Graduate Faster: How DSST Exams Can Save You Time and Money at Florida State College at Jacksonville
Are you considering attending Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) or are you currently enrolled as a student?
Did you know you can earn up to 45 undergraduate semester units towards your degree with DSST exams?
DSST exams (formerly DANTES [Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support] Subject Standardized Test) represent a national standardized testing approach that allows students to demonstrate their comprehension of specific subjects by successfully passing a single comprehensive exam.
Florida State College at Jacksonville recognizes various pathways to learning and encourages students to leverage DSST exams for cost-effective tuition management to expedite their progress toward graduation.
This comprehensive guide will enlighten prospective and existing students on how to utilize DSST exams as an option to test out of general education courses and earn college credits.
DSST Exams at FSCJ
DSST Exams: DANTES Subject Standardized Test
DSST exams offer credit-by-examination to evaluate students' understanding of college-level topics acquired through conventional and non-traditional learning environments.
Rather than attending a semester-long class, DSST exams empower students to demonstrate mastery of a particular subject by successfully passing a final examination.
This adaptable approach enables students to showcase proficiency in specific general education subjects without the obligation of traditional classroom attendance, offering an opportunity to save both time and money.
By leveraging DSST exams, busy students and working professionals can independently study and select an exam date when they feel adequately prepared.
Highly motivated students can utilize DSST exams as a strategic means to expedite the completion of up to 15 undergraduate courses (45 units) to fulfill general education requirements and accelerate the transition into upper-division coursework at Florida State College at Jacksonville.
DSST exams allow students to test out of courses and accelerate their studies to acquire college credit.
Florida State College at Jacksonville Tuition Versus DSST Exam Fees
Florida State College at Jacksonville recognizes the substantial financial investment associated with pursuing a college education and embraces DSST exams as a valuable method for students to earn credits and shorten the time required to complete a baccalaureate degree.
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 course at Florida State College at Jacksonville to the cost 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 State College at Jacksonville Tuition: | |||||
Undergraduate General Elective Class | Semester-hour | $116.52(1 unit)* | 3 | $349.56 | |
DSST Exam Fees: | |||||
DSST Exam | Semester-hour | $100.00 (3 units) | 3 | $100.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $249.56 |
*Non-Florida resident: $401.27 per credit hour. The fee schedule is subject to change within the guidelines approved by the Florida Legislature.
One Undergraduate General Elective Class at Florida State College at Jacksonville:
$116.52 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $349.56
One Non-Resident General Elective Florida State College at Jacksonville:
$401.27 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $1,203.81
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 the FSCJ will save $249.56 in tuition costs for one 3-semester-hour unit course by testing out with DSST exams.
Non-resident students can save $1,103.81 per 3-semester-hour course.
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 DSST Savings |
Florida State College at Jacksonville | 15 | $116.52 | 5 | 1,747.80 | - | $1,747.80 | |
DSST Exams | 15 | $100.00 | 5 | - | $500.00 | $500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $1,247.80 |
Test Out of 5 Classes
A full-time course schedule for undergraduate students typically comprises 15 units (5 classes) per semester.
Resident students will save over $1,247.80 in tuition costs at FSCJ.
Non-resident students can save $5,519.05.
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 Cost | Total Savings |
Florida State College at Jacksonville | 45 | $116.52 | 15 | $5,243.40 | - | $5,243.40 | |
DSST Exams | 45 | $100.00 | 15 | - | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $3,743.40 |
Test Out of 15 Classes
Students can obtain up to 45 college credit units (15 classes) at Florida State College at Jacksonville for a baccalaureate degree by passing DSST exams.
By utilizing DSST exams, resident students could save $3,743.40 in tuition costs and graduate 18 months faster.
Non-resident students could save over $16,557.15 in tuition and fees.
Which Courses Can I Test Out of at FSCJ?
Students can earn college credits by completing an equivalent DSST subject exam, as outlined in the table below.
