Difficulty Thankfully, CLEP tests are actually easily passed by anyone willing to put in the study time and effort. I've personally talked with hundreds of CLEP students from high schoolers to adult learners who have successfully passed and earned college credit.
How do I start a CLEP?
InstructionsSelect an exam. Visit the CLEP exam topics page and choose the exam you want to take. ... Add the exam to your cart. ... Sign in to your CLEP account. ... Review your personal information. ... Select a preferred test center. ... Choose where you'd like to send your scores. ... Review your order and check out. ... Schedule your exam.More items...
What are the easiest CLEP exams?
9 Easiest CLEP Exams RankedAnalyzing and Interpreting Literature.College Composition / College Composition Modular. ... Spanish, French, or German. ... Information Systems and Computer Applications. ... Introductory Sociology. ... College Mathematics. ... Social Studies and History. ... Principles of Marketing. ... More items...
How many times can you take a CLEP exam?
12. Can you retake a CLEP test? You can take CLEP tests as many times as you want (though you'll have to pay the $87 fee each time).
Can you pass CLEP without studying?
Probably not unless you're already well versed on those topics. Obviously the hard fact based and formula based tests will require studying and lots of knowledge such as the math and science CLEPs (not counting environmental and natural science, you can pass these with minimal knowledge).
How hard is it to get a 50 on CLEP?
Generally, only 50 out of 80 is needed to pass a CLEP exam, which comes out to a grade of 63%. The catch is that a CLEP test will appear as a “P” for “pass” on your transcript whether you get a 50 or an 80. Since CLEP exams cover such a broad range of concepts, you are not expected to pass with flying colors.
Can I take CLEP exam at home?
CLEP now offers test takers the option to take a CLEP exam at home with remote proctoring.
Is the CLEP all multiple choice?
With the exception of a few tests offering essay options, each CLEP test consists primarily of multiple-choice questions. A few tests include fill-in questions as well. Each test is 90 minutes long.
Does Harvard accept CLEP?
Credit by Examination We do not accept all CLEP exams, so check with an advisor before registering for one. The minimum acceptable score is 56. Harvard Extension School does not accept all ACE-approved credit.
Do CLEP exams have essays?
No. On April 15, 2021, CLEP discontinued offering the optional essay. Essays are still required for College Composition and Spanish with Writing exams.
Is the CLEP Official Study Guide worth it?
The CLEP Individual Exam Guides provide all the content in the Official Study Guide, but for only one specific exam. If you plan to take only one or two CLEP exams, we recommend purchasing an Individual Study Guide. If you plan to take more than two exams, consider purchasing the CLEP Official Study Guide.
What are the 34 CLEP exams?
History and Social Sciences CLEP TestsAmerican Government (3 credits)History of the United States I (3 credits)History of the United States II (3 credits)Human Growth and Development (3 credits)Introduction to Educational Psychology (3 credits)Introductory Psychology (3 credits)Introductory Sociology (3 credits)More items...
Are CLEP study guides free for military?
College Level Examination Program – CLEP Peterson's CLEP Prep is a free resource for military spouses. Access online or printable learning tests and receive a baseline evaluation of your understanding of specific subject areas of the CLEP examination.
Do you get study guides in college?
▪ College Requires Greater Independent Learning. of test preparation help. They may have provided prepared study guides or even the exact questions they would ask. Although college instructors also want you to be successful, they don't give students as much study help.
Who can take CLEP tests?
Anyone who wants to earn affordable college credit can take a CLEP exam — there are no restrictions. CLEP exams are perfect for mil...
Which schools accept CLEP?
More than 2,900 U.S. colleges and universities accept CLEP credit, but each institution has different policies on the subjects, sco...
Which subjects are covered in CLEP exams?
CLEP exams cover over 30 subjects in five main categories: Composition and literature World languages History and social sciences Science and mathe...
What is CLEP credit?
Passing CLEP exams can grant you transferrable college credits, recommended by the American Council on Education. CLEP exams are a great alternativ...
How do I transfer CLEP credits?
To earn college credit for your CLEP exams, you must request for CLEP Services to send the scores of completed exams to your designated...
How many CLEP credits can I earn?
You can earn between 3 and 9 college credits per CLEP exam depending on the test subject. Over 2,900 colleges and universities acro...
Do CLEP credits expire?
CLEP scores are good for 20 years after the test date.
How is the CLEP scored?
CLEP test scores range from 20 to 80 and are calculated by converting raw scores - based on the number of correct answers - into scaled scor...
What is a passing CLEP score?
The passing rates for CLEP exams vary, but in general, the overall passing rate is 77%. The recommended minimum passing score f...
Get Official Study Guides
The CLEP Official Study Guide covers all 34 CLEP exam topics in one comprehensive book. It includes practice questions for all exams, exam descriptions, information on getting credit for CLEP, and test-taking tips and strategies. This book is ideal for test takers planning to take more than two exams.
Download the CLEP Study Guide App
You can also buy the Official CLEP Study Guide App from examIam so you can practice for the exam on your mobile device. The app contains the same information and practice questions found in the CLEP Exam Study Guides. It also includes diagnostic tools to help you identify your test-taking strengths and weaknesses.
