CLEP tests span 34 subjects across five categories—composition and literature, world languages, history and social sciences, science and math, and business—each offering 3-12 college credits for passing scores.
What are CLEP Tests?
CLEP tests are the individual examinations within the College-Level Examination Program, each assessing mastery of a specific college course equivalent. The 34 available tests cover subjects from College Algebra to American Literature to Financial Accounting. Most are 90-minute, multiple-choice assessments, though some include essay components. Passing scores (typically 50 on a 20-80 scale) earn college credits at accepting institutions—usually 3-6 credits per exam, with language tests potentially earning up to 12. Understanding which tests exist, their relative difficulty, and their credit value helps families plan strategically.
Key Takeaways
- Total of 34 tests organized into five subject categories
- Score range of 20-80 with 50 as the standard passing threshold
- Language tests offer the highest credit potential (up to 12 credits)
- Pass rates vary significantly—some tests are notably easier than others
- Modern States provides free prep for all 34 tests with exam vouchers
Tests by Category
History and Social Sciences offers 12 tests including U.S. History I and II, Western Civilization I and II, Psychology, Sociology, and Economics. Composition and Literature covers 6 tests from College Composition to American Literature. Science and Mathematics includes 7 tests: Biology, Chemistry, College Algebra, Calculus, and more. Business provides 5 tests including Financial Accounting and Introductory Business Law. World Languages offers 4 tests in Spanish, French, and German. Most homeschoolers focus on history, social sciences, and composition tests—they align well with typical curriculum and tend to have higher pass rates.
Easier vs. Harder Tests
Pass rates and student experiences reveal clear patterns. Spanish Language, Introductory Sociology, Psychology, and Western Civilization I tend to be more accessible. Analyzing & Interpreting Literature favors strong readers. College Mathematics (for non-majors) is more manageable than Calculus or Precalculus. The sciences—Biology, Chemistry—require substantial content knowledge. Financial Accounting demands technical precision. These patterns should inform your testing sequence. Building confidence with accessible tests first creates momentum. Tackling harder exams only when genuinely prepared prevents discouragement.
Preparation Resources
Modern States remains the standout resource: free courses for all 34 tests, plus vouchers covering exam and test center fees for students who complete courses. REA publishes dedicated study guides for most subjects with practice tests. Peterson's offers a subscription-based platform ($49/month) with comprehensive prep for every exam. InstantCert provides flashcard-based review popular in homeschool circles. Many families layer resources—using Modern States as the foundation, supplementing with REA guides for specific tests, and adding flashcard review before exam day.
The Bottom Line
The 34 CLEP tests represent a menu of opportunities, not a checklist to complete. Strategic test selection—choosing exams that align with your student's strengths, your curriculum, and your target colleges' policies—matters more than quantity. Most homeschoolers find their sweet spot taking 5-12 tests during high school, focusing on general education requirements while saving major-specific courses for actual college instruction. The goal isn't maximizing CLEP credits but optimizing the path through higher education.
