Earn College Credits With DSST Exams
Whether you are contemplating attending Florida Atlantic University (FAU) or are currently enrolled, you can earn up to 45 undergraduate college units toward your bachelor's degree with DSST exams.
DSST exams, formerly known as DANTES (Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support) Subject Standardized Tests, offer a national standardized testing approach that allows students to showcase their understanding of specific subjects by successfully passing a single comprehensive exam.
Recognizing diverse pathways to learning, Florida Atlantic University encourages students to utilize DSST exams as a strategic tool for cost-effective tuition management.
DSST exams expedite progress toward graduation by allowing students to test out of general education courses to earn valuable college credits.
In this comprehensive guide, prospective and current Florida Atlantic University students will gain insights into using DSST exams as an option to fulfill general education requirements and accelerate their academic journey toward an undergraduate degree.
DSST Exams Are Available to Everyone!
DSST Exams: An Option For All Students
Did you know that DSST exams were once only accessible to military personnel?
That's right, it used to be exclusive to a select few.
However, now, these exams are available to everyone.
DSST exams provide a credit-by-examination option to assess students' comprehension of college-level subjects acquired through conventional and non-traditional learning environments.
Instead of committing to a semester-long class, DSST exams empower students to showcase mastery of a subject by passing a final examination.
This adaptable approach allows students to demonstrate proficiency in particular general education subjects without the need for traditional classroom attendance, offering an opportunity to save time and money.
By leveraging DSST exams, individuals with busy schedules and working professionals can independently study and choose an exam date when they feel adequately prepared.
FAU students can strategically use DSST exams to test out of up to 15 undergraduate general education elective courses (45 units) and accelerate the transition into upper-division coursework.
Exploring DSST Exam Opportunities at Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University Cost of Attendance
Florida Atlantic University recognizes the substantial financial investment of pursuing a college education and embraces DSST exams as a valuable method for students to earn credits toward their undergraduate degree.
The total expenses associated with attending Florida Atlantic University encompass various factors, including administrative fees, course materials, living expenses, travel, and additional student-related costs.
Florida Atlantic University Tuition Versus DSST Exam Fees
3 Semester Units Vs. DSST Exam Fees
Most undergraduate general education classes are structured as three (3) semester-hour units.
Let’s compare the approximate cost of a 3-semester-hour unit class at Florida Atlantic University to that of taking an equivalent 3-semester-hour unit DSST exam.
Scroll through the table below.
Description | Unit Type | Cost per Unit | Number of Units | Total Cost | Total Savings |
Florida Atlantic University Tuition: | |||||
Undergraduate General Elective Course | Semester-hour | $203.29 (1 unit)* | 3 | $609.87 | |
DSST Exam Fee: | |||||
DSST Exam | Semester-hour | $100.00 (3 units) | 3 | $100.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $509.87 |
*Non-Florida resident: $721.84 per credit hour. The fee schedule is subject to change within the guidelines approved by the Florida Legislature.
One Resident Undergraduate General Elective Class at Florida Atlantic University:
$203.29 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $609.87
One Non-Resident Undergraduate General Elective Class at Florida Atlantic University:
$721.84 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $2,165.52
Passing one DSST exam awards credit for three (3) semester-hour units:
Regardless of residency status, a non-refundable $100.00 test fee is required to take the exam.
Resident students at Florida Atlantic University will save $509.87 in tuition costs for one 3-semester-hour unit course by testing out with DSST exams.
Non-resident students can save $2,165.52 in tution fees.
15 Semester Units Vs. DSST Exam Fees
Scroll through the table below.
Institution | Semester-Units | Cost Per Unit | Number of Classes | Tuition | DSST Exam Fees | Total Cost | Total Savings |
Florida Atlantic University | 15 | $203.29 | 5 | $3,049.35 | - | $3,049.35 | |
DSST Exams | 15 | $100.00 | 5 | - | $500.00 | $500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $2,549.35 |
A full-time course schedule for undergraduate students typically comprises 15 units (5 classes) per semester. Resident students at Florida Atlantic University can save $2,549.35 in tuition costs.
