CLEP

AP

DE

What does it stand for?

College-Level Examination Program

Advanced Placement

Dual Enrollment

Who administers it?

The College Board

The College Board

State of Florida

What is it?

A series of exams in 34 foundational content areas

A series of classes and exams in 38 content areas, including fine arts

Take college courses while in high school

Who accepts the credits?

2900 colleges nationwide

Most colleges nationwide

All Florida state schools (others may accept transfer credit)

How much does it cost?

$89 (paid by student)

$94 (usually paid by h.s.)

n/a

What does it involve?

Sitting for a 2-hour, multiple-choice test at an official CLEP testing center

Completing a year-long academic class, then sitting for a 3-hour, multiple-choice and extended-response exam at your high school

Enrolling in and passing a college course, either on your h.s. campus or the college’s campus

What are the benefits?

·    Oldest college credit program

·    Exam only — no course to take/pass

·    Receive scores immediately

·    Provides “jump-start” on college

·    Offers a full year of prep

·    Replaces regular h.s. courses

·    Looks good on college app

·    Provides “jump-start” on college

·    Usually paid for by h.s.

·    Gives experience with college-level coursework

·    Course only — no additional exam

·    Free for Florida students

·    Real college courses

·    Huge number of courses available

·    Can earn an AA degree while still in high school

What are the potential drawbacks?

·    Not universally accepted

·    Offers least prep

·    Must pay for it yourself

·    Difficult final exam

·    Increased workload during the year

·    Less effective if taken online

·    Colleges may offer credits OR advanced placement, but may not grant both

·    Miss content in replaced h.s. classes

·    May require extra time and money for travel to college campus

·    Less “safety net” compared to high school classes

Good for …

Independent learners with advanced content knowledge in their intended area of study who want to just take a test and skip the classes.

Highly motivated high school students who like extra rigor and challenge and who thrive in high-pressure academic situations.

Hardworking, independent students who want to go to college and can benefit from free credits and reduced time-to-degree.

Where can I find more info?

http://clep.collegeboard.org

http://ap.collegeboard.org

Talk to your high school guidance counselor.