Is CLEP completely pass/fail?

[n_runner]

I recently took a Peterson's test cold for "Information Systems and Computer Applications" and scored around 70%, so I could probably pass the CLEP test right now if I wanted to. At first I thought I'd try to do some more studying, so I could get a decent score (especially since this is the general area I'd be getting a degree in), but is there even any point? Does it make a difference whether I score 51 or 80 on any CLEP tests?

[JanusthePhoenix]

Depends on your college, but in most cases it doesn't matter.

[MISin08]

Well, it might make a difference to you, and that's OK. Also you never know who might ask to see your transcript somewhere down the line. Finally if you think you may be taking additional computer exams, the more you learn for each one, the better you may do on the next. But as far as helping your GPA, no, it makes no difference at most schools I know of.

Phillip

[MelB8tz]

From my research, it differs with the school. My local university will only accept CLEPs if they're above 55 (each university has a right to set their own minimum score).

With TESC, they use ACE standards (minimum is 50). My research (though I don't have it in writing), TESC does not keep track of GPA from exams and transferred credit, so it's completely pass/fail.

With EC, I think they use ACE as well, but am pretty sure they keep track of GPA. So though a 50 is a pass, it will also hurt your GPA, being considered a "C" by ACE standards.

I'm not sure about Charter Oak.

Check with your university to be sure.

[jaer57]

One other thing to check is that not all universities go completely by the ACE recommended scores for CLEP. My school accepted all the CLEP exams, however, they required a higher score for the English composition, college mathematics and natural sciences CLEPs than the ACE recommended score. Like everyone else is recommending, it's a good practice to just verify the school's policy.

Good luck!

[NAP]

With EC, I think they use ACE as well, but am pretty sure they keep track of GPA. So though a 50 is a pass, it will also hurt your GPA, being considered a "C" by ACE standards.

I believe that Excelsior used to award grades for CLEP exams depending on the score; however, all CLEP exams are now only pass/fail at Excelsior and do not affect GPA.

[MelB8tz]

I believe that Excelsior used to award grades for CLEP exams depending on the score; however, all CLEP exams are now only pass/fail at Excelsior and do not affect GPA.

That's great to know, thank you! That's also helpful to know when it comes to deciding between TESC and EC

[Ruddigore]

It doesn't really matter what you score as long as it is above your college's minimum credit requirement, unless you have a hankering for scoring well. I try to get above 60 whenever I take an exam.

Keeping yourself academically motivated helps make the learning process more effective -- and fun!

[n_runner]

Thanks everyone! I can't check with "my school" yet because I don't even know where I'm going...:o (I'm still in highschool.)

But it sounds like it's a good idea to do some extra study anyway...

[P00057870]

Others have posted on this site that even if your school sees them as pass/fail, if you plan on going on for graduate studes (masters, MBA, etc.) they will require you to submit a transcript from CLEP and review your scores at that time. I suspect this may also vary with your school.

Maybe someone who has already been through this application process can share that information.