Is DSST for me?

December 27, 2022

When people hear about DSST credit-by-exam for the first time, a “Huh?” or “Really?!” often follows. Not only are they surprised that earning college credit can be so affordable and convenient, but they are delighted to learn that DSST credits are accepted by thousands of reputable colleges and universities. This is why our tests are perfect for adult students, working parents, military members, veterans, and anyone who values earning college credit on their own schedule. Truthfully, we know it can take a moment to understand that there’s no catch to our program, and that it’s not too good to be true. If you’re one of the many people wondering if DSST is right for you, we can help you figure it out with three simple numbers.

$80

This is how much most of our tests cost.  Pass one, and you’ll earn three college credits. Yes, we can repeat that. By passing a DSST test, you will earn three college credits for just $80. On average, earning three college credits the traditional way (sitting in a classroom for a semester) costs $750. Additionally, if you’re an active service member in the U.S. military, our tests are completely free for the first attempt. Even though the $80 price tag is what usually turns heads first, we’re just as proud of our next two numbers.

1900

This is roughly how many higher education institutions accept DSST credit. Each of these highly regarded schools understands the value in letting current, returning, or transfer students “test out” of subject matter they’ve already mastered. They know that DSST tests encourage students to reach for higher level classes, finish their degrees, and set themselves up for successful careers. Here’s a sampling of the schools that accept DSST credit, allowing you to pursue your degree faster and more affordably.

Colgate University

Johns Hopkins University

University of Maryland University College

George Washington University

Virginia Commonwealth University

Georgia State University

Texas A&M

Colorado State University

Antioch University Los Angeles

Strayer University

University of Phoenix

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Before you take your DSST test, we highly recommend you contact your desired institution to confirm they accept DSST credit, and that your specific test will count toward your degree.

As far as actually taking your test, we’re proud to provide test centers across the country, including at universities and military bases. Click here to find the most convenient test center for you.

36

This is how many exams we offer, covering a full range of higher education subject areas, including Social Sciences, Math, Applied Technology, Business, Physical Sciences, and Humanities. Whether you’re sure of your career path or you’re still exploring different fields, taking a DSST test is a great way to confirm your knowledge around a certain topic- and get credit for it! Here’s the full list of our current exams, each worth the same credit as taking an equivalent course:

  • A History of the Vietnam War
  • Art of the Western World
  • Astronomy
  • Business Ethics and Society
  • Business Mathematics
  • Computing and Information Technology
  • Criminal Justice
  • Environment and Humanity: The Race to Save the Planet
  • Ethics in America
  • Foundations of Education
  • Fundamentals of College Algebra
  • Fundamentals of Counseling
  • Fundamentals of Cybersecurity
  • General Anthropology
  • Health & Human Development
  • History of the Soviet Union
  • Human Resource Management
  • Human/Cultural Geography
  • Introduction to Business
  • Introduction to Law Enforcement
  • Introduction to World Religions
  • Lifespan Developmental Psychology
  • Management Information Systems
  • Math for Liberal Arts
  • Money and Banking
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Personal Finance
  • Principles of Advanced English Composition
  • Principles of Finance
  • Principles of Physical Science I
  • Principles of Public Speaking
  • Principles of Statistics
  • Principles of Supervision
  • Substance Abuse
  • Technical Writing
  • The Civil War and Reconstruction

Click here to learn more about each test, view suggested reading, take practice tests, and more.