Overview
DSST is a credit-by-exam program in the United States. It lets a learner earn college credit for knowledge they already have, from work experience, independent study, military training or self-study, instead of sitting through a full college course. The exams are owned and administered by Prometric, which took the program over in 2004 from DANTES, the Department of Defense programme that started it in 1974.
Who can take it
Since 2006, DSST exams have been open to anyone seeking college credit outside a traditional classroom: college students, adult learners, high school students and military personnel.
Structure or exam pattern
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | Internet or paper-based, multiple choice |
| Length | 100 questions |
| Time | 2 hours |
| Number of exam titles | 30+ |
| Credit per pass | 3 baccalaureate credits |
The Principles of Public Speaking exam also includes a recorded speech component in addition to multiple choice questions.
What it covers
The 30+ exam titles are grouped into six subject areas: Business, Math, Humanities, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences and Technology. Business has the most titles, covering subjects such as Business Ethics and Society, Money and Banking, and Introduction to Business. Other areas include Fundamentals of College Algebra, Ethics in America, Introduction to World Religions, Astronomy, Fundamentals of Cybersecurity and Technical Writing, among others.
Scoring and results
The American Council on Education's College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT) has evaluated and recommends college credit for all 30+ DSST exams.
Recognition
DSST states it is recognized by more than 1,500 colleges and universities in the United States, which award college credit for a passing score.
Dates and fees
For 2026, each DSST exam costs $100. Institutions that administer the exam may add their own test administration fee on top of this.
How to register
Exams are taken at colleges, universities and other institutions that administer DSST, or online at participating locations; a learner registers and pays through the administering institution.
Preparation tips
Because each exam covers what is usually a full-semester college course, review a course syllabus or study guide for the specific exam title before attempting it, since passing means the credit is granted without taking the course.
Does passing a DSST exam guarantee college credit?
Credit is granted according to the policy of the college or university a student attends. DSST states that more than 1,500 institutions recognize the program and award credit for a passing score, but each institution sets its own credit policy.
Who administers DSST exams?
Prometric has owned and administered DSST since 2004. The program originated with DANTES, a Department of Defense initiative, in 1974.
How long does a DSST exam take?
Most DSST exams are 100 multiple choice questions with a 2-hour time limit. The Principles of Public Speaking exam also has a recorded speech component.
How much does a DSST exam cost?
For 2026, the exam fee is $100 per title, and the institution administering it may charge an additional test administration fee.