The Catholic University of America

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Program:

Standardized Examinations

CLEP

The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through computer based testing of undergraduate level college courses. CLEP examinations are 90 minutes long and are offered in 34 subject areas. These exams, with the exception of the English Composition exam with Essay, are made up primarily of multiple-choice questions.

For CLEP exam titles and their MSPS course equivalents, please click here. For descriptions and study materials for all CLEP examinations, please visit The College Board website.

DSST

The Dantes Standardized Tests (DSST) provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through both paper and internet-based testing of undergraduate level college courses. DSST exams are typically two hours long and are offered in 37 subject areas. These exams are made up primarily of multiple-choice questions.

For DSST exam titles and their MSPS course equivalents, please click here. For descriptions and study materials for all DSST examinations, please visit the DSST Program website.

CLEP and DSST exams are offered on campus, three times a year (March, July and November) to all eligible MSPS students. For upcoming exam dates, please see our Programs and Events Calendar.

 

Procedure for taking the CLEP or DSST exams at MSPS:

1. Fill out a CLEP or DSST application and bring it to Pangborn Hall, room 334, or fax it to us at 202-319-6032.

2. Confirm receipt of your application via email.

3. Study! You can download study guides from the CLEP and DSST websites.

4. On test day, arrive one half hour early with two (2) forms of identification including a government-issued photo ID, such as your driver's license.

5. Pay the test fee for CLEP via credit card, check or money order (payable to CLEP). Pay the test fee for DSST via credit card only through a secure web-browser. An administrative fee of $15 is payable to MSPS by cash or check only.

Awards of credit are contingent upon advisor approval. Please note that CLEP and DSST credits are categorized as transfer credits and are subject to the transfer credit guidelines. For specific details on how CLEP and DSST credits might fit into your degree plan, please contact your MSPS academic advisor.

For questions regarding CLEP and DSST exams,

contact the MSPS PLA Program Coordinator.