How can I start earning college credit with CLEP?

Modified on Fri, Jul 17 at 5:26 PM

Yes — you can start earning college credit without enrolling in a class first. CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) exams from College Board let you earn college credit by passing a single exam in a subject you know or are ready to learn. Modern States offers free online courses that prepare you for CLEP exams, so you can begin today at no cost.


What is CLEP?

CLEP is a credit-by-examination program accepted at 2,900+ colleges and universities. Instead of taking a full semester course, you study a subject, take one CLEP exam, and — if your score meets your college's requirements — you may receive college credit for that course. Exams cover subjects like College Composition, U.S. History, College Algebra, Psychology, Spanish, and many more.


How Modern States helps

Modern States is a nonprofit dedicated to making a college degree more affordable and accessible. Here is how it works:


Free online courses. Every course is taught by college professors and matched to a CLEP exam.
Self-paced learning. Start anytime, study on your own schedule, and move as quickly or slowly as you need.
The Modern States CLEP Scholarship. After completing a course and its practice questions, eligible learners can receive a voucher code that covers the cost of the CLEP exam, which you enter during College Board registration.


What to do next

Browse the free courses and pick a subject you feel confident about — many learners start with a subject they already know well.

Explore free CLEP prep courses »


Important note

CLEP credit policies vary by institution. Before scheduling an exam, confirm with your college or university which CLEP exams they accept, the scores required, and how the credit applies to your degree.


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