CLEP Test Overview and Free Practice Questions
The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows students to demonstrate their knowledge of introductory college subjects. A qualifying score may help a student earn college credit, satisfy a course requirement, or move into a more advanced course.
Each college sets its own CLEP policies. Before registering, verify that your college accepts the exam, what score is required, how many credits are awarded, and how those credits apply to your degree.
Can CLEP Exams Earn College Credit?
Approximately 2,900 colleges and universities award credit for at least some CLEP exams. However, policies vary. A score accepted by one institution may not qualify for credit at another.
- Whether the exact CLEP exam is accepted
- The minimum qualifying score
- The number of credit hours awarded
- How the credit applies to your degree
- Any residency or duplicate-credit restrictions
Free CLEP Practice Questions
Select a subject below to view free practice questions and answer explanations.
Composition and Literature
History and Social Sciences
Science and Mathematics
How to Take a CLEP Exam
- Choose an exam. Select a subject that matches your existing knowledge or planned study.
- Check your college’s policy. Verify that the exam is accepted and confirm the required score and credit award.
- Register. Purchase the exam through the My CLEP student portal.
- Schedule the exam. Contact an authorized test center or choose remote proctoring when eligible.
- Prepare and test. Review the official exam outline and practice answering questions without notes.
CLEP Format and Scores
Question format
CLEP exams are computer-based and primarily contain multiple-choice questions. College Composition and Spanish with Writing also include written responses.
Scores
CLEP scaled scores range from 20 to 80. The American Council on Education generally recommends a score of 50 for credit, but each college sets its own requirements.
Testing options
CLEP exams are offered throughout the year at authorized testing centers. Remote-proctored testing may also be available to eligible test takers who meet College Board’s technical and testing-room requirements.
CLEP Benefits for Military Test Takers
DANTES may fund the first attempt for each CLEP exam title for eligible actively serving members of the United States military. Retests are not funded. Eligibility and administration-fee rules vary, so review current DANTES requirements before registering.
Common CLEP Questions
Does every college accept CLEP credit?
No. Each college determines which exams it accepts, the qualifying scores, the credits awarded, and how those credits apply to a degree.
Does a score of 50 guarantee college credit?
No. A score of 50 is the general ACE credit recommendation. Individual institutions may require a different score or decline to award credit for a particular exam.
When are CLEP scores available?
Scores for most CLEP exams are available immediately after testing. College Composition and Spanish with Writing scores take longer because their written responses must be evaluated.
Official CLEP Resources
CLEP and College-Level Examination Program are registered trademarks of College Board. College Board is not affiliated with StudyGuideZone and does not endorse this website.