Non-resident students can save $10,827.60 in tution fees.
45 Semester Units Vs. DSST Exam Fees
Scroll through the table below.
Institution | Semester-Units | Cost Per Unit | Number of Classes | Tuition | DSST Exam Fees | Total | Total Savings |
Florida Atlantic University | 45 | $203.29 | 15 | $9,148.05 | - | $9,148.05 | |
DSST Exams | 45 | $100.00 | 15 | - | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $7,648.05 |
Test Out of 15 Classes
Passing DSST exams can earn students up to 45 college credits (equivalent to 15 classes) towards their baccalaureate degree at Florida Atlantic University.
Resident students can save $7,648.05 in tuition costs and graduate faster.
Non-resident students can save $32,482.80 in tuition fees.
Simplify General Education Requirements
Source: https://www.fau.edu/uas/
Academic Advising
DSST exams allow students to test out of equivalent introductory courses and acquire college credit within a few weeks without attending classes.
Florida Atlantic University provides advising services to first-and second-year students who are unsure where to go for academic guidance and help.
The University Advising Services (UAS) office offers students a broad, comprehensive array of services to help them develop a meaningful education plan.
Website: https://www.fau.edu/uas/
Email: advisingservices@fau.edu
Phone: (561) 297-3064
If you are a new or prospective student, here are helpful links to contact.
Florida Atlantic University Undergraduate Admissions:
Consulting with your academic advisor is essential to avoid duplicating coursework and to clarify the alignment of DSST exams with your degree requirements.
Once you obtain approval, explore our diverse selection of online DSST examination preparation courses to initiate your studies.
Consider taking a complimentary practice test to acquaint yourself with the exam content.
Before taking any DSST exam, it's crucial to contact your academic advisor to confirm and the course credits apply to your degree program.
Which Classes Can I Test Out Of?
FAU DSST Exam Articulation Guidelines
Undergraduate students can earn academic credits by completing a DSST subject exam, as outlined in the table below.
Each passed exam will award three college-level credits, the equivalent of one Florida Atlantic University course.
This information is subject to change, so please get in touch with your academic advisor and review the university catalog for up-to-date information and all relevant policies.
DSST Course Exam | FIU Equivalent Course | DSST Course Credit |
AMH 2059 | 3 units | |
ARH 2000 | 3 units | |
AST 2002 | 3 units | |
GEB 2441 | 3 units | |
Business Math | QMB 1001 | 3 units |
CGS 2000 or CGS 2060 (same as ISM 2000) | 3 units | |
CCJ 1000 | 3 units | |
EVR 1001 | 3 units | |
PHI 1630 | 3 units | |
EDF 1002
| 3 units | |
Fundamentals of College Algebra | MAC 1105 | 3 units |
PCO 2202 | 3 units | |
CIS 2350 or CIS 2354 | 3 units | |
ANT 2000 | 3 units | |
HSC 2100 | 3 units | |
EUH 1066 | 3 units |
MAN 4301 | 3 units | |
GEB 2011 | 3 units | |
GEO 1400 | 3 units | |
GLY 2010C | 3 units | |
CCJ 1100 | 3 units | |
REL 2300 | 3 units | |
DEP 2004 | 3 units | |
Math for Liberal Arts | MGF 1106 | 3 units |
ISM 3011 | 3 units | |
ECO 4223 | 3 units | |
MAN 3025 | 3 units | |
FIN 3140 | 3 units | |
ENC 1101 | 3 units | |
FIN 3403 | 3 units | |
SPC 2608 | 3 units | |
Principles of Statistics | STA 1014 (same as STA 2023) | 3 units |
MNA 1345 | 3 units | |
HSC 1140 | 3 units | |
ENC 1210 | 3 units | |
AMH 1056 | 3 units |
Pro Tip: You must pass and submit your exam scores before your final semester at Florida Atlantic University begins.
DSST Exams Don't Affect Your Grade Point Average (GPA)
Maintain Your GPA
Florida Atlantic University grants college credit for DSST exams with passing scores of 400 points or higher.
