The DANTES (Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Educational Support) Subject Standardized Test (DSST) was originally started for the US Military so that enlisted Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines could earn college credit while serving on active duty in locations that weren't serving the non-traditional student. Service members moved frequently and had little chance of meeting all their degree requirements at one college. The Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) was the best at this as the Air Force developed an accredited 2 year college to award Associates degrees to Air Force Personnel. The program has since been made available to the civilian population so that more colleges and universities would accept this form of credit by examination by military personnel. Each test is designed to provide individuals the opportunity to earn college credits for the knowledge they have gained outside the classroom.

DSST tests are currently maintained and administered by PROMETRIC and registration is $70 but many colleges and local testing sites often charge a local fee of $15 to $25. Each examination offers the examinee the opportunity to earn three credit hours at traditional colleges and universities provided that the examinee has achieved a high enough score. Each test has a score, established by formal testing of students who had recently passed a similar course and achieved a passing grade.

While most DSST examinations earn the passer credit that is considered to be freshman or sophomore credit, there are a number of exams that do award credit that is considered to be junior or senior level.

There is at least on DSST in math, science, history, business and other general education requirements. The number of history exams, in conjunction with the CLEP history exams will fulfill the majority of credits required for a degree in History from Excelsior College of New York which has been designed for the adult learner.

DSST tests are approved by the American Council on Education (ACE); therefore, test scores can be accepted and used for credit at over 1,500 colleges and universities nationwide. Some colleges require a higher score than the ACE recommended score or limit the amount of credit-by-examination credits that can be applied toward a degree or that they will accept. To make sure you don't take unnecessary exams, check with your university's admissions office.

The DSST examination program is a great way for students and working adults to accelerate their path to a degree. This was one of many tools I used to finish my undergraduate degree so that I could earn my graduate degree, both of which I did while serving on active duty in the Navy. It worked for me, and I'm sure it will work for you. Get the DSST fact sheet for the exam of your choice at http://www.getcollegecredit.co m/07military_a.html#factsheets and read the book they recommend. Read the book, take the test, earn the credit!

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