What is the DSST?
The DSST (Dantes Subject Standardized Tests) is an examination-for-credit program developed by Thomson Prometric that expands and complements the range of tests offered by the CLEP (College Level Examination Program) and other similar programs.
Through DSST, you can receive college credit for what you already know, including knowledge acquired outside the traditional classroom.
Thirty-seven different DSST examinations are available in fields related to Applied Technology, Mathematics, Humanities, Physical Science, Business, and Social Science. A complete list of DSST exams can be found in the DSST Candidate Information Bulletin, available at all AMIDEAST offices and on the DSST Web site.
Over 1,600 participating colleges and universities in the United States award undergraduate college credit for taking and passing one or more of these tests. By taking and passing these examinations, you may be able to fill certain degree requirements, thus shortening the time it takes to complete your degree, or you may be able to take more advanced courses in the specific field tested.
How do I get credit for DSST examinations?
The DSST Web site lists colleges and universities that have formally agreed to award credit for DSST examinations. To find out if the college of your choice awards credit for acceptable DSST scores, contact the admissions office or counseling and testing office of the school. The college can also provide information on which courses you may bypass if your score is satisfactory.
The DSST program is approved by the American Council on Education, which recommends the minimum passing score for any given test. However, some schools require a score higher than the ACE recommendation.
Always check directly with the institution you plan to attend to obtain the most complete and current information.
Where do I get DSST bulletin information?
AMIDEAST/Morocco maintains a supply of bulletins and other information on DSST. You can also find information on DSST and order a bulletin through the DSST Web site.
Where and when can I take the DSST?
The DSST examinations are offered by arrangement with AMIDEAST at AMIDEAST test centers.
How do I register for the DSST?
Please contact AMIDEAST for registration and payment information. You will be asked to pay a test fee and an AMIDEAST service fee for each examination for which you register.
How do I prepare for DSST exams?
You should become familiar with the content and format of each DSST examination you take. There are several ways to prepare:
What should I do on the day of the exam?
What about my scores?
Approximately four weeks after your test date, your score report will be sent from the Thomson Prometric International in the United States to the address that you have given on your answer sheet. For security reasons you will not be able to receive your score report over the telephone. Please allow sufficient time for the mail to reach you before you contact DSST Customer Service about a missing score report.
How do colleges get my scores?
On your exam answer sheet you will have the opportunity to designate one institution to which you want your score report sent. Your score report will be sent directly to this institution from the Thomson Prometric International. The price for this score report is included in your test fee.
If you do not designate an institution on your answer sheet but later decide that you want to have your scores sent there, you will have to request that a transcript of your scores be sent. To do so, complete a Transcript Order Form available on the DSST Web site, use the form located in your Candidate Information Bulletin, or request a form from AMIDEAST. You must include payment in the form of a certified check drawn on a U.S. bank, a U.S. money order, or a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express). The Thomson Prometric International will mail your transcript directly to the designated institution within three weeks of receipt of the order form