How do CLEP test work.?

Question

I am a Junior in college. I am wondering how CLEP test work and how the results affect the 4.0 scale. How do I go about using the CLEP tests to finish my degree more efficiently than actually taking the classes?

Answer 1

I took CLEP tests to graduate as a bachelor.  The CLEP tests are simply designed to evaluate whether you understand the material in a particular class.  They are a pass/no pass scenario.  Because of this,  there is not a final grade attached to them and they do not affect your GPA in any way.  However, OF COURSE, they will save you time and money if you pass them.  I believe your school would simply add the credits associated with that course to your overall educational transcripts.  They are a good solution to some of the areas you think you could probably do well in on lower level classes.  If you take them I would definitely recommend getting a CLEP preparation book associated with the class you are trying to complete.  If you can pass the exams after reading the material in the prep book, you'll generally be able to pass the CLEP exam.  I would recommend talking to your curriculum counselor about these exams and what makes sense for your educational path.  Many  times a good counselor will have some ideas about what CLEPs make the most sense and they can probably also offer advise as to which CLEPs are more easily passed than others you are considering.