We talk so much about CLEP that you might be planning your teen’s first attempt at the end of this semester. I hope you are! In this post, there are some tips for YOU and some tips for your TEEN to help make sure that your first exam is a success.
Tips for Parents
We have a Homeschooling for College Credit Facebook group to help you get CLEP support! Connect with other HS4CC parents just like you! JOIN THE GROUP
✅ Follow Through—Make Them Take It!
If your student has studied, if you know they are passing their practice tests, they should take the test—even if they don’t feel “100% ready.” I’ve talked to parents who have pushed back their teen’s test date, stretching it out for weeks and weeks. Many parents second-guess whether their teen should go through with it, but following through is part of the learning process. If they are prepared, take the test!
✅ Use Modern States for a Free CLEP
CLEP exams can be completely free by using Modern States, which provides free prep courses and exam vouchers. The exam is free, and then remote proctoring is also free. If you need to use a testing center, you can get reimbursed after the exam (save your receipt!) 👉 Learn how to take a CLEP for free here.
✅ Know the Testing Center Logistics
If you’re going to a testing center instead of remote proctoring, don’t forget to do some advanced planning.
- Plan extra time for parking, check-in, and paying any testing fees.
- Some test centers have separate locations for payment and exam rooms.
- Call ahead if you’re unsure about ID requirements or test-day procedures.
✅ Bring the Right Items
Your student must bring:
- A valid government-issued ID (like a driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
- Their CLEP registration ticket.
- Money for the test center fee (if required).
✅ Explain the CLEP Scoring System
The CLEP scale is 20-80, so while some of us assume “70 is passing,” that’s not true with CLEP! When your student sees their score, they should look for 50 or higher. A CLEP passing score is 50.
Advice for Students
📌 Ask for Scratch Paper
Even if you think you won’t need it, ask for scratch paper before starting your exam. You can immediately jot down key formulas, dates, or essential facts.
📌 Answer Every Question—No Guessing Penalty!
CLEP exams do not penalize wrong answers. If you don’t know an answer, make your best guess and “mark” the question to review later if time allows.
📌 Expect to See Unfamiliar Topics
You won’t know everything on the test—and that’s okay! CLEP exams cover broad subjects, so you might see terms or questions you haven’t studied. Don’t let that shake your confidence. Keep going!
📌 Never Cancel Your Score
At the end of the exam, you’ll be asked multiple times if you want to cancel your score. Never cancel! I don’t know why this is even an option, but proceed to get your score.
Special shout out to HS4CC parent Jenny B. for her contribution to this post!