The credit awarded for these exams is denoted as a "P" (Pass) grade, and unsuccessful attempts do not impact your GPA.
If you fail your initial attempt to pass, you can retest every 30 days until you achieve a passing score.
DSST exams are designed to evaluate proficiency in college-level subject matter acquired through self-study or practical experience outside traditional classroom settings.
DSST exams consist of 100 multiple-choice questions with four answer choices, and the scoring range is 200 to 500 points.
To achieve a passing score of 400 points or higher, test-takers must accurately answer approximately 58% to 62% of the exam questions.
Where Can I Take My DSST Exam?
Three Testing Options
You have three choices for where to take your DSST exam:
At FAU's test center.
At a Prometric test center.
Remotely online with Prometric.
Let's discuss all three testing options and learn how FAU will receive your DSST exam results.
FAU: Campus Test Centers And Registration Process
Convenient DSST Testing at Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University is committed to supporting students on their path to academic success.
That's why FAU offers two easily accessible DSST test centers on campus.
Boca Raton Testing Center
Located in the heart of FAU's Boca Raton campus, this modern testing facility provides a comfortable and secure environment for DSST exams.
With flexible hours, finding an appointment time that fits your busy schedule is manageable.
Davie Testing Center
The Davie Testing Center offers the same high-quality testing experience for those closer to FAU's Davie campus.
It features the latest testing technology and private testing rooms to minimize distractions.
Open to All
While primarily serving FAU students and faculty, both testing centers welcome community members looking for a convenient location to take their DSST exams.
Easy Registration
Scheduling your DSST exam is simple through FAU's online registration system.
Just select your preferred test date, time, and location. Walk-ins are also accepted based on availability.
By offering two easily accessible, high-quality testing centers, Florida Atlantic University makes it easy for students and community members to take their DSST exams right on campus.
Prepare for success with FAU's exceptional testing services.
Affordable DSST Exam Pricing at FAU
Taking your DSST exam at Florida Atlantic University is cost-effective with straightforward, upfront pricing.
DSST Exam Fee: $100
The standard DSST exam registration fee of $100 is paid directly to the test provider, Prometric, on the day of your exam. This fee covers the cost of the exam itself.
FAU Administration Fee: $25.50
In addition to the exam fee, FAU charges a $25.50 non-refundable administration fee to cover the costs of providing a secure testing environment and proctoring services.
Total Cost: $125.50
So, the total cost for taking a DSST exam at FAU is $125.50—the $100 registration fee to Prometric plus the $25.50 administration fee to the university.
Pay in Two Easy Steps
Pre-register and Pay the $25.50 Administration Fee to FAU. This secures your testing appointment at either the Boca Raton or Davie campus testing center.
Pay the $100 Registration Fee to Prometric. This fee is paid on the day of your exam at the testing center.
With affordable pricing and the convenience of paying in two steps, taking your DSST exam at FAU is an excellent option for budget-conscious students and community members.
Let the knowledgeable FAU testing staff guide you through the simple registration process. Secure your ideal testing appointment today!
FAU Test Center: DSST Score Results
Source: Prometric Test Registration
Test Day
On the day of your exam, you must register for your DSST exam at the test center and input
FAU's 4-digit Institutional Score Recipient Code.
Entering the correct Institutional Score Report Code will ensure that a complimentary transcript of your exam score is sent to Florida International University.
FAU's Institutional Score Report Recipient Code
Score Report Code
Failure to enter the correct Institutional Score Report Code for your school will delay the transmittal of your exam results and may result in an additional cost for a transcript.
Pro Tip:
The Institutional Score Report Recipient Code for Florida Atlantic University is 7726.
You must enter the correct Institutional Score Report Code to ensure your official score report is sent directly to Florida Atlantic University.
In the case of a retake, there is a mandatory waiting period of 30 calendar days, starting from the day after the initial test date.
On the day of your exam, you must register at the test center and enter FAU's 4-digit Institutional Score Recipient Code (7726), which ensures that FAU receives your exam results.
