The American Council on Education (ACE) provides credit recommendations for many forms of prior credit learning, including CLEP and DSST exams. Frequently, they recommend a “minimum qualifying score.” Students often make the mistake of assuming that this minimum qualifying score, or passing score, is enough to get them the credit they desire. Individual institutions, however, have the power to decide what score, if any, will be accepted for credit.
For example, ACE recommends credit be awarded for scaled CLEP scores (all exams) of 50 or higher. Some colleges and universities will require a higher score on a CLEP exam in order to accept your results as a passing score. Make sure to check with your college or university for testing requirements.
Taking the time to study, and performing to one’s ability will benefit students by increasing the likelihood of credit acceptance at a broader range of colleges and universities.