Accelerate Your Degree at Miami Dade College with DSST Exams
Are you a current or prospective Miami Dade College (MDC) student?
If so, get ready to supercharge your academic journey with DSST exams – a powerful tool that can help you earn up to 45 undergraduate semester units towards your degree.
Shave Years Off Your Studies
By leveraging DSST exams, you can potentially test out of almost two years' worth of classes, saving you valuable time and money.
These credit-by-exam opportunities allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and earn credits without stepping foot in a traditional classroom.
What are DSST Exams?
DSST exams, formerly DANTES (Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support) Subject Standardized Tests, represent a national standardized testing approach that allows students to demonstrate their comprehensive understanding of specific subjects.
By successfully passing a DSST exam, you can earn college-level credit without attending a full semester-long course.
Leverage DSST Exams for Cost-Effective Tuition Management
DSST Tests
Miami Dade College recognizes the diverse pathways to learning and encourages students to leverage DSST exams as a cost-effective way to manage their tuition and expedite their progress toward graduation.
Earning credits through DSST exams can save time and money, as you won't have to pay for and attend traditional classroom-based courses.
Earn College Credits and Accelerate Your Degree
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 valuable college credits.
By taking advantage of this flexible and efficient testing approach, you can accelerate your academic journey and focus on the most important subjects, ultimately reaching your degree completion goals at Miami Dade College.
Miami Dade College Tuition Versus DSST Exam Fees
Fee Per Credit Hour
The total expenses associated with attending Miami Dade College encompass various factors, including residency, administrative fees, course materials, living expenses, travel, and additional student-related costs.
Miami Dade College 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-hour Units
Most undergraduate general education classes are structured as three (3) semester-hour units.
Let’s compare the approximate cost of a three-semester-hour course at Miami Dade College to that of an equivalent three-semester-hour unit DSST exam.
Scroll through the table below.
Description | Unit Type | Cost per Unit (Resident) | Number of Units | Total Cost | Total Savings with DSST Exams |
Miami Dade College Tuition: | |||||
Undergraduate general elective class | Semester-hour | $129.89 (1 unit)* | 3 | $389.67 | |
DSST Exam Fees: | |||||
DSST Exam | Semester-hour | $100.00 (3 units) | 3 | $100.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $289.67 |
*Tuition for non-Florida residents is $535.97 per credit hour. The fee schedule is subject to change within the guidelines approved by the Florida Legislature.
One Resident General Elective Class at Miami Dade College:
$129.89 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $389.67
One Non-Resident General Elective Class at Miami Dade College:
$535.97 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $1,607.91
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.
By testing out with DSST exams, resident students at Miami Dade College will save $289.67 in tuition costs for one 3-semester-hour course.
Non-resident students can save $1507.91 per 3 units.
15 Semester-hour Units
A full-time course load schedule for undergraduate students comprises 15 units (5 classes) per semester.
Scroll through the table below.
Institution | Semester-Units | Cost Per Unit | Number of Classes | Tuition | DSST Exam Fees | Total Cost | Total DSST Savings |
Miami Dade College | 15 | $129.89 | 5 | $1,948.35 | -- | $1,948.35 | |
DSST Exams | 15 | $100.00 | 5 | - | $500.00 | $500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $1,448.35 |
Resident students can save over $1,448.35 in tuition costs at Miami Dade College.
Non-resident students could save $7,539.55.
45 Semester-hour Units
Scroll through the table below.
Institution | Semester - Units | Cost Per Unit | Number of Classes | Tuition | DSST Exam Fees | Total Cost | Total Savings with DSST Exams |
Miami Dade College | 45 | $129.89 | 15 | $5,845.05 | - | $5,845.05 | |
DSST Exams | 45 | $100.00 | 15 | - | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $4,345.05 |
Maximize Your Savings and Accelerate Your Degree with DSST Exams at Miami Dade College
As a student at Miami Dade College, you can earn up to 45 college credit units (equivalent to 15 classes) towards your baccalaureate degree by passing DSST exams.
This flexible and cost-effective testing option significantly saves tuition costs while accelerating your academic journey.
Substantial Tuition Savings for Resident Students
By utilizing DSST exams, resident students at Miami Dade College can save $4,345.05 in tuition costs for the same number of college credits earned through traditional classroom-based courses.
This substantial savings can significantly affect your overall educational expenses and financial planning.
Residents save $4,345.05 in tuition costs.
Even Greater Savings for Non-Resident Students
Non-resident students at Miami Dade College stand to benefit even more from taking advantage of DSST exams.
By passing these exams, non-resident students can save a remarkable $22,618.65 in tuition costs compared to enrolling in traditional courses for the same number of credits.
