What is DSST Exam?

DSST Content

DSST tests are perceived to be a preliminary learning assessment in which you can test your knowledge of a particular subject without actually taking the actual college-level course. This alternative method can save you both money and time, significantly reducing the timeline and the expense of obtaining a college degree. There are currently more than 30 DSST tests, all of which are listed below.

If you are a military, you may take a limited test list at a Prometric testing center that includes:

Students preparing for standardized admissions tests should also practice with our CLEP practice test 2026, covering the quantitative, verbal, and analytical sections tested in the real exam.

• Principles of Supervision
• Computing and Information Technology
• Ethics in America, Health & Human Development
• Introduction to Business
• Introduction to World Religions
• Substance Abuse

DSST Scoring System

DSST tests are scored using one of two methods of scoring: Norm-Referenced or Criterion-Referenced Standard Setting. The use of scoring methodology depends on the title of the exam and the date that the exam was taken. One method isn't better than that of the other — they're just different ways to get to the same place.

• Norm-Referenced Standard Setting

Traditionally, the DSST exams were scored using the "norm-referenced" method to determine the pass/fail mark for each test. Using this approach, the cut-off score is calculated on the basis of the assessments of the groups of test participants; it sets out the proportions of each group that should pass or fail. The results of the DSST norm-referenced score vary between 20 and 80, with passing score settings ranging between 44 and 49 (C-grade), depending on the exam title.

• Criterion-Referenced Standard Setting

The scoring method used for all updated and new DSST tests is called "criterion-referenced." This approach sets scores based on decisions on individual test items or the test as a whole. This helps determine how many of the test items have to be answered correctly in order to pass the test. Criterion-referenced DSST scores are based on the test-takers' knowledge, not how they performed against each other in the same pool. Criterion-referenced scores vary from 200 to 500, with a passing score set at 400 for all tests.

DSST Score Grade Conversion

DSST Pass Rates for Military

DSST Score Report

Score Reports and Transcripts

Score reports will be sent to the school/institution that you selected on the exam day. The school/institution should receive your score report within 90 days after the date of the exam. Delayed scores may be the consequence of incorrect institution code. If your score report has been delayed, call or email your school directly.

When to notify the DSST Test Team:

• You did not provide a school code when you registered for your test.
• You want a copy of your score report for personal records.

• You want the scores of an exam you had previously passed submitted to another school/institution.

You can contact the DSST Exam Team via email at getcollegecredit@prometric.com or through phone at 1.877.471.9860.

DSST Transcript

When to order a transcript:

• Your school/institution requested an official sealed transcript of your DSST tests.
• You like a copy of your transcript for personal records.

How to use the parchment online ordering service: 

1. Create an account or log in to an existing account.
2. Select the documents.
3. Enter your order details.
4. Submit/pay for your transcript.
5. Keep track of your order.

Note: Transcripts may not be available for order until 3-5 business days after the date of the test. For more information about the DSST standardized test, you may visit the DSST official website at www.getcollegecredit.com.

DSST Study Guides

This easy DANTES study guides will assist you in DSST test prep.

• Find out whether your institution gives DSST exam credit
• Determine which exam you want to take
• Look for DSST prep study materials
• Take free DSST practice test or any DANTES practice tests
• Make a study schedule that works for you
• Begin studying
• Relax and take your exam

DSST Questions and Answers

DSST stands for DANTES Subject Standardized Tests.

By going to https://tcnet.prometric.com/dsst and clicking on first-time registration, you may create your username and password. On the day of your test, please bring your username and password with you.

Taking DSST exams costs $85. You’ll also have to pay an administrative fee to your testing center, which varies by location but is often between $20 and $30.

Yes. While DSST examinations were once only available to military members seeking a degree, they are now available to anyone seeking college credit.

Registration for DSST proctoring is accessible online at www.education.edu/testing. You will notice a button labelled SCHEDULE AN EXAM towards the top of the page, which you should click. A list of exam registration processes will appear. Select the appropriate option for Choose a group depending on the DSST test you intend to take. Choose which test you wish to take in the Choose an exam section. You must select an exam day and time as well as finish the registration procedure.

The DSST Substance Abuse Exam is extremely difficult, and significant study is required to pass. The 14 topics covered by the DSST Substance Abuse test are linked to the social, physical, and psychological impacts of various types of substance abuse.

DSST exams are open to anyone.

DSST tests are usually graded on a scale, with passing (or a C-grade equivalent) and failing (or a B-grade equivalent) marks. The B-grade equivalent was created to assist individuals applying to schools and institutions that grant credit based on DSST scores higher than a C.

To start, you must decide which test you want to take. Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with exam subject; they assist test takers learn the structure and formatting of a test. Make a study schedule that satisfy you. Before the test, make sure you get enough of rest and eat properly.

The majority of DSST examinations are passed with a score of 400 or better. The minimum and maximum numbers are 200 and 600, respectively. A grade of “C” on an exam would be equivalent to a score of 400.

Exams can be taken in a Prometric Testing Center or through a Remote Proctor.