DSST Exams Articulation Guidelines: Florida State College at Jacksonville
DSST Course Exam | FSCJ Course Equivalent Course | DSST Course Credit |
AMH 2020 | 3 units | |
ARH 2000 | 3 units | |
AST 2002 | 3 units | |
MAN 3065 | 3 units | |
Business Mathematics | OST 1324 | 3 units |
CGS 1060C | 3 units | |
CCJ 1020 | 3 units | |
EVR 1001 | 3 units | |
PHI 2603 | 3 units | |
EDF 1005 | 3 units | |
Fundamentals of College Algebra | MAC 1105 | 3 units |
EPD 2002 | 3 units | |
DSC 2570 | 3 units | |
ANT 2410 | 3 units | |
HSC 3624 | 3 units | |
EUH 1001 | 3 units |
MAN 4301 | 3 units | |
GEB 1011 | 3 units | |
GEO 2420 | 3 units | |
GYL 1010C | 3 units | |
CCJ 1020 | 3 units | |
REL 2300 | 3 units | |
DEP 2004 | 3 units | |
ISM 4011 | 3 units | |
Math for Liberal Arts | MGF 1106 | 3 units |
FIN 2100 | 3 units | |
INP 1390 | 3 units | |
FIN 2000 | 3 units | |
TBD | 3 units | |
FIN 2000 | 3 units | |
SPC 2608 | 3 units | |
Principles of Statistics | STA 2023 | 3 units |
MAN 2125 | 3 units | |
HLP 1082 | 3 units | |
ENC 2210 | 3 units | |
AMH 2020 | 3 units |
Pro Tip: College credits earned by passing DSST exams at FSCJ cannot exceed 45 units (15 courses) for a baccalaureate degree.
Streamline Your General Education with DSST Exams
Academic Success Coach
Navigating general education requirements can be daunting, but DSST exams offer a streamlined solution.
Before diving in, it's crucial to consult with your academic advisor.
They can ensure you avoid duplicating coursework and clarify how DSST exams align with your specific degree requirements.
When you're ready to study, you can explore our diverse selection of online DSST preparation courses.
These courses provide a structured approach to kickstart your studies and equip you with the knowledge necessary to excel on the exams.
To gauge your readiness, consider taking a complimentary practice test.
This invaluable resource allows you to familiarize yourself with the exam content and format, boosting your confidence and increasing your chances of success.
By leveraging DSST exams, you can efficiently fulfill general education requirements, freeing up time and resources to focus on your major coursework and other academic pursuits.
Embrace this opportunity to simplify your educational journey and accelerate your progress toward earning your degree.
Before taking any DSST exam, it's crucial to contact your academic advisor to confirm and the course credits apply to your degree program.
Maintain Your Grade Point Average (GPA)
Protect Your GPA with DSST Exams
Florida State College at Jacksonville grants college credit for DSST exams with passing scores of 400 points or higher.
The best part?
The credit is denoted as a "P" (Pass) grade, ensuring that unsuccessful attempts do not impact your GPA.
If you don't achieve a passing score on your first try, don't worry!
You have the opportunity to retest every 30 days until you succeed.
DSST exams are designed to evaluate your proficiency in college-level subject matter acquired through self-study or practical experience outside traditional classroom settings.
Exam Format and Scoring
DSST exams consist of 100 multiple-choice questions with four answer choices, scoring 200 to 500 points.
To achieve a passing score of 400 points or higher, you must accurately answer approximately 58% to 62% of the exam questions.
This lenient scoring criterion makes DSST exams appealing for students comfortable with standardized testing.
DSST exams offer a low-risk, high-reward opportunity and don't affect your GPA.
Where Can I Take My DSST Exam?
Three Testing Options
You have three choices for where to take your DSST exam:
At FSCJ's test center.
At a Prometric test center.
Remotely online with Prometric.
Let's discuss all three testing options and learn how FSCJ will receive your DSST exam results.
FSCJ: Campus Test Centers And Registration Process
DSST Registration and Exam Fees
Florida State College at Jacksonville has two Assessment and Certification testing centers that administer proctored DSST exams to university students and community members.
The total cost of DSST exams is $130.00, divided into a non-refundable and non-transferrable $30.00 test center administration fee (cash, credit, or debit card) payable to Florida State College at Jacksonville and a $100 exam registration fee (debit or credit card only) payable to Prometric on exam day.
If you wish to take your DSST exam at a Florida State College at Jacksonville campus, you must preregister and pay the $30.00 test administration fee to schedule your DSST exam date at your preferred choice of the following testing centers.
Walk-ins are not permitted.
Florida State College at Jacksonville (Kent Campus)
Florida State College at Jacksonville (Kent Campus)
Building A Room A-102
3939 Roosevelt Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32205
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Tel: (904) 381-3754
Email: Kent_testing@fscj.edu
Pro Tip: DSST Principles of Public Speaking is unavailable at the Kent Campus. It is only available at the Deerwood test center.
Florida State College at Jacksonville (Deerwood Center)
Florida State College at Jacksonville (Deerwood Center)
9911 Old Baymeadows Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Tel: (904) 997-2629
Email: Deerwood_testing@fscj.edu
FSCJ Test Center: Exam Details
On exam day, all test takers must check in at least 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment test time and bring the email receipt sent by Registerblast during the pre-registration process.
Late arrivals will not be admitted.
