The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) gives you the opportunity to receive college credit for what you already know by earning qualifying scores on any of 34 examinations. Earn credit for knowledge you've acquired through independent study, prior course work, on-the-job training, professional development, cultural pursuits, or internships. A service of the College Board, CLEP can help you save time and money.
CLEP Exam Subjects and Format
CLEP exams can be taken at a testing center or online with remote proctoring. The exams are available in five subject areas: business, composition and literature, world languages, history and social sciences, and science and mathematics. Exams last about 90 minutes and are mainly multiple choice, with some fill-in and some listening sections for foreign languages. Scores are provided to test-takers at the completion of most exams. A score of 50 is needed to attain college credits.
Credit Amounts Awarded for CLEP Exams
You can earn 3 to 12 credits for each exam, which can be applied toward Penn State degree programs. To learn how CLEP credits are awarded at Penn State, refer to the Undergraduate Admissions Office website.
Costs and Locations
Each CLEP exam has a $90 exam fee in addition to your test center or remote proctoring administration fee.
There are more than 1,400 CLEP testing centers throughout the United States. Find a CLEP testing center near you.
Important Information for Military and Veteran Students
CLEP exams are free for eligible military personnel and eligible civilian employees. Military veterans can seek reimbursement from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for CLEP exams and fees. Learn more about CLEP for military service members and veterans.
