CLEP exams are one of the fastest, cheapest, and smartest ways to earn college credits - before paying college tuition prices. If you’re looking to reduce cost, time-to-degree, or both, this guide breaks down exactly how CLEP works, who benefits most, and how to maximize credit transfer using our return on education (RoEDU™) metric.
CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) exams are standardized tests administered by the College Board that allow students to earn college credits by proving mastery of a subject. Instead of taking a full semester of coursework, you can test out in as little as 90 minutes.
Key facts:
Learn about other exam-based credit options in our Credits for College Guide.
CLEP directly supports smarter educational investment. For students trying to balance affordability with degree completion, CLEP provides outsized RoEDUâ„¢ value.
$93 CLEP cost vs the typical 3-credit course cost of $1,200–$1,800.
Because CLEP replaces expensive general education courses, it often delivers one of the strongest RoEDUâ„¢ improvements available.
Explore how we calculate educational return using RoEDUâ„¢.
CLEP boosts RoEDUâ„¢ because it:
Earning even 12–18 CLEP credits can translate to thousands in savings. A significant RoEDU™ lift.
CLEP lets motivated high school or dual-enrollment students earn real college credits early.
Adult Learners
CLEP offers flexible, low-cost acceleration for adults balancing work, family, and school.
Servicemembers often qualify for exam fee reimbursement, and military-friendly schools tend to accept CLEP widely. Explore benefits in our Military College Benefits Guide.
Community college students can bank CLEP credits before transferring. Check out our College Transfer Guide for strategy tips.
Over 2,900 U.S. colleges accept CLEP credits, though policies vary widely.
Be sure to confirm:
Use our Transfer Credit Tool to verify your school’s rules.
CLEP exams cover five major categories:
Most exams are 90 minutes with computer-based multiple-choice questions.
CLEP exams test for mastery equivalent to a final exam. Preparation typically takes 2–6 weeks depending on your background and familiarity with the subject material.
CLEP works best when mapped to degree requirements. It’s especially effective for replacing:
| Credit Type | Cost | Difficulty | Transfer Reliability | Best For |
| CLEP | Low | Moderate | High | Adults, homeschool, high school students, military |
| AP | Medium–High | High | Very High | Traditional high school students |
| DSST | Moderate | Moderate | Medium–High | Military, adult learners |
| Prior Learning Credit | Varies | Varies | Medium | Working professionals |
Most colleges allow 12–45 CLEP credits, though some programs permit more. The more credits you can safely apply toward degree progress, the higher your RoEDU™ potential.
Using CLEP credits can meaningfully shorten your degree timeline:
Earlier graduation also accelerates workforce entry, improving long-term RoEDUâ„¢.
Military students often receive:
Explore more with our Military College Benefits Guide.
CLEP may not work if:
CLEP remains one of the most effective tools available for boosting educational efficiency and reducing cost. With smart planning, students can significantly improve their RoEDUâ„¢ by earning credit through low-cost, high-impact CLEP exams.
To learn how CLEP fits into a broader strategy for increasing educational return, explore RoEDUâ„¢.