Non-resident students could save $22,618.65 in tuition costs.
Simplify Your Progress to Graduation with Convenience and Effectiveness
Ensure a Smooth DSST Exam Experience at Miami Dade College
Before taking any DSST exams, it is crucial to contact your academic advisor.
This important step will allow you to confirm and verify that the specific DSST course credits you're considering will apply to your degree program.
Avoid Duplicating Coursework
Consulting with your academic advisor is essential to avoid duplicating coursework inadvertently.
They can provide valuable guidance on aligning your DSST exam choices with the degree requirements you must fulfill, helping you make the most efficient use of your time and resources.
Clarify Degree Alignment
In addition to confirming the applicability of DSST credits, your academic advisor can also help you understand how these exams fit into your overall degree plan at Miami Dade College.
This clarity will allow you to strategically incorporate DSST exams into your academic journey and ensure a seamless transition toward your graduation goals.
Prepare for Success with Online Courses and Practice Tests
Once you've obtained approval from your advisor, you can explore the diverse selection of available online DSST examination preparation courses.
These resources can help you initiate your studies and familiarize yourself with the testing format.
Consider taking a complimentary practice test to enhance your preparedness and confidence before the DSST exam.
Miami Dade College: Which Classes Can I Test Out Of?
DSST Exams Articulation Guidelines
Students can earn college credits by completing an equivalent DSST subject exam, as outlined in the table below.
DSST Course Exam | MDC Subject Area | MDC Course Equivalent | Substitution | DSST Course Credit |
S | AMH 1059+ | GE Elective* | 3 units | |
S | ARH 1000 or ARH1010+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
N | AST 1002 | 3 units | ||
O | GEB 1441+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
Business Mathematics | M | QMB 1001+ | Electives Box | 3 units |
O | CGS 1100 or CGS 1060 | 3 units | ||
O | CCJ 1000 or CCJ 1020 | 3 units | ||
H | EVR 1002+ or ISC 1003+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
O | PHI 1630+ | GE Elective | 3 units | |
O | EDF 1002+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
Fundamentals of College Algebra | M | MAC 1105 | 3 units | |
O | PCO 1202+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
O | CIS 1350+ or CIS 1354+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
S | ANT 2000 | 3 units | ||
O | HSC 2100 or HSC 2101+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
S | EUH 1066+ | Electives Box | 3 units |
O | MAN 2300 | 3 units | ||
O | GEB 1001+ or GEB 1011 | Electives Box | 3 units | |
S | GEO 1400+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
S | GLY 1000 | 3 units | ||
O | CCJ 1100+ or CJE 1000+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
S | REL 2300 | 3 units | ||
S | DEP 1004+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
O | ISM 1000+ or ISM 1004+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
Math for Liberal Arts | O | MGF 1106 | 3 units | |
O | BAN 2501 | 3 units | ||
O | INP 1002+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
O | FIN 2100 | 3 units | ||
E | NONE | 3 units | ||
O | FIN 2000 | 3 units | ||
O | SPC 2608 | 3 units | ||
Principles of Statistics | M | STA 2014 | 3 units | |
O | MNA 1124+ or MNA 1345 | Electives Box | 3 units | |
O | HSC 1140+ or HSC 1150+ | Electives Box | 3 units | |
E | ENC 1210 | 3 units | ||
S | AMH 1056+ | GE Elective | 3 |
Maintain Your GPA with DSST Exams at Miami Dade College
Protect Your GPA with Pass/Fail Grading
At Miami Dade College, you can earn college credit for DSST exams with passing scores of 400 points or higher.
This flexible testing option allows you to demonstrate your subject matter proficiency and provides a safeguard for your Grade Point Average (GPA).
The credit awarded for DSST exams is denoted as a "P" (Pass) grade, meaning unsuccessful attempts do not impact your GPA.
This pass/fail grading system ensures that your academic performance is not penalized if you don't achieve a passing score on your first try.
Retake Opportunities for Success
If you fail your initial attempt to pass a DSST exam, you can retest every 30 days until you achieve a passing score.
This flexibility allows you to continue studying and improving your knowledge until you feel confident in your ability to succeed on the exam.
Designed for Non-Traditional Learning
DSST exams are specifically designed to evaluate proficiency in college-level subject matter acquired through self-study or practical experience outside traditional classroom settings.
This makes them ideal for students who have gained knowledge through alternative learning paths or life experiences.
Exam Format and Scoring
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.
This leniently accommodating scoring criteria makes DSST exams appealing to individuals comfortable with standardized testing.
By taking advantage of DSST exams at Miami Dade College, you can earn valuable college credits while maintaining your GPA and exploring alternative learning pathways.
