CLEP and AP Exams Accelerate College, Keep Costs Down

CLEP stands for College Level Examination Program. It is a program that tests student mastery of concepts taught in conventional higher ed classrooms, and grants college credit for passing. In 2012, around 76,000 students passed CLEP exams, earning credit at many universities and colleges. Additionally, earning CLEP credits usually costs less than $100. With college costs rising rapidly, the low cost of CLEP credits is extremely appealing.

Ways to Earn CLEP Credit             

Some people take CLEP exams after having excelled in high school courses, such as higher level foreign language courses. Others take online classes, such as inexpensive online classes offered by companies like StraighterLine and then take the CLEP exam to earn credit at the college or university where they're pursuing a degree. Some people are even able to take advantage of "real life" learning to earn CLEP credit.

What Are AP Classes?

AP, or Advanced Placement courses are taken by highly motivated high school students who want to earn high school and college credits at the same time. AP classes are challenging courses, but upon completing AP classes and passing AP exams, the student can use AP credits as college credits. AP classes are also great for preparing high school students for college-level work and study habits.

AP Classes Are a Great Way to Jumpstart College

Students who earn a handful of AP credits are able to get freshman-level prerequisites out of the way and accelerate their college education. They also save money by not having to pay for the credit hours they would have had to pay for had they not earned AP credit. AP credits make it easier to advance toward a major, pursue a double major, or simply have time for classes that are of interest.

CLEP, AP, and Online Classes: A Winning Combination

Students who take advantage of CLEP exams and AP courses save money and time when it comes to college. Taking online classes, like those offered through StraighterLine, is another way students can earn college credits conveniently and at a competitive cost. Today's college student often juggles many competing demands, but they still have options for saving time and money.