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HomeFinancialEducationBase Guides
Education

CLEP Testing: Fast-Track Your Degree

Wings Ready Team
January 8, 2024
8 min read
What is CLEP Testing?

The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows you to earn college credit by demonstrating knowledge you've already acquired through work, study, or life experience. For military personnel, CLEP tests are an excellent way to accelerate degree completion and maximize education benefits.

Key Benefits for Military:

  • Save time and money on college courses
  • Earn up to 30 credit hours through testing
  • Tests available at military education centers
  • Often covered by military education benefits
  • Flexible scheduling around military duties
Popular CLEP Exams for Military

General Education Exams:

  • College Composition
  • College Mathematics
  • Natural Sciences
  • Social Sciences & History
  • Humanities

Subject-Specific Exams:

  • American Government
  • Principles of Management
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Western Civilization
  • Spanish Language
Cost and Military Benefits

Military Funding Options:

  • Tuition Assistance (TA): Covers CLEP exam fees
  • GI Bill: Can be used for CLEP testing
  • DANTES: Free testing for active duty at education centers
  • Unit Funds: Some units pay for professional development

Cost Breakdown:

  • CLEP exam fee: $93 per test
  • Test center fee: $25-30 (varies by location)
  • Study materials: $20-100 (optional)
  • Potential savings: $1,500-3,000 per course equivalent
Study Strategies and Resources

Effective Study Methods:

  • Take the free practice test first to assess knowledge gaps
  • Use official CLEP study guides and materials
  • Focus study time on weak areas identified in practice tests
  • Join online study groups and forums
  • Schedule regular study sessions around military duties

Recommended Study Resources:

  • Official CLEP Study Guides: Published by College Board
  • Modern States: Free online courses for CLEP prep
  • Peterson's CLEP Prep: Comprehensive study materials
  • Khan Academy: Free subject-specific content
  • Military Education Centers: On-base tutoring and resources
Test Day Success Tips

Before the Test:

  • Get a good night's sleep before the exam
  • Arrive early to the testing center
  • Bring required identification and materials
  • Review key concepts but avoid cramming

During the Test:

  • Read questions carefully and completely
  • Eliminate obviously wrong answers first
  • Manage your time effectively (90 minutes per test)
  • Don't spend too much time on difficult questions
  • Review answers if time permits

Scoring Information:

  • Scores range from 20-80 points
  • Most colleges require 50+ for credit
  • Scores available immediately after completion
  • Official transcripts sent to designated colleges
Action Plan for Military CLEP Success
  1. Meet with your education counselor to discuss CLEP options
  2. Research which exams align with your degree requirements
  3. Take free practice tests to assess your readiness
  4. Create a study schedule that fits your military duties
  5. Utilize free and low-cost study resources
  6. Schedule your exam at a convenient military testing center
  7. Apply for military funding (TA, DANTES, or GI Bill)
  8. Take the exam and request score reports for your college