What are the benefits of taking CLEP exams?

CLEP exams, which stand for College-Level Examination Program, are standardized tests the College Board offers that allow students to earn college credit for what they already know. By passing a CLEP exam, students can validate knowledge gained independently from classes, work experience, military training, or other means. There are several benefits students can gain from taking CLEP exams.

CLEP exams allow students to earn college credits more quickly and cheaply than traditional courses. Taking a CLEP exam is generally less than half the tuition for an equivalent college course. This can help students save money on overall education costs and graduate sooner. For motivated self-learners, CLEP exams provide an affordable way to earn credits outside the standard classroom setting.
 
CLEP credits are accepted by over 2,900 colleges and universities across the U.S., giving students greater flexibility in transferring credits between institutions. CLEP policies vary between schools, but many will accept minimum CLEP credits as electives or towards general education requirements. This mobility of credits benefits students who start at one school but want options to continue their education elsewhere. It also supports degree completion for military service members and their families who frequently relocate.
 
Students can take CLEP exams in subjects not offered at their school, expanding their elective choices. In many cases, CLEP credits may even fulfil prerequisites so students can progress faster in their programs of study. Overall, CLEP exams provide an adaptable way to earn college-level learning outside the traditional classroom and accelerate students’ academic paths.
 
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How does the ACE evaluate and award credit to courses and educational experiences?

The American Council on Education (ACE) is important in evaluating non-college instructional programs and recommending whether they deserve ACE credit. ACE credit can help adults gain college credit for formal courses and examinations outside traditional degree programs. Through a rigorous review process, the ACE determines the type and amount of ACE credit that should be awarded.

The ACE assembles committees of college faculty with expertise in relevant subject areas to review non-college programs and assessments. Committees examine curricula, faculty credentials, learning outcomes, student assessment methods, and other factors. On-site visits and interviews may also occur. This comprehensive review evaluates subject content and academic rigour relative to similar college courses.
 
The committee assesses the recommended ACE credit after reviewing a program's instructional materials and methods. Credit can be awarded for lower and upper-level Associate's or Bachelor's degree standards. Specific credit recommendations indicate transferability and equivalence to introductory or advanced college coursework. Credit is assigned to 12 hours or less, spanning 20 different subject areas like Mathematics, Biological Sciences, or Business Ethics.
 
Military training, certification programs, e-learning, corporate training, and other alternative educational experiences can be submitted to ACE for credit evaluation. Thousands of programs are reviewed annually, resulting in official ACE credit recommendations. Colleges generally accept these recommended credits towards degree requirements at their own discretion, allowing recognition of prior college-level learning gained externally. ACE credit opens opportunities for faster degree completion through an alternative credit option respected across higher education institutions.

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