Earn College Credit and Accelerate Your Graduation at SSC with DSST Exams
If you have been considering attending Seminole State College of Florida (SSC) or are currently enrolled as a student, did you know that 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.
Seminole State College of Florida 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 utilizing DSST exams to test out of general education courses and earn college credits.
Seminole State College of Florida DSST Credit-By-Examination Program
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 Seminole State College of Florida.
DSST exams allow SSC students to test out of courses and accelerate their studies to acquire college credit.
SSC Tuition Versus DSST Exam Fees
Let's Explore the Savings
Seminole State College of Florida recognizes the substantial financial investment of 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.
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 Seminole State College of Florida to the cost of taking an equivalent three-semester-hour unit DSST exam.
3 Semester Units Vs. DSST Exam Fees
Scroll through the table below.
Description | Unit Type | Cost per Unit | Number of Units | Total Cost | Total Savings |
Seminole State College of Florida Tuition: | |||||
Undergraduate General Elective Class | Semester-hour | $119.61 (1 unit)* | 3 | $358.83 | |
DSST Exam Fees: | |||||
DSST Exam | Semester-hour | $100.00 (3 units) | 3 | $100.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $258.83 |
*Non-Florida resident tuition is $424.35 per credit hour. The fee schedule is subject to change within the guidelines approved by the Florida Legislature.
3 Units - DSST Exam Savings
One Undergraduate General Elective Class at Seminole State College of Florida:
$119.61 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $358.83
One Non-Resident General Elective Class at Seminole State College of Florida:
$424.35 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $1,273.05
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 SSC will save $258.83 in tuition costs for one 3-semester-hour unit course by testing out with DSST exams.
Non-resident students can save $1,173.05 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 Savings |
Seminole State College of Florida | 15 | $119.61 | 5 | $1,794.15 | - | $1,794.15 | |
DSST Exams | 15 | $100.00 | 5 | - | $500.00 | $500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $1,294.15 |
15 Units - DSST Exam Savings
A full-time course schedule for undergraduate students typically comprises 15 units (5 classes) per semester.
Resident students will save over $1,294.15 in tuition costs at the University of Central Florida.
Non-resident students can save $5,865.25.
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 |
Seminole State College of Florida | 45 | $119.61 | 15 | $5,382.45 | - | $5,382.45 | |
DSST Exams | 45 | $100.00 | 15 | - | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $3,882.45 |
45 Units - DSST Exam Savings
Passing DSST exams at the SSC can allow students to obtain up to 45 college credit units (15 classes) toward a baccalaureate degree.
By utilizing DSST exams, resident students could save $3,882.45 in tuition costs and graduate 18 months faster.
Non-resident students could save over $17,595.75 in tuition and fees.
Which Classes Can I Test Out Of?
Seminole State College (SSC) of Florida 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 | SSC Equivalent Course | DSST Course Credit |
AMH 1059: A History of the Vietnam War | 3 units | |
ARH 1000: Art Appreciation | 3 units | |
AST 1002: Introduction to Astronomy | 3 units | |
GEB 1441: Business Ethics and Society | 3 units | |
Business Mathematics | QMB 1001: Business Mathematics | 3 units |
CGS 1060C: Introduction to Computers | 3 units | |
CCJ 1000: Introduction to Private Security or CCJ 1020: Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 units | |
EVR 2002: Environmental Systems IB or ISC 2003: Sustainability: Concepts | 3 units | |
PHI 1630: Contemporary Ethical Problems | 3 units | |
EDF 1002: Foundations of Education | 3 units | |
Fundamentals of College Algebra | MAC 1105: College Algebra | 3 units |
PCO 1202: Foundations of Counseling | 3 units | |
CTS 1120: Introduction to Internetworking Security (Security +) | 3 units | |
ANT 2000: General Anthropology | 3 units | |
HSC 1100: Personal and Community Health | 3 units | |
EUH 1066: Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union | 3 units |
MAN 2300: Human Resources Management | 3 units | |
GEB 1011: Introduction to Business | 3 units | |
GEO 1400: Introduction to Human Geology | 3 units | |
CJE 1000: Introduction to Law Enforcement | 3 units | |
REL 2300: Religions of the World | 3 units | |
DEP 2004: Developmental Psychology | 3 units | |
ISM 1000: Management Information Systems | 3 units | |
Math for Liberal Arts | MGF 1106: College Math | 3 units |
BAN 1501: Money and Banking | 3 units | |
INP 2002: Introduction to Industrial Psychology | 3 units | |
FIN 2100: Personal Finance | 3 units | |
ENC 1101: English 1 | 3 units | |
FIN 1000: Principles of Finance | 3 units | |
SPC 1608: Speech Communication | 3 units | |
Principles of Statistics | STA 2023: Statistical Methods I | 3 units |
MNA 1345: Principles of Supervision | 3 units | |
HSC 1140: Substance Abuse | 3 units | |
ENC 1210: Technical Writing | 3 units | |
AMH 1056: The Civil War and Reconstruction | 3 units |
Pro Tip: College credits earned by passing DSST exams at SSC cannot exceed 45 units (15 courses) for a baccalaureate degree.
