How to get college credits through DSST and DANTES programs

WHAT IT IS

The U.S. Government, with the goal of helping those who have served in the military, has created a program designed to make it easier to get a college degree. The program, called DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) allows those who have served in the military to obtain college credits by taking exams testing existing knowledge.

The DSST program was originated by the United States Department of Defense's Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program. The DSST program is an extensive series of 38 examinations in college subject areas. These tests are frequently used in conjunction with CLEP (College Level Examination Program) tests by students pursuing college degrees in non-traditional formats.

Of course, the large advantage to taking the exams is to get a leg-up on college credits, and potentially obtain a degree in less time, and at less cost.

The Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) helps Service members and Veterans pursue their educational goals and earn degrees or certifications both during and after their service. DANTES is a Department of Defense agency that provides leadership and support for this important effort through partnerships across the education community.

ADVANTAGES

As mentioned above, the large advantage to taking the exams is to get a leg-up on college credits, and potentially obtain a degree in less time, and at less cost. Going into a degree program with college credits already earned can cut months off degree completion requirements. Not only is the total time to obtain a degree lessened, but in addition, you will save the time it takes to sit through a course as well as the additional dollars spent on tuition.

Further, the program is available not only to veterans, but also to active military, allowing you to further your educational goals while in the service – whether you are deployed or located on a military base.

For over 30 years, DANTES has offered and supported voluntary educational programs on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense. In 2006, DANTES authorized up-front funding of DSST exam fees for eligible military members at authorized National Test Centers that administer the Internet-based DSST exams. Through the authorized testing facilities of the National Testing Centers, Simplex United, being one, increased access to the DSST exams makes it easier than ever for service members to gain valuable educational credentials while on active duty, regardless of post-military plans.

While the exams are funded for active-duty military and their spouses, DSST tests are not just for those in the military. Adult learners, homeschooled students, and military veterans are also eligible to earn college credits through DSST.

Credit by Examination Will Help:

• Earn credits for previously learned knowledge
• Reach career goals through furthering your education without taking time off from work to be a full-time student
• Gain confidence performing at a college level
• Improve your chances for college admission by having DSST exam transcripts in your admissions portfolio
• Maximize tuition assistance to enroll in more advanced-level courses
• Make up for missed courses
• Graduate in a shorter period of time

HOW IT WORKS

Enrolled Students and Adult Learners can choose which exams are relevant to the degree they are pursuing or the experience they’ve had. Contact your individual college or university to learn about their credit awarding policy. You can then download the Test Taker Information Bulletin which contains an outline of all DSST exams available with recommended study material.

Earn credits for a passing score and spend your time and tuition dollars on courses you really need to take. Now that’s what we call accelerating your degree!

Homeschooled Students can also continue the Path into Higher Education. The DSST Credit by Exam Program gives you the ability to obtain college credit for subjects you already know or may choose to learn on your own. Recommended for college credit by the American Council on Education (ACE), DSST exams are a great way to build your portfolio as you prepare to start college.

Already in college? Discuss credit by examination with your advisor and select the DSST exams that best match your college curriculum. Then, use your self-studying skills to knock a class (or more) out of the way. DSST Credit by Exam Program is the perfect fit!

Over 1,900 Institutions across the United States accept DSSTs for credit. Check the DSST database to look for the schools you are interested in and see if they accept DSST for college credit. Can't find your school of choice? Call the school's admissions department or the college advisor's office and request they accept DSST Credit by Exam Program for college credit. Schools can contact DSST directly as well.

Getting the education you want should be a straightforward process. DANTES provides information, resources, and programs that allow you to pursue your goal - all with the flexibility to accommodate individual needs and circumstances.

Contact us today for further information 909-795-4979