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DSST:
A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

The first step to being a successful DSST taker is getting informed. You should know what the tests are and if they are right for you, how they work, how you can prepare, and what scores you need to get your desired career. This article will cover all of this so that you can be well informed before you even start the process

 


What Is a DSST Test?

 

DSST tests give students the opportunity to earn college credit for learning acquired outside the traditional classroom. With more than 30 exam titles in college subject areas such as Social Sciences, Math, Applied Technology, Business, Physical Sciences, and Humanities, DSST exams shorten the pathway to graduation while reducing college costs. Prior learning assessment tools like DSST Exams offer students a cost-effective, time-saving way to use knowledge acquired outside of the classroom (from personal research, on-the-job training, independent study, work or military field experience) to accomplish their educational goals.

 

DSST tests at one time used to be only for military personnel—now it is available to everyone and grant students anywhere from 1-8+ credits depending on the school, typically they grant 3 credits. Tests can be taken any time throughout the year and have no prerequisites to being taken.

 

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Who Can Earn College Credits with DSST?

 

At one time, DSST testing was used only by military service people. Now anyone can take DSST tests! Some examples are:

  • Active-duty military service members, veterans and dependents

  • Traditional and returning college students

  • Applicants for master’s degree programs looking to fulfill undergraduate prerequisites

  • Students who need upper-division or open elective units

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How DSST differs from CLEP?

 

Though both CLEP and DSST exams provide college credit, there are two key differences. First, CLEP exams take 90 minutes, while DSST exams take two hours to complete. Secondly, CLEP exam credit is accepted at over 2,900 schools; DSST exams are accepted by over 1,900 colleges and universities nationwide. Before taking either a CLEP or DSST exam, make sure exam credit is accepted by your college or university.
 

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Benefits of Taking a DSST Exam

 

  • Use prior knowledge: Earn college credit for subject(s) in which you are already familiar.

  • Save money: The average college course costs $900+; each DSST exam only costs between $80-$100.

  • Reduce course completion time: The average exam takes two hours plus a few hours of study time versus three – six months of course attendance.

  • Decrease time to complete degree: College credit earned outside of the classroom reduces the number of courses you need to take to complete a degree.

  • Earn 4.5 college credits for each passing test

 

  • Add flexibility to your degree program
     

 

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Benefits Of Successfully Passing A DSST Test

 

• Save time and money on your education: Bypass traditional college classes and earn credit for what you already know

 

• Get a head start on your college career: Most colleges and universities accept DSST credit

 

• Improve your resume: Demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills needed for the job

 

• Boost your confidence: Show yourself that you have what it takes to succeed in college-level coursework

 

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Where Can I Take My DSST Test?

 

DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) are offered by two types of locations: fully-funded and non-funded. Fully-funded locations can be found on military bases or on college campuses that allow DANTES to pay any fees. Non-funded locations are set up on campuses that do not accept payment or reimbursement from DANTES.

You can find both funded and non-funded locations in your area through the DSST website. You can narrow your search to centers that are completely funded. You can also use the search tool to select only schools that give you credit for DSST exams. If you do want to receive credit for the exam, you should double-check that the school you want to attend offers credit for the specific exam you're going to complete.

 

Some testing locations only offer paper-based exams, while others deliver the tests over the internet. Make sure you select the testing option that works best for you before you register. You can either take a DSST test at a physical test center or utilize the remote proctoring option.

Keep in mind that different testing centers require you to register for these exams in different ways. Contact the institution where you plan to test and find out if they have any special requirements before you register. You may need to sign up in advance, or they may expect you to walk in.

 

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What is the Cost?

 

The cost of each DSST test is $80-$100 (not including testing center/proctor fees) but check the DSST website for discounts which are given often. Please confirm testing/proctor fees with the center staff while scheduling.

 

If you are a military serviceperson, eligible military candidates can have the exam fee waived for the first attempt per subject funded by DANTES.


How do I register and pay for a DSST exam?

 

Registration and payment are completed at the testing center within the testing platform on the day of the exam.
 

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When Do I Find Out My Results?

 

The tests (except for the Principles of Public Speaking test which takes 4 weeks to grade) are automatically graded so you will instantly know if you passed. Test results are generally sent 2-3 weeks after the date of the test.

 

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How are the Tests Scored and Are Retakes Allowed?

 

A score of 400 or higher for the majority of DSST tests is considered passing. The minimum is 200 and the maximum is 600. A score of 400 is comparable to earning a “C” grade on a test which would be considered passing.

DSST tests are pass/fail and do not affect student’s GPAs. Students can retake the DSST tests but must wait 30 days before retaking the same test, and must repay.

