Frequently Asked Questions
What is CLEP?
CLEP is a national computer-based testing program designed to help adults earn credit for college-level learning that has been accomplished by on-the-job training, independent reading, or other non-traditional forms of study. Many colleges and universities throughout the country use CLEP test results to award credits towards associate’s or bachelor’s degrees. Each participating college or university establishes policies concerning credit awards independently.
What Kind Of Learning Do CLEP Exams Measure?
The five General Examinations (College Mathematics, English Composition, Humanities,
Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences and History) test the knowledge you have
accumulated in each of these broad areas of study. SCCC awards elective credit for
scores equivalent to a C grade on these exams.
The Subject Examinations listed in the CLEP brochure cover knowledge equivalent to specific courses and are more specialized in focus than the general examinations. In most cases, SCCC awards credit for the equivalent of a C grade on subject examinations that correspond to courses listed in the catalog. Exceptions are noted on the accompanying list. Please note that all 13 of SCCC's academic credits for prior learning must fulfill requirements of the student’s degree or certificate program. No prior learning awards are made to non-matriculated students.
Why take CLEP exams?
The College-Level Examination Program provides students of any age with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through a program of exams in undergraduate college courses. There are 2,900 colleges that grant credit and/or advanced standing for CLEP exams.
By taking one or more CLEP exams in your strong subjects, you'll...
Save time. Get college credit for what you already know. Be rewarded for what you've learned through independent study, advanced high school courses, non-credit adult courses, or professional development.
Save money. Compare the cost of a CLEP exam, just $55, to hundreds -- even thousands -- of dollars in tuition.
Make college more interesting. Move right into advanced courses.
Graduate on time. CLEP can help you finish on time if you're a few credits shy of graduating.
Satisfy a proficiency requirement. Demonstrate you've already mastered the content of, for example, a basic math or language course.
How Do I Decide Whether CLEP Exams Are For Me?
Familiarize yourself with the CLEP policies of SCCC and/or other colleges you may wish to attend. Review the CLEP test description in the CLEP brochure, as well as the practice test and study hints offered in the Official Guide for the CLEP Examinations (available at many libraries and bookstores, etc, or by direct order from the College Board). Consult your counselor, academic advisor, the Admissions Office, or the Office of Adult Learner Academic Programs.