Participants must present a non-expired government-issued ID containing a current photo and signature (driver's license, state-issued identification card, passport, or military/tribal identification card) that matches the name used during registration. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Test takers must pay Prometric the $100 exam fee, which can be paid only by credit card (Mastercard, Visa, American Express).
DSST exams last 90 minutes. However, examinees should allocate at least 2 hours and fifteen minutes (including the check-in process) for the entire appointment.
Please be advised that the following items are prohibited in the testing lab:
No electronic devices (mobile phones, smart watches/glasses, tablets, laptops, tablets)
No hats, sunglasses, loose jewelry, hoodies, sweaters, jackets, coats, or outerwear
No snacks or drinks
No bags or other personal effects of any kind
Pro-Tip: You must bring the preregistration email receipt from Registerblast on the day of your exam.
FSCJ Test Center: Active Duty Military Members
Active military personnel can take DSST exams at military testing centers. The cost is waived for any given exam for first attempts only. A military ID card must be presented at the time of the examination.
Participants must also present a non-expired government-issued ID containing a current photo and signature (driver's license, state-issued identification card, passport, or military/tribal identification card) that matches the name used during registration. NO EXCEPTIONS.
All candidates for DSST testing at Naval Air Station Jacksonville or Naval Station Mayport must preregister online with a reservation before arriving at the test sites. Walk-ins are not permitted.
All military personnel who test at naval stations require two photo IDs. Individuals with base access can also test at military testing centers; however, testing fees apply.
Naval Air Station Jacksonville
Bldg 110 - Room 4 - Yorktown Ave.
Jacksonville, FL 32212
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday | 0800-1630
Friday | 0800-1200
DSST Testing Hours:
Wednesday | 0800-1630
Tel: (904) 573-2329
Email: nasjax@fscj.edu
Note:
DSST exams are only administered on Wednesdays
DSST Principles of Public Speaking is not available at Naval Air Stations
DSST Principles of Public Speaking is only available at the Deerwood Center Testing location
Source: Naval Air Station Jacksonville
Naval Station Mayport
Bldg 460 - Massey Ave.
Jacksonville, FL 32228
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday | 0800-1630
Friday | 0800-1200 (Closed on Friday during Summer Term)
DSST Testing Hours:
Wednesday | 0800-1630
Tel: (904) 249-7311
Email: mayport@fscj.edu
Note:
DSST exams are only administered on Tuesdays
DSST Principles of Public Speaking is not available at Naval Air Stations
DSST Principles of Public Speaking is only available at the Deerwood Center Testing location
Source: Naval Station Mayport
Test Registration Process
During registration, you must enter the 4-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code 8621 to ensure your official score report is sent directly to Florida State College at Jacksonville.
Failure to enter the correct 4-digit Institutional Score Report Code for your school will delay the transmittal of an official score report and may result in an additional cost for a transcript.
Pro Tip:
The Institutional Score Report Code for Florida State College at Jacksonville is 8621.
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.
FSCJ 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
FSCJ'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.
FSCJ'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 State College at Jacksonville is 8621.
You must enter the correct Institutional Score Report Code to ensure your official score report is sent directly to Florida State College at Jacksonville.
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 FSCJ's 4-digit Institutional Score Recipient Code (8621), which ensures that FSCJ receives your exam results.
Prometric Test Centers: Registration Process
Prometric DSST Test Centers
As mentioned earlier, you can take your DSST exam at FSCJ 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 FSCJ 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, FSCJ 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 FSCJ for free.
The processing time for FSCJ to receive the score report ranges from 3 to 6 weeks.
Once FSCJ receives your score report, they will apply your units toward your degree program.
Remember, the 4-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code for FSCJ is 8621.
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 FSCJ's Institutional Score Recipient Code (8621).
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 FSCJ academic advisor to confirm which DSST exams are eligible for your degree requirements.
Study for your DSST exam.
Schedule your final exam with FSCJ or Prometric.
Successfully pass your DSST exam, save money on tuition, and graduate sooner.
Conclusion
The Florida State College at Jacksonville provides a forward-thinking, progressive option where students may shorten the time required to complete a baccalaureate degree with DSST credit-by-examination.
DSST exams offer an innovative and cost-effective solution for students who wish to expedite their degree requirements, minimize tuition expenses, and maintain a high GPA.
The flexibility provided by DSST exams allows students to efficiently navigate through general education courses, streamlining their academic path without sitting through an entire semester-long class.
The financial advantages and the convenience of self-paced study and testing make DSST exams enticing for students seeking a strategically effective and economically affordable pathway to graduation.
With Florida State College at Jacksonville fully embracing this credit-earning opportunity, students are encouraged to confidently utilize DSST exams for an accelerated and enhanced collegiate experience.
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