Editing College Level Examination Program (section)

==Overview==
: ''The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a group of standardized tests that assess college-level knowledge in several subject areas. Many colleges grant credit to students who meet their minimum qualifying score. Qualifying scores vary by school but are typically 50. The tests are useful for students who have obtained knowledge outside the classroom, such as through independent study, job experience, or cultural interaction. CLEP also offers international and homeschooled students the opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency in subject areas and bypass undergraduate coursework.''

: ''Source: Wikipedia''

CLEPs are created and administered by the College Board, the same organization that develops the SAT and [[Advanced Placement|AP]] tests. There are many CLEP tests available covering a large variety of subjects including composition, literature, history, social sciences, math, science, business administration, foreign languages, and more. Most tests cover the equivalent of a semester course in the same subject and are worth 3 credits each, though some are more comprehensive (broad, not deep) covering 2 semesters in a subject and are worth 6 credits each. The tests are computerized, and you get your score immediately after completing the test.

To take a CLEP test you must find a local testing center in your area that will administer the test. Pretty much any college nearby will do, but don't forget to check your local library as well because that may be another option.

A common question is "What is the minimum passing score for X?" Each school sets its own minimum passing score, but many accept the recommended passing score provided by College Board.

=== Big 3 Acceptance ===
As of January 2021, [[Charter Oak State College|COSC]], [[Thomas Edison State University|TESU]], and [[Excelsior College|Excelsior]] still accept CLEP exams. However, TESU and COSC both limit students to 90 credits from alternate sources. This includes CLEP exams as well as credits from [[American Council on Education|ACE]] and [[National College Credit Recommendation Service|NCCRS]] recommended courses. Students must be strategic with their choice of CLEP exams in order to ensure that they will be able to complete the degree that they are seeking.