 

 

How Many DSST Tests Am I Allowed to Take?

 

Usually, you can only take two exams on any given exam date. Colleges and universities determine their credit own awarding policy for these exams. Contact your school adviser or registrar to learn which exam(s) they agree to award credit for, in lieu of their courses for your degree plan. Keep in mind that credit awarded by one institution, may not be uniformly accepted as a credit transfer by another. 

 

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How Many Times Can I Retake the Same Test?

 

You can retake the same test as many times as you need to, but you must wait 30 days before retaking the test and you must pay for the test again (plus any proctoring fees, if applicable).

 

How Do I Know What Course (or Courses) the DSST test Will Waive?

You can see you school’s catalog or your school’s Testing Center for a list of the tests, score needed, units and courses that each test will waive.
 


Does my School Accepts DSST credit?

 

DSST is accepted at many institutions across the United States. The best way to figure out what credits your school accepts is to research their policies - typically located on their website and/or within a transfer equivalency portal. Examples of transfer equivalency portals include the Transfer Evaluation System from CollegeSource and Transferology.

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DSST Study Guides and Resources

 

You can find study materials through You tube videos, online courses (paid or free) and make your own review materials using Quizlet. Listed below are official study guides provider for DSST exam.

           Peterson’s
           DSSTPrep
           EBSCO LearningExpress
           Prometric
          

What items can I bring to the testing center?

 

If your exam requires the use of a calculator, you may bring a calculator that meets the specifications. For paper-based exams, you may also bring No. 2 pencils with an eraser and black ballpoint pens. Regardless of the exam methodology, you are NOT allowed to bring reference or study materials, scratch paper, electronics such as cell phones, personal handheld devices, cameras, alarm wrist watches, or tape recorders to the testing center.

 

What form of ID should I bring to the testing location when I take a DSST exam?

 

Prior to the test administration, all test takers must present current and valid picture identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or picture student identification.

DANTES funded eligible military test takers must provide a valid Common Access Card (CAC). Only test takers should be permitted into the testing room. Unauthorized visitors are not permitted in the testing room at any time.

 


What if I still have questions?

           

Should you have more questions or need more information, you can contact through one of DSST’s website: https://www.getcollegecredit.com/contact

 

Here are some tips on how to prepare for DSST exams:

 

1. Choose the right study materials. When it comes to preparing for DSST exams, quality study materials are key. There are a number of commercial study guides available, but we recommend using only those that are published by the testing center or endorsed by the organization that administers the exam.

 

2. Make a study schedule and stick to it. One of the most important keys to success on any test is consistent studying over time. When it comes to DSST exams, we recommend setting aside at least three months for study and preparation. During this time, create a schedule

 

 

Tips And Tricks to Improve Your Scores on the DSST

 

The DSST is a computer-based test that is used to measure a student's readiness for college-level coursework. The test is divided into three sections: English, math, and science. Each section contains multiple-choice questions, and the test taker has two hours to complete the entire exam.

 

There are a few things that you can do to prepare for the DSST and improve your score. First, make sure that you understand the material that will be covered on the test. The best way to do this is to take a practice exam or two so that you are familiar with the format and the types of questions that will be asked.

 

Next, brush up on your skills in each subject area. If you need help in math, for example, consider hiring a tutor or taking a refresher course. Don't forget to review basic grammar rules and vocabulary words, as these will be tested on the English section of the DSST.

 

Finally, try to relax and stay calm while taking the test. The more relaxed you are, the better you will be able to focus on the questions at hand. If you start to feel anxious, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that you know the material.
 


Facts About DSST Takers

 

Are you considering taking a DSST exam? Here are some facts that may help you make your decision.

 

1. Over 300,000 students take DSST exams each year.

 

2. DSST exams are offered at over 1,900 colleges and universities.

 

3. DSST exams can be used to earn college credit at over 2,700 colleges and universities.

 

4. DSST exams are accepted by the American Council on Education (ACE) for college credit recommendations.

 

5. The average passing score on a DSST exam is 65%.

 

6. Most DSST exams cost between $80 and $200 to take.

 

7. You can retake a DSST exam if you don't pass it the first time. However, you'll have to wait at least 30 days before retaking the exam, and you'll have to pay the full exam fee again.

 

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Conclusion

 

DSST exams are a great way to earn college credit quickly and easily, but they can be challenging. With the right preparation and study tips, however, you can maximize your chances of success. Be sure to review the material covered in this guide carefully, and take advantage of the resources available to you. With proper planning and execution, you can ace your DSST exam and get ahead in your college career.

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