Practice with Sample Questions
Practicing with sample questions is a great way to get a sense of the CLEP exam format and difficulty level before you choose to purchase the study guides. Browse through sample questions in the resources section below or download exam-specific fact sheets with additional sample questions (also available on each exam page).
Practice Questions and Study Guides
College Board study guides contain official CLEP practice questions to help you prepare for your exam.
Study Resources by Exam
Review helpful study resources by exam topic to help you do your best on test day.
Online Resources
Browse helpful academic websites and online resources to help you study for your CLEP exam.
Test-Taking Tips
To prepare for your exam, use these test-taking tips to help you answer multiple-choice and essay questions.
Warning About Third-Party Study Materials
As you prepare for your exam, learn the warning signs of companies asking you to pay for test prep services.
How to get college credit for CLEP?
To earn college credit for your CLEP exams, you must request for CLEP Services to send the scores of completed exams to your designated schools. Each institution will then determine if the scores meet their requirements and grant credits that may be used towards a degree at their school.
What is a CLEP test?
CLEP exams test your expertise in a particular subject, providing an opportunity for you to demonstrate understanding through a standardized test. Passing these exams proves your mastery and grants real college credit, just as though you had passed the corresponding course at a college or university!
What are the CLEP exams for military?
CLEP exams are offered to military personnel, their spouses, and civilian military employees who want to earn introductory college credit. The 2018 CLEP pass rates for military members ranged from a high of 84% and 82% for subjects like Spanish Language and College Composition, to a low of 13% and 11% for subjects like Chemistry and Financial Accounting. Using tools like practice tests and a regular study schedule can help improve any test taker's likelihood of passing their chosen CLEP exam.
How many CLEP exams are there?
Are you looking to earn college credit outside the classroom? The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) offers over 30 exams that can help you earn real college credit in a fraction of the time for a fraction of the cost of traditional colleges and universities. CLEP exams test your expertise in a particular subject, providing an opportunity for you to demonstrate understanding through a standardized test. Passing these exams proves your mastery and grants real college credit, just as though you had passed the corresponding course at a college or university!
How many credits can I earn on a CLEP exam?
You can earn between 3 and 9 college credits per CLEP exam depending on the test subject. Over 2,900 colleges and universities across the U.S. accept CLEP credit in place of general education requirements, courses in a student's major, or prerequisites for advanced classes.
How many points do I need to pass CLEP?
The recommended minimum passing score for most subjects, according to College Board, is 50 points. However, every college and university will have its own guidelines for awarding credit for CLEP exams, so you should make sure to check each institution's website to confirm its policies.
Can I take AP classes in high school?
Only high school students are eligible for AP programs, which consist of college-level classes that conclude with corresponding exams. AP tests tend to be more difficult, and exam scores are accepted at most two- and four-year colleges and universities worldwide for credit and advanced placement.
What is the purpose of CLEP exam?
Look at the Exam Outline. CLEP exams allow you to cash-in on knowledge obtained outside the classroom or in high school. While you may know a lot about American government from a high school class and personal study, the key is to understand the concepts covered on the American Government CLEP exam.
What is the purpose of practice test in biology?
So after you feel that you have covered the vast majority of content, it’s time to take a practice test. Practice tests help you identify the gaps in your knowledge. If you have been studying for the Biology CLEP exam, then you likely have an understanding of the cell.
Is a D good enough for a CLEP?
Know that a “D” is Good Enough. Generally, only 50 out of 80 is needed to pass a CLEP exam, which comes out to a grade of 63%. The catch is that a CLEP test will appear as a “P” for “pass” on your transcript whether you get a 50 or an 80. Since CLEP exams cover such a broad range of concepts, you are not expected to pass with flying colors.
Can you get penalized for wrong answers on CLEP?
CLEP test takers are not penalized for wrong answers. Be sure to select an answer to every question, even if it means making a blind guess. If you are running out of time, selecting a random answer at least gives you a shot at choosing the correct answer.
Do business law textbooks cover CLEP?
Since a CLEP exam covers an entire college-level course, you don’t need to know the formula for determining currency appreciation .
What is CLEP?
CLEP stands for College-Level Examination Program. There are 34 exams in CLEP that test students’ knowledge of introductory college course material.
Who is Eligible for the CLEP Test?
Are you looking to save time and money in an effort to earn college credits?
Which Schools Accept CLEP for Credit?
Of course, passing the CLEP exam will only make sense to do if your school accepts the exam for credit. You can use the College Board’s database to find out if your school of choice is on the list.
Details of the Exam
The $89 exam consists of multiple-choice questions with five options for answers. Depending on the subject, the tests tend to take 90-120 minutes.
What to Bring on Test Day?
If you’ve signed up to take a CLEP exam, then you’ll want to bring the following items with you on your test day:
Final Thoughts Worth Sharing
CLEP exams are taken by many different types of students for a variety of reasons. No matter why you are choosing to take the CLEP exam, you have a lot to gain (and almost nothing to lose).
Affordable Education is Your Right
Whether or not you choose to take CLEP exams, you always have the opportunity to earn a degree that’s affordable and accessible at the University of the People.
