Graduate Faster: How DSST Exams Can Save You Time and Money at the University of Central Florida
Are you considering attending the University of Central Florida (UCF) or already a student?
If so, you might be interested to know that you can earn up to 45 undergraduate semester units toward your 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.
They allow students to showcase their understanding of specific subjects by passing a single comprehensive exam.
At the University of Central Florida, various pathways to learning are recognized and encouraged.
Students are urged to use DSST exams as a cost-effective way to manage tuition expenses and accelerate their progress toward graduation.
This comprehensive guide will explore how prospective and current students can use DSST exams to test out of general education courses and earn valuable college credits.
DSST Exams at UCF
Source: Undergraduate Catalog
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 the University of Central Florida.
DSST exams allow students to test out of courses and accelerate their studies to acquire college credit.
Cost of Attendance
Navigating Your Financial Investment: Understanding the True Costs
The University of Central Florida understands the significant financial commitment required to pursue a college education.
However, the total expenses associated with attending UCF extend beyond tuition.
Students must also factor in residency costs, administrative fees, course materials, living expenses, travel, and other student-related expenses.
For the 2023-2024 academic year, the estimated annual tuition cost for a full-time undergraduate student taking 28 semester hours is approximately:
$24,836 for Florida residents
$39,862 for non-Florida residents
That's why UCF embraces DSST exams as a valuable opportunity for students to earn credits and accelerate their path to a bachelor's degree.
By utilizing DSST exams, students can potentially save thousands of dollars and shave months or even years off their graduation time.
These exams allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and earn college credits for what they already know.
UCF's recognition of DSST exams reflects the university's commitment to providing accessible and affordable education pathways.
By embracing alternative credit options, UCF empowers students to pursue their academic goals while minimizing the financial burden.
University of Central Florida Tuition Versus 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 the University of Central Florida to the cost of taking an equivalent 3-semester-hour unit DSST exam.
3 Semester Units Vs. DSST Exam Fees
Scroll through the table below.
Description | Unit Type | Cost per Units | Number of Units | Total Cost | Total Savings |
University of Central Florida Tuition: | |||||
Undergraduate General Elective Class | Semester-hour | $212.28 (1 unit)* | 3 | $636.84 | |
DSST Exam Fees: | |||||
DSST Exam | Semester-hour | $100.00 (3 units) | 3 | $100.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $536.84 |
*Non-Florida resident: $748.89 per credit hour. The fee schedule is subject to change within the guidelines approved by the Florida Legislature.
One Resident General Elective Class at the University of Central Florida:
$212.28 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $636.84
One Non-Resident General Elective Class at the University of Central Florida:
$748.89 (semester-hour) x 3 semester-hour units = $2,246.67
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 the University of Central Florida will save $536.84 in tuition costs for one 3-semester-hour unit course by testing out with DSST exams.
Non-resident students can save $2,146.67 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 |
University of Central Florida | 15 | $212.28 | 5 | $3,184.20 | - | $3,184.20 | |
DSST Exams | 15 | $100.00 | 5 | - | $500.00 | $500.00 | |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $2,684.20 |
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 $2,684.20 in tuition costs at the University of Central Florida.
Non-resident students can save $10,733.35.
45 Semester Units Vs. DSST Exam Fees
Institution | Semester - Units | Cost Per Unit | Number of Classes | Tuition | DSST Exam Fees | Total | Total Savings |
University of Central Florida | 45 | $212.28 | 15 | $9,552.60 | - | $9,552.60 | - |
DSST Exams | 45 | $100 | 15 | - | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 | - |
Total Savings with DSST Exams | $8,052.60 |
45 Units - DSST Exam Savings
Passing DSST exams at the University of Central Florida 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 $8,052.60 in tuition costs and graduate 18 months faster.
Non-resident students could save over $32,200.05 in tuition and fees.
Which Courses Can I Test Out Of?
Source: Undergraduate Catalog
Students can earn college credits by completing an equivalent DSST subject exam, as outlined in the table below.
University of Central Florida DSST Exams Articulation Guidelines
DSST Course Exam | University of Central Florida Course | University of Central Florida GEP Credit | DSST Course Credit |
AMH 2059 | Elective | 3 units | |
ARH 2000 | CUL & HIS Found 2 | 3 units | |
AST 2002 | SCI Found 1 | 3 units | |
GEB 2441 | Elective | 3 units | |
Business Mathematics | QMB 1001 | Elective | 3 units |
CGS 1060C | MAT Found 2 | 3 units | |
CCJ 1000 | Elective | 3 units | |
EVR 2002 | Elective | 3 units | |
PHI1630 | Elective | 3 units | |
EDF 1002 | Elective | 3 units | |
Fundamentals of College Algebra | MAC 1105 | MAT Found 1 | 3 units |
PCO 1202 | Elective | 3 units | |
CIS 1354 | Elective | 3 units | |
ANT 2000 | SOC Found 1 | 3 units | |
HSC 1100 | Elective | 3 units | |
EUH 1066 | Elective | 3 units |
MAN 1300 | Elective | 3 units | |
GEB 2011 | Elective | 3 units | |
GEO 1400 | Elective | 3 units | |
GYL 1000 | SCI Found 2 | 3 units | |
CCJ 1100 | Elective | 3 units | |
REL 2300 | CULT & HIST Found 2 | 3 units | |
DEP 2004 | Elective | 3 units | |
ISM 1000 | Elective | 3 units | |
Math for Liberal Arts | MGF 1106 | MAT Found 1 | 3 units |
BAN 1501 | Elective | 3 units | |
INP 1002 | Elective | 3 units | |
FIN 1100 | Elective | 3 units | |
*Ask Academic Counselor | Elective | 3 units | |
FIN 1000 | Elective | 3 units | |
SPC 1600 | COM Found 3 | 3 units | |
Principles of Statistics | STA 2014 | MAT Found 2 | 3 units |
MNA 1345 | Elective | 3 units | |
HSC 2140 | Elective | 3 units | |
ENC 2210 | Elective | 3 units | |
AMH 1056 | Elective | 3 units |
Pro Tip: College credits earned by passing DSST exams at UCF 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
At the University of Central 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?
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 UCF Receive My DSST Exam Results?
Institutional Score Recipient Code
Whether you opt for an online or in-person DSST exam, knowing UCF's 4-digit school Institutional Score Recipient Code is essential.
UCF will receive a complimentary copy of your exam scores from Prometric using their designated institution's 4-digit score recipient code: 9010.
The processing time for UCF to receive the score report ranges from 2 to 3 weeks.
Once the University of Central Florida receives your score report, they will apply your units toward your degree program.
After you provide Prometric with your 4-digit code, they will send your score report directly to UCF at no cost.
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 (9010).
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 (UCF: 9010).
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?
1. Consult Your Academic Advisor
Your first step is to meet with your 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 UCF 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
The University of Central 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 the University of Central Florida fully embracing this credit-earning opportunity, students are encouraged to confidently utilize DSST exams for an accelerated and enhanced collegiate experience.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at support@dssttestprep.com.
We're here to help.
Good luck with your testing!
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