Credit by CLEP Exam
Another alternative way to earn Penn State credit toward the ESP degree is through the College-Level Exam Program, or CLEP.
CLEP exams are computer-based exams generally consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions. Foreign language CLEP exams may also have some listening sections. Study guides and other materials are available to help you prepare for the exam.
Similar to transfer credits, while the credit is awarded, a grade is not. Your grade point average will not be affected by any CLEP credits you earn.
Is CLEP testing right for me? Good question!
- Inexpensive alternative for earning credits: CLEP exams cost just $77 each. This can be an affordable way to meet some of your degree requirements.
- Flexible timing: with CLEP exams, you can get the study materials, go through them on your own schedule and time frame, and take the exam when you feel ready. This may also be an attractive option if you just miss a deadline for starting courses in a particular semester, but are anxious to get started.
To learn more about CLEP exams at Penn State, go to the Penn State Continuing Education CLEP Page.
What ESP degree requirements can I fulfill with CLEP testing at Penn State?
The courses listed below fulfill requirements for the ESP program and are eligible for CLEP testing.
| ESP Requirement | CLEP Exam Available |
|---|---|
| Foreign Language (12) | FR 001 FR 002 FR 003 (4 credits each) |
| GER 001 GER 002 GER 003 (4 credits each) |
|
| SPAN 001 SPAN 002 SPAN 003 (4 credits each) |
|
| Economics (GS) | ECON 002 ECON 004 (3 credits each) |
| History (GH, IL) | HIST 001 HIST 002 (3 credits each) |
| Sociology (GS) | SOC 001 (3 credits) |
| Math (GQ) | MATH 021 (3 credits) MATH 041 (3 credits) MATH 140 (4 credits) |
*Note: Eligible military personnel qualify for free CLEP exams. Learn more about CLEP testing for military personnel and veterans.
Limitations of credits by CLEP examination:
- the credit must be useful in the student's program of study
- duplicate credit in the same subject will not be awarded in any case
- the total number of credits that may be awarded is 60