AP or CLEP Tests (or neither)?

There is a growing trend to utilize credit by examination, whether that's AP exams or CLEP tests or other tools like DSST exams.

But just because something is a trend doesn't mean it makes sense for you! 

Here we'll take a look at the difference between the two exams and then some criteria for you to determine if these tools make sense for you:

AP Exams

• More widely accepted than CLEP tests, and generally considered to be more difficult.
• Does not require you to take an AP course.
• Are only offered in May/June of each year.
• The exams range from 90 minutes to over 3 hours and include both
  multiple choice and free-response questions.
• Official Website for AP Exams 
• List of AP Courses/Exams
• Free Practice Resources

CLEP Tests

• Not as widely accepted as AP exams, but are generally considered easier.
• You can schedule to test whenever works for you and your local testing facility (often community colleges).
• Exams are 90 minutes long, computer administered, and multiple choice.
• Official Website for CLEP Tests 
• List of CLEP Exams
• Free Practice Resources

With either the AP or CLEP exams, you want to make sure that you have an idea of what school(s) you will ultimately end up at, and have checked with each school to make sure they:

1. Accept the AP/CLEP exam you are taking

2. What their score requirements are, and . . . 

3. Confirm that the credit that will be awarded for the exam counts for the school's general study requirements. 

Don't know what school(s) you are considering? It might be best then for you to hold off on spending the time, energy, money and stress on these exams until you have a better idea of where you are headed.

Also remember these are exams. If your student isn't a strong test taker then I would STRONGLY encourage you to just pass on taking these exams and focus on other admissions tools.

If you do decide that you are going to take an exam, it's best to prep for and take the test at the end of the related high-school subject, so that the material is fresh on your mind!

Watch our blog for an upcoming list of resources you can use to study for these tests.

Grab our high school resource sheet here (or our homeschool version here)!