In the Military? You May Be Eligible for College Credit Through DSST
Your time in the military taught you so much—from confidence and decision-making skills to teamwork and self-reliance. You may actually be able to earn college credit for the valuable life skills and knowledge acquired in the military to move forward with the next step of your career.
Earning College Credit Through DSST
Certain military personnel are eligible to earn college credit by passing DSST exams, which are standardized tests that evaluate the knowledge you’ve learned outside the classroom. DSST includes 38 subject exams in disciplines including physical and social sciences, math, technology, business, and the humanities. Each test contains material similar to what you’d find on the final exam of an undergraduate college course. By passing an exam, you can earn credit towards an undergraduate or graduate degree at over 1,500 academic institutions across the country.
Who Is Eligible to Participate?
The Department of Defense permits certain military personnel to take the exams at no cost under Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). These include:
- Active duty, Guard, and Reserve members
- U.S. Coast Guard and USCG Reserve members
- Air Force Civil Service employees
- Spouses of active duty and reserve USCG members
Other military personnel are eligible to take DSST tests, but not to receive funding under DANTES.
Advantages of Passing DSST Exams
Passing DSST exams can decrease the amount of time it takes to earn a college degree at academic institutions that accept credit for prior learning. Taking fewer classes can reduce the need for financial assistance, and it’s a cost-effective way to receive credit towards a degree for the hard work you’ve already put in outside the classroom. Plus, study guides and test prep materials are free and easy to come by online and at education centers.
Credit for Prior Learning at Tulane SoPA
The Tulane School of Professional Advancement helps military personnel prepare for the next step in their careers by participating in the DSST program. You may be able to apply up to 24 credits for prior learning toward an undergraduate degree at SoPA, where you can enroll in courses ranging from public relations to emergency and security studies. Our courses are designed with the flexibility to accommodate working adults, including online study. Call us today at (504) 865-5555 to learn more.
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