Florida Test Centers: Prometric Registration Process
Prometric DSST Test Centers
As mentioned earlier, you can take your DSST exam at FAU or at a Prometric test center.
When enrolling for a DSST exam, you can choose between two options:
1. Attend the exam at a physical Prometric brick-and-mortar test center.
2. Opt for a remote exam through Prometric.
Each option has its own advantages, and you can easily schedule your exam online for added convenience.
Prometric test centers are conveniently located across the United States, offering flexibility in scheduling and taking your DSST exam.
Pro Tip:
If you take your exam at a Prometric test center (or online remotely), you'll only pay the $100.00 DSST exam fee.
Most Prometric test centers don't charge an additional registration fee.
Prometric Test Centers: Take Your DSST Exam In Person
In-Person Assistance
To schedule and register for your DSST exam in person, you must first locate a nearby testing center and reserve your appointment online.
Arrive Early
On the day of your exam, to ensure a smooth check-in process, it is highly recommended that you arrive at the testing center 30 minutes early with proper forms of required identification.
For a list of Prometric test centers, click here.
Prometric Remote Proctoring: Take Your DSST Exam Online
Take Your Exam Online
Experience the convenience of taking your DSST exam remotely from your personal computer.
A live proctor will monitor you throughout your exam, ensuring a secure testing environment.
Schedule your reservation, sign up for your DSST exam from the comfort of your home, and pick the subject you'd like to test in.
You can choose a suitable test date and pay the exam fee online. This straightforward process puts you in control of your testing experience.
Refer to our post below for detailed instructions on scheduling and taking your exam remotely.
Prometric Test Centers: How Will FAU Receive My DSST Exam Results?
You Must Follow Up with Prometric
Whether you opt for an online or in-person DSST exam, knowing your college or university's 4-digit school code and representing the Institutional Score Recipient Code is essential.
As discussed earlier, FAU will receive a complimentary copy of your exam scores from Prometric using their designated institution's 4-digit score recipient code.
Prometric will send your score report directly to FAU for free.
The processing time for FAU to receive the score report ranges from 3 to 6 weeks.
Once FAU receives your score report, they will apply your units toward your degree program.
Remember, the 4-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code for Florida Atlantic University is 7726.
Contact Prometric
Currently, Prometric doesn't allow you to input your Institutional Score Recipient Code during registration.
Until this feature is available, you must contact them directly for assistance.
Be sure to contact Prometric within two days after taking your exam and provide them with your four-digit institutional score recipient code.
Contact Prometric at:
Toll Free: 1-877-471-9860
Pro Tip: To expedite the processing of your college credits, contact Prometric two days after your exam, providing them with FAU's Institutional Score Recipient Code (7726).
Each time you take a DSST exam, ensure to provide your 4-digit code to Prometric if you wish for your institution to receive your exam results.
How Do I Get Started With DSST Exams?
Getting Started with DSST Exams
Consult your Florida Atlantic University academic advisor to confirm which DSST exams are eligible for your degree requirements.
Study for your DSST exam.
Schedule your final exam with FAU or Prometric.
Successfully pass your DSST exam, save money on tuition, and graduate sooner.
Conclusion
Optimize Your Education at FAU with DSST Exams
DSST exams present a forward-thinking and progressive option for students aiming to optimize their educational journey at Florida Atlantic University.
These nationally recognized exams offer a cost-effective solution to students seeking to expedite their degree, minimize tuition expenses, and uphold a high GPA.
The flexibility inherent in DSST exams enables students to efficiently navigate through general education courses, streamlining their academic path without the commitment of semester-long class attendance.
The financial benefits and the convenience of self-paced study and testing make DSST exams appealing for students looking for an effective and affordable route to graduation.
With Florida Atlantic University fully endorsing this credit-earning opportunity, students are encouraged to confidently explore DSST exams as a prompt, economical, and academically successful approach to their collegiate experience.
If you need any additional assistance, please contact us at support@dssttestprep.com.