With the pass/fail grading system and retake opportunities, you can confidently pursue this testing option without risking your academic standing.
Where Can I Take My DSST Exam?
Testing Options
You have three choices for where to take your DSST exam:
At MDC's test centers.
At a Prometric test center.
Remotely online with Prometric.
Let's discuss all three testing options and learn how MDC will receive your DSST exam results.
Miami Dade College: DSST Test Centers And Registration Process
Convenient DSST Exam Administration at Miami Dade College
Miami Dade College offers proctored DSST exams at the Assessment and Certification testing centers on:
These testing facilities are available to all university students, faculty, and local community members, providing a convenient and accessible option for those seeking college credit through DSST exams.
DSST Registration and Exam Fees
To take a DSST exam at Miami Dade College, you'll need to cover the following costs:
Testing Fee: A non-refundable and non-transferable fee of $38.50, payable to Miami Dade College.
Exam Fee: A fee of $100, payable by debit or credit card to Prometric on the day of your exam.
The total cost of taking a DSST exam at Miami Dade College is $138.50.
Preregistration and Scheduling
If you wish to take your DSST exam at one of the campus test centers, you must first preregister and pay the $38.50 test administration fee.
This step will allow you to schedule your DSST exam date at your preferred testing center, ensuring a seamless and organized testing experience.
By offering proctored DSST exams at multiple campus locations, Miami Dade College provides students, faculty, and community members a convenient and accessible way to earn college credit.
You can confidently plan and prepare for your DSST exam journey with clear fee structures and a straightforward registration process.
Miami Dade College Test Centers: How Will MDC Receive My DSST Exam 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
MDC'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.
MDC'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 Code for Miami Dade College is 9627.
You must enter the correct Institutional Score Report Code to ensure your official score report is sent directly to MDC.
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 MDC's 4-digit Institutional Score Recipient Code (9627), which ensures that MDC receives your exam results.
Prometric Test Centers: Registration Process
Prometric DSST Test Centers
If you prefer an off-campus testing location, you can choose to take your DSST exams at a Prometric test center.
Prometric is a trusted provider of testing services, offering a network of secure and professional testing facilities across various locations.
This option can be particularly convenient if you live or work near 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 Remotely
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 MDC 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, MDC 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 MDC for free.
The processing time for MDC to receive the score report ranges from 3 to 6 weeks.
Once MDC receives your score report, they will apply your units toward your degree program.
Remember, the 4-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code for Miami Dade College is 9627.
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 your university's Institutional Score Recipient Code.
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?
Unlock Your Academic Potential: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to embark on an accelerated path to academic success?
Follow these simple steps to leverage the power of DSST exams at Miami Dade College:
Consult Your Academic Advisor:
Schedule a meeting with your dedicated academic advisor to discuss your eligibility for DSST exams.
They'll help you identify which exams align with your degree requirements, ensuring you're on the right track from the start.
Prepare for Conquest:
Treat your DSST exam like a college final exam.
Dedicate time to studying and mastering the material, utilizing practice exams, and reviewing key concepts.
Remember, preparation is the key to success.
Schedule Your Exam:
Once you're feeling confident, it's time to schedule your DSST exam.
Choose a date and location that suit your schedule, whether on campus or at a convenient testing center.
Conquer and Celebrate:
Test your knowledge and pass your DSST exam with flying colors.
Each successful attempt will earn you more credits toward your degree, bringing you one step closer to your academic goals.
With determination and the right strategy, you'll be well on your way to unlocking your full potential at Miami Dade College.
Embrace the opportunity to save time and money while propelling yourself towards a future of boundless possibilities.
Conclusion
The Path to Academic Excellence Awaits
Miami Dade College's embrace of DSST exams is a testament to its forward-thinking approach and commitment to student success.
By recognizing the value of these credit-by-examination opportunities, the college empowers you, the student, to take control of your academic journey.
DSST exams offer an innovative and cost-effective solution for those seeking to expedite their degree requirements, minimize tuition expenses, and maintain a stellar GPA.
Their flexibility allows you to efficiently navigate through general education courses, streamlining your academic path without the need to sit through an entire semester-long class.
Imagine the freedom of self-paced study and testing and the financial advantages of saving thousands in tuition costs.
This strategic and economically affordable pathway to graduation is an enticing prospect for any student driven by ambition and a desire for academic excellence.
With Miami Dade College fully embracing this credit-earning opportunity, you can confidently utilize DSST exams and experience an accelerated and enhanced collegiate journey.
Embrace this chance to unlock your full potential, surpass your goals, and emerge as a well-rounded, accomplished graduate ready to conquer the world.
The path to academic excellence awaits – seize the opportunity and let DSST exams propel you toward a future of boundless possibilities.