subject: Clep Tests Are More Efficient Than High School Ap Classes [print this page] High school students who are interested in earning college credit before they graduate from high school have traditionally been offered AP, or Advance Placement, courses to help them. Very few students or parents are aware that CLEP exams offer the same opportunity for college advancement. There are 34 different CLEP exams available through the College Level Examination Program, and each test offers legitimate college credit that is accepted by almost every accredited college and university in the United States.
AP Courses Can Be Time Intensive
High school AP classes are far more challenging for students than normal classes. They generally have more homework and require more study time. If an advanced student spent a fraction of the time that an AP class requires studying the subjects that are tested through the CLEP program, that student would have the opportunity to gain college credit without sacrificing all of their free time and energy to a single high school class. Since CLEP credit takes the place of a college course, it is a more direct way to earn college credit without giving up the unique opportunities for fun and friendship that are available during high school.
CLEP Offers Real College Credit
Many AP classes offer partial college credit, or give you a head start toward a college course. CLEP exams are legitimate college course replacements. When you pass a CLEP test, it is the exact equivalent of passing a college class. It is possible for a student to use the CLEP program to get through all of their general education requirements so that they can concentrate solely on the courses that are focused specifically on the degree they plan to earn. Not all schools accept AP as a replacement for college classes, but the majority of schools recognize the validity of a CLEP exam.
CLEP Scores are Widely Accepted
Passing a CLEP test is recognized as college credit by colleges throughout the United States. There are also some international higher education institutions that recognize the validity of CLEP exams. If you are a high school student who plans to attend college, it is worth the time to look into the CLEP acceptance options at the colleges you are most interested in. You will find that most general education requirements can be satisfied through passing the tests that are offered through the CLEP program.
AP Tests are More Expensive
After you spend two semesters working toward a grade in a fast-paced AP class, you still have to take an AP test to qualify for any college credit. AP tests can cost $100 or more. CLEP offers you a better opportunity for college credits, and they cost less than the majority of AP tests cost. The study materials for a CLEP exam can be found at local libraries or used book stores. Since you can study at your own pace and use your own study style, you will be better prepared for your CLEP exam. CLEP is also a less stressful testing situation than AP exams.