Academic Advising and Counseling
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
At Seminole State College of Florida, DSST exams with passing scores of 400 points or higher are awarded college credit.
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 SSC's test center.
At a Prometric test center.
Remotely online with Prometric.
Let's discuss all three testing options and learn how SSC will receive your DSST exam results.
SSC: DSST Test Registration Process
DSST Registration and Exam Fees
Seminole State College of Florida offers on-campus proctored DSST credit by exam testing at the Sanford/Lake Mary campus by appointment only.
The total cost of taking a DSST exam is $115.20, which is broken down as follows:
Test Center Administration Fee: $15.20 (non-refundable and non-transferable), payable to Seminole State College of Florida via credit card, money order, or check.
Exam Registration Fee: $100, payable to Prometric on the day of the exam via debit or credit card.
To take your DSST exam at Seminole State College of Florida, you must preregister and pay the $15.20 test administration fee to schedule your exam date.
Sanford/Lake Mary Campus Testing and Assessment Center
Student Center (SC) - Room 239
100 Weldon Boulevard
Sanford, FL 32773
Office Testing Hours:
Only by Appointment
Tel: 407-708-2020
Pro-Tip: You must bring the preregistration email receipt confirmation on the day of your exam.
Sanford/Lake Mary Campus Testing and Assessment Center And DSST Exam Details
Seminole State College of Florida Assessment and Testing General Testing Policies
All test takers must bring a copy of the exam confirmation and check in at least 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment on exam day.
Late arrivals will not be admitted.
Participants must present a valid, 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 on exam day, which can be paid only by credit card (Mastercard, Visa, American Express).
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.
DSST exams last 90 minutes. However, examinees should allocate at least 2 hours (to include 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
Personal items must be stored in an Assessment Center locker during the exam appointment
SSC 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
SSC'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.
SSC'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 Seminole State College of Florida is 8624.
You must enter the correct Institutional Score Report Code to ensure your official score report is sent directly to Seminole State College of Florida.
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 SSC's 4-digit Institutional Score Recipient Code (8624), which ensures that SSC receives your exam results.
Prometric Test Centers: Registration Process
Prometric DSST Test Centers
As mentioned, you can take your DSST exam at SSC or 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 SSC 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, SSC 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 SSC for free.
The processing time for SSC to receive the score report ranges from 3 to 6 weeks.
Once SSC receives your score report, they will apply your units toward your degree program.
Remember, the 4-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code for SSC is 8624.
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 SSC's Institutional Score Recipient Code (8624).
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 Seminole State College of Florida academic advisor to confirm which DSST exams are eligible for your degree requirements.
Study for your DSST exam.
Schedule your final exam with Prometric.
Successfully pass your DSST exam, save money on tuition, and graduate sooner.
Conclusion
Seminole State College of Florida 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 Seminole State College of Florida 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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