Slash Tuition Costs at Grand Canyon University with DSST Exams
Are you a Grand Canyon University (GCU) student looking to save big on tuition?
Or are you considering enrolling but worried about the financial burden?
DSST exams could be your solution to earning college credits at a fraction of the cost.
DSST, or DANTES Subject Standardized Tests, allows you to gain undergraduate credits by passing a single comprehensive exam in a subject area.
By taking advantage of these nationally recognized tests, GCU students can save up to $13,550 on tuition fees.
At GCU, alternative credit pathways like DSST exams are embraced as intelligent ways for students to accelerate their degree progress while effectively managing costs.
This comprehensive guide will explore how current and prospective GCU students can leverage DSST exams to test out of general education requirements, earn valuable credits, and significantly reduce their overall tuition expenses.
National Exams
The Fast Track to Your Degree With Prometric DSST Exams
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.
With proper preparation, you can bypass unnecessary coursework and apply those credits directly toward your bachelor's degree at GCU.
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.
Students can utilize DSST exams as a strategic means to expedite the completion of undergraduate general education elective courses (30 units) to fulfill general education requirements and accelerate the transition into upper-division coursework.
GCU students can test out of up to 30 units, equivalent to one year's worth of general education and undergraduate elective courses, significantly reducing the overall cost of obtaining an undergraduate degree.
Grand Canyon University On-Campus Tuition and Costs
GCU Tuition Fees
Grand Canyon 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.
Regardless of residency status, the annual tuition rate for an undergraduate student attending Grand Canyon University is $16,500.
GCU Total Tuition Expenses
Source: Undergraduate Programs
Total Expenses: Academic Year
The total expenses associated with attending Grand Canyon University encompass various factors, including administrative fees, course materials, living expenses, travel, and additional student-related costs.
The Traditional On-Campus (Full-Time Student) undergraduate degree living on/off campus is $33,662.
GCU Online Tuition Versus DSST Exam Fees
3 Semester Units
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 online class at Grand Canyon University to the cost of taking an equivalent 3-semester-hour unit DSST exam.
Scroll through the table below.
Description | Unit Type | Cost per Units | Number of Units | Total Cost | Total Savings |
Grand Canyon University Tuition: | |||||
Online Undergraduate General Elective Class | Semester-hour | $485.00 (1 unit) | 3 | $1,455.00 | |
DSST Exam Fees: | |||||
DSST Exam | Semester-hour | $100.00 (3 units) | 3 | $100.00 | |
Total DSST Savings | $1,355.00 |
One Online Undergraduate General Elective Class at Grand Canyon University:
$485.00 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $1,455.00
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.
Students at Grand Canyon University will save $1,355.00 in tuition costs for one 3-semester-hour unit class by testing out with DSST exams.
15 Semester Units
A full-time course load schedule for undergraduate students is comprised of 15 units (5 classes) per semester.
Let's view the potential savings below.
Scroll through the table below.
Institution | Semester-Units | Unit Cost (3) | # of Classes | Tuition | DSST Exam Fees | Total Cost | Total Savings |
Grand Canyon University | 15 | $1,455.00 | 5 | $7,275.00 | - | $7,275.00 | |
DSST Exams | 15 | $100.00 | 5 | - | $500.00 | $500.00 | |
Total DSST Savings | $6,775.00 |
Full-time students can complete 15 units (5 classes) and save over $6,775.00 in tuition costs per semester at Grand Canyon University.
Pro Tip: Grand Canyon University (GCU) students have the opportunity to test out of up to 30 undergraduate units, which is equivalent to 10 classes, allowing them to save $13,550.
DSST Exams: Your Alternative to Community College
Pass One Final Exam and Earn Three Credits
For current and prospective Grand Canyon University students, fulfilling general education requirements offers a variety of options.
One common route is taking elective courses at Grand Canyon University or a community college, with credits transferring directly to the university.
However, these paths can be time-consuming and not cost-efficient for those looking to accelerate their academic progress.
Successfully passing elective DSST exams allows students to bypass traditional courses and earn credits to fulfill general education requirements, eliminating the need for community college enrollment or elective classes at Grand Canyon University.
This opportunity also extends to high school and home-schooled students seeking a head start in earning college credits.
Prospective Grand Canyon University students have an incredible opportunity to complete ten general education classes before enrollment, enabling them to enter the university as sophomores.
Which Classes Can I Test Out of?
Source: GCU Transfer Course Search (download below)
Test Out of 30 Lower-division College Credits
The table below outlines that students can earn 30 lower-division college credits by completing ten DSST exams.
DSST Course Exam | Grand Canyon University Course Credit | Grand Canyon University Transfer Credit | DSST Course Credit |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Critical Thinking | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Elective | Elective | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Critical Thinking | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Elective | Elective | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units |
MGT-434 or AMP-434 Human Resources | Elective | 3 units | |
Elective | Elective | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Critical Thinking | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
PSY-357 Lifespan Development | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Elective | Elective | 3 units | |
Critical Thinking | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
Elective | Elective | 3 units | |
FIN-210 Personal Finance | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
ENG-106 English Composition II | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
Critical Thinking | Critical Thinking | 3 units | |
COM-210 Public Speaking | Effective Communication | 3 units | |
Elective | Elective | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units | |
Effective Communication | Effective Communication | 3 units | |
Global Awareness | Global Awareness | 3 units |
Maintain Your Grade Point Average (GPA)
DSST Exams Don't Affect Your GPA
Grand Canyon 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 specifically 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.
