The DSST Credit-by-Exam Program is a nationally recognized tool that allows students to earn college credit for knowledge gained outside the traditional classroom. Designed for college students, adult learners, high school students, and military personnel, DSST provides a flexible pathway to reduce both the time and cost of earning a degree.
DSST offers more than 30 exams across a wide range of subjects, including Social Sciences, Math, Business, Applied Technology, Humanities, and Physical Sciences. Exams are available in both lower- and upper-level college course equivalents, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate learning acquired through independent study, work experience, on-the-job training, military service, or personal research.
Over 1,500 colleges and universities accept passing DSST scores for credit.
Each DSST exam costs $100, significantly less than the price of a traditional three-credit college course, which can cost $750 or more. Some testing centers may also charge a small administration fee.
The American Council on Education (ACE) has evaluated and recommended college credit for all DSST exams, ensuring broad recognition. By earning credit through DSST, students can save money, accelerate graduation, and advance more quickly toward academic and career goals.
Complete an Off-Campus Study Approval Form
Step 1
If you are a matriculated student at SUNY Oswego and intend to have the score sent to SUNY Oswego, you must file an Off-Campus Study Approval Form prior to taking the DSST examination in order to ensure you will receive credit as expected.
Your advisor must review this form and sign it before submitting it to the Registrars office.
It is your responsibility to register for and to take the correct exam.
For additional information, call the Division of Extended Learning at 315.312.2270.
Gathering the Correct Information
Step 2
The registration for the exam will take place on the day of testing, at the testing lab, prior to beginning your exam. You will need to be prepared with the following to register and pay for the exam:
- The 4-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient code
- Your Social Security number
- A credit or debit card (The cost of the exam is $100.00 and will be paid during the registration)
- A photo Identification
Schedule your test
Step 3
The Division of Extended Learning is responsible for proctoring DSST exams administered on the SUNY Oswego campus. It is necessary to contact the testing coordinator to schedule an appointment to test.
Please email: testingandproctoring@oswego.
Testing takes place in Room 314 of Sheldon Hall on the SUNY Oswego Campus.
Pay the SUNY Oswego Proctoring Fee
Step 4
Please make the appropriate payment for proctoring for our testing center.
$30.00 for SUNY Oswego students
$40.00 for non- SUNY Oswego students