College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) FAQs

How difficult is the test?
If you have questions about your ability to pass the CLEP exam, discuss your readiness with your advisor.

How can I study or prepare myself for the CLEP exam?
CLEP prepares and sells Official Study Guides. Information for ordering prep materials may be found in the registration booklet. Other CLEP exam preparation materials are sold in larger bookstores. Libraries may have some test guides.

Will I find out if I passed immediately?
For most exams you will receive a score report on the day of the exam. Exams with an essay component are only graded once monthly, so you will not get the score report on test day.

What if I start an exam and find it is so difficult I cannot pass?
You have the option of quitting an exam without reporting the scores. Ask the test administrator about that on test day.

What if I have a disability?
Contact Disability Services at 315.312.3358 for accommodations.

Will there be breaks or rest periods?
Unless you are a person receiving accommodations for a specific disability, no rest period is authorized.

The CLEP application says I may use a credit card. Why must I also send you a check for $25.00 to register?
CLEP allows local test centers to charge a test administration fee. The Extended Learning Division at Oswego State administers the CLEP exams and accepts, in person, checks or money orders made out to SUNY Oswego CLEP for payment. You may use a credit card, check or money order made out to CLEP for the $80.00 on test day.

If I don't score high enough, may I retake the test next month?
CLEP requires that a test taker wait six months to retake an exam.  

It is your responsibility to register for and take the correct exam.

Note #1 - The General Examinations may not be used by Oswego seniors to complete the Arts & Sciences credits needed to meet graduation requirements.

Note #2 - The college will award credit for examinations in Business. However, the School of Business will not grant CLEP credit within the major for core courses and they may not be used for Wellness Management cognates.

The "Minimum Score," "Semester Hours," and "Course Equivalent" columns listed here apply specifically to the awarding of credit by Oswego State University. If you are submitting scores to another college or program, check that institution's policy for the awarding of credit for CLEP tests.

Test Site location is the SUNY Oswego Phoenix Center
70 County Route 59 | Phoenix, NY 13135