KnowHow2Transfer
College Credit by Exam
Students who demonstrate competency in a subject area should have their accomplishments recognized. Incoming students can earn credit for select courses at Kentucky institutions on Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge International, Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DSST), and College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests as well.
Find out what you've earned. Choose the exams that you’ve taken and the universities you’re interested in and see how these exams can translate into college credit. Here is a comprehensive list, or you can use the individual links below.
Advanced Placement (AP)
Advanced Placement® (AP) are high school courses that can lead to college credit if the student earns a 3 or above on the end-of-course exam. Kentucky law requires public colleges and universities to grant credit toward graduation to a student who scores at least “3” on College Board Advanced Placement examinations.
More information on AP:
• AP Courses Available at Kentucky High Schools
• Kentucky Department of Education
• AP Course Descriptions
• AP Exam Dates and Fees
College-Level Examination Program® (CLEP)
Although traditionally taken by adult learners, College-Level Examination Program® (CLEP) tests can be taken by any student. There are currently 34 exams that cover introductory
college-level material.
More information on CLEP: College Board CLEP
International Baccalaureate® (IB)
International Baccalaureate is a college preparatory curriculum currently offered in eight Kentucky high schools.
Some Kentucky colleges and universities offer college credit based on IB test scores.
More IB information from KDE.
Cambridge Assessment
Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of the University of Cambridge and offers a college preparatory curriculum.
Some colleges and universities offer credit for certain A and AS level scores.
More information on Cambridge International:
• Kentucky Department of Education
• Organizations that accept Cambridge Qualifications
Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DSST)
Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DSST) exams have been traditionally taken by military service members, but these 38 exams
can be taken by anyone.
More information about DSST:
• DSST Preparation