GCU Academic Counselors
Academics
We highly recommend contacting your academic counselor for further information regarding DSST exams.
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 testing format.
Where Can I Take My DSST Exam?
Prometric Test Centers
DSST exams are offered and proctored by Prometric.
You can schedule and take your DSST exam at any Prometric test center strategically positioned across the United States.
When enrolling for a DSST exam, you can choose between two options:
Attend the exam at a physical Prometric brick-and-mortar test center.
Opt for a remote exam through Prometric.
Each option has unique advantages; you can easily schedule your exam online for added convenience.
Let's explore each option below.
You can take your DSST exam at a local Prometric test center or remotely online.
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.
Remote Proctoring: Take Your DSST Exam Online
Online Testing
You can take your DSST exam online remotely from your personal computer.
A live proctor will monitor you throughout your exam.
Schedule your reservation to sign up for your DSST exam from the comfort of your own home.
Pick the subject you'd like to test in, choose a suitable test date, and pay the exam fee online.
It's a convenient and straightforward process.
*Please view our post below to schedule and take your exam remotely.
How Will WGU Receive My DSST Exam Results?
Institutional Score Recipient Code
Whether you opt for an online or in-person DSST exam, knowing GCU's 4-digit school Institutional Score Recipient Code is essential.
GCU will receive a complimentary copy of your exam scores from Prometric using their designated institution's 4-digit score recipient code: 9406.
The processing time for GCU to receive the score report ranges from 2 to 3 weeks.
Once Grand Canyon University receives your score report, they will apply your units toward your degree program.
Once Prometric receives your 4-digit code, they send your score report directly to Grand Canyon University for free.
Normally, you would enter your 4-digit code when registering for your exam.
Currently, Prometric's registration process does not provide an option to enter your Institutional Score Recipient Code.
Until this feature is available, you must contact Prometric directly for assistance.
Be sure to contact Prometric within two days after your exam and provide them with your four-digit institutional score recipient code (9406).
Contact Prometric at:
Toll Free: 1-877-471-9860
For more details, view our blog:
Pro Tip: To expedite the processing of your college credits, contact Prometric two days after your exam, providing them with your university's Institutional Score Recipient Code (GCU: 9406).
If you wish for your institution to receive your exam results, ensure that you provide your 4-digit code to Prometric each time you take a DSST exam.
How Do I Get Started with DSST Exams?
Your Path to Savings: A Step-by-Step Guide to DSST Exams
Ready to unlock the door to substantial tuition savings at Grand Canyon University?
Follow these simple steps to start taking DSST exams and accelerate your journey toward a debt-free degree.
1. Consult Your Academic Advisor
Your first step is to meet with your GCU academic advisor.
They'll help you identify which DSST exams align with your degree program and general education requirements.
With their guidance, you can strategically select exams to maximize your credit earnings and cost savings.
2. Prepare for Success
Once you've chosen your exams, it's time to dive into preparation mode.
Leverage tailored DSST exam study resources, especially practice tests and online course modules.
Remember, your goal is to demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in one final assessment – so leave no stone unturned in your quest for knowledge.
3. Register and Conquer
When you're feeling confident, it's time to schedule your DSST exam with Prometric, the authorized test provider.
On exam day, arrive well-rested and let your hard-earned knowledge shine through as you tackle each question with poise and precision.
4. Celebrate Your Savings
Upon passing your DSST exam, the real reward is substantial tuition savings and a faster path to graduation.
Imagine the sense of accomplishment as those hard-earned credits are applied to your GCU degree, bringing you one step closer to your academic and career goals – all while keeping more money in your pocket.
Don't let the opportunity for significant cost savings pass you by.
Conclusion
Discover a New Approach to Learning at Grand Canyon University
DSST exams aren't just a practical choice—they embody a progressive vision for higher education.
By seizing this opportunity, you'll enroll in a prestigious institution and join a community of students reshaping the landscape of modern learning.
DSST exams offer an affordable and efficient path to your degree, allowing you to reduce tuition costs while maintaining strong academic performance.
This financial flexibility enables you to concentrate more on your studies and less on financial worries.
The flexibility of these nationally recognized exams lets you fulfill general education requirements at your own pace, streamlining your academic journey without the confines of traditional semester-long courses.
Picture the satisfaction of mastering subjects through self-paced study and comprehensive final assessments.
With each DSST exam you pass, you save money and showcase your dedication to academic excellence, demonstrating your ability to excel in an independent learning environment.
They empower you to take charge of your academic path and shape your future according to your own ambitions.
This is your chance to redefine what it means to be a modern learner.
Embrace the future of learning at Grand Canyon University, and let DSST exams serve as your gateway to a truly extraordinary and fulfilling college experience.
If you have any additional questions, please get in touch with us at support@dssttestprep.com.