A faster, cheaper way to finish College

@K46620 (1986)
United States
March 10, 2009 9:33am CST
I have been a college student since Nov./Dec. 2008 and I am taking a different approach to my studies. Instead of enrolling in a college to spend 4-5 years and up to $200,000 on a bachelor's degree, I have opted to take College Board's CLEP tests to save time and money. These CLEP (College Level Examination Program) tests enable you to gain your knowledge outside of the class room and then take the test and receive credit. There are about 2,900 institutions that award college credit for these tests. There are 34 different exams available. Each costs only $90 plus the testing center fee. Most of them are worth 3 credits each, but five of them are worth 6. There are a few other tests including DANTES, but primarily I will be taking CLEPs to complete my degree. I have taken 4 tests so far for a total of 12 credits. I think they are quite easy, especially compared to the SAT. The tests are computerized and last 90 minutes each. I really like these tests as they give me the opportunity to study material on my own at my own pace. I will be taking enough CLEPs and DANTES to give me around 90 credits, or 75% of my degree! As a result, I may be able to complete my degree in 2-2.5 years for about $16,000. While many colleges only accept a limited number of CLEP credits, Thomas Edison State College does not have a limit and is where I plan to enroll after I finish the tests. I will then complete the rest of my degree online. It is surprising that no discussions about CLEP have been started here, so I assume most of you have never heard of these. They are such a great option, if you are considering college you should check these things out- you could save a lot of time and money.
2 responses
@a638000 (219)
• China
10 Mar 09
I think it's a good way for you to finish your college . but it doesn't fit me. because i can't get the bachelor's degree. my university require that we must study for four years , you can't graduation although you are the best in your college..hehe ..so wo must study day by day .and past every exam... enjoy mylotting !welcome to my page!
@K46620 (1986)
• United States
10 Mar 09
Well, I am not sure what you meant when you said, "because i can't get the bachelor's degree." Please elaborate. Happy MyLotting!
@baileycows (3665)
• United States
10 Mar 09
WOW where in the world are you going that you have to spend 200K on your bachelors. WOW! I took alot of CLEP test myself, but I am nowhere close to 200K. I graduate in 3 wks.
@K46620 (1986)
• United States
10 Mar 09
I put $200K because that's probably one of the highest prices you can pay, I realize that the average may be closer to $100K. What degree are you working towards? That's cool you were able to take a lot of CLEPs.