The Easiest CLEP Exams to Pass for Quick College Credits

Introduction

The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) provides students of any age with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement and earn college credit by passing exams in a wide range of subjects. With over 30 exams covering material taught in courses that most students take as requirements in their first two years of college, Easiest CLEP exams to pass will allow you to skip introductory courses and move directly into more advanced classes.

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Passing a CLEP exam means you can earn 3-12 credits, depending on the exam, at over 2,900 colleges and universities. This allows you to save a significant amount of time and money on your degree. However, CLEP exams require thorough preparation as you need to score a minimum of 50 out of 80 points to pass.

This article will provide an overview of some of the CLEP exams considered easier to pass, study resources available, and tips on preparing for the exams.

Easiest CLEP Exams

While the difficulty level of CLEP exams is subjective, there are some exams that are widely regarded as easier based on the material tested. Here are some of the CLEP exams you may want to consider if aiming to earn quick and easy college credits:

1. Spanish Language

The Spanish Language exam aims to measure your listening, reading, and writing skills in Spanish. No speaking component is involved. It covers material typically taught in first- and second-year college Spanish language courses.

This is considered one of the easier CLEP exams as you mainly need to demonstrate comprehension of written and spoken Spanish. The exam involves multiple-choice questions as well as fill-in-the-blank questions where you need to provide the missing word.

2. College Composition & College Composition Modular

The College Composition and College Composition Modular exams aim to measure your ability to write effectively in college. It involves a 90-minute essay portion along with 50 multiple choice questions covering reading comprehension, critical thinking, and proper grammar and usage.

The essay tasks are designed to be broad enough for you to draw content from personal experience and knowledge. Hence, this exam is regarded as easier for those with strong language and writing skills.

3. French Language

Similar to the Spanish exam, the French Language exam aims to test your listening, reading, and writing proficiency in French through multiple-choice questions and fill-in-the-blank questions. There is no speaking test.

If you have studied French in high school or have basic familiarity with French, you may find this exam easier to pass compared to other language exams with speaking components.

4. Analyzing & Interpreting Literature

This exam tests your ability to critically analyze and interpret works of literature. It involves four categories: prose, poetry, drama from different time periods, and identifying literary devices.

For literature enthusiasts who enjoy analyzing written works, this exam may be easier as you can draw from your own reading experience and insight.

5. Introductory Sociology

The Introductory Sociology exam aims to measure your understanding of the topics typically covered in a college introductory sociology course. This includes sociological perspectives, culture, social structure, socialization, groups, and more.

As an introductory exam, it covers a broad range of sociology concepts which you may be familiar with if you have prior exposure to sociology or social sciences.

6. Social Sciences and History

This exam covers content typical of an introductory college course surveying basic concepts in social sciences and history. The material tested spans world history, political science, geography, economics, psychology, and more.

The wide range of topics makes this exam easier for those who are interested in and have broadly studied the social sciences and history.

7. College Mathematics

The College Mathematics exam measures your ability to solve problems covering topics typically taught in a college math course. This includes algebra, college algebra, trigonometry, and elementary functions.

If you have taken high school math courses in algebra and trigonometry, you likely have foundational knowledge that will make this exam easier. However, you will still need to thoroughly review the concepts.

8. Human Growth and Development

This exam aims to measure knowledge of human development across the lifespan. It covers material you would typically learn in a one-semester introductory college course focused on human growth and development.

For those who find psychology and human behavior interesting, the material may come more naturally and make this an easier CLEP exam.

Resources for CLEP Exam Preparation

While some CLEP exams may seem easier than others, they all require thorough preparation as you need to achieve a qualifying score of 50 out of 80 points.

Here are some recommended study resources to help you prepare efficiently for your chosen CLEP exam:

• Official College Board CLEP study guides – These provide key information directly from the test maker, including test-taking tips, sample questions, and full-length practice tests.
• Free study guides – Sources like Free-Clep-Prep.com offer free study guides, practice tests, and flashcards for select CLEP exams.
• Online courses – Self-paced prep courses like those offered by Study.com include video lessons, diagnostic quizzes, and full-length practice exams.
• Practice tests – Taking practice tests lets you experience the exam format and identify your weak areas. The College Board website has sample questions for all exams.
• Study groups – Connect with other CLEP exam takers online or in person to discuss strategies and quiz each other.
• Tutoring – Consider working with a tutor experienced in your CLEP exam subject for personalized guidance.

Tips for Passing CLEP Exams

Here are some key tips to keep in mind when preparing for your CLEP exam:

• Review the exam description – This outlines the exam format, topics covered, number of questions, and more.
• Learn the exam structure – Understand how many multiple-choice vs fill-in questions are on the exam.
• Master the content – Study with a range of resources and take practice tests to identify weak areas.
• Read critically – For literature and composition exams, practice close reading and analysis of content.
• Practice writing skills – For composition exams, work on drafting and editing various types of essays.
• Strengthen test-taking skills – Practice pacing yourself and employ strategies like process of elimination.
• Get plenty of rest – Cramming late into the night before the exam will only hinder performance.

With the right level of preparation using recommended study resources, passing one of the easier CLEP exams can be readily achievable for most students. Earning just a few quick college credits can provide a nice transcript boost while potentially saving you time and tuition dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions on Easiest CLEP Exams

What is the absolute easiest CLEP exam?

There is no definitive “easiest” CLEP exam, as the difficulty level is subjective and depends on an individual’s strengths and weaknesses. However, some CLEP exams like Spanish, College Composition, and College Mathematics are widely considered easier options for many people.

How long should I study for an easy CLEP exam?

Even for exams considered easier, you still need to thoroughly study and prepare. It is recommended you spend at least 2-3 weeks studying if you have some background in the subject, and 4-6 weeks if you are starting from scratch. Taking practice tests is key.

Can I take CLEP exams with no preparation?

It is not advisable to take a CLEP exam with no preparation. While you may have existing knowledge of some subjects, you still need to review the specific topics tested and practice exam-style questions. Unprepared attempts often result in failing scores.

What score do I need to pass a CLEP exam?

You need to achieve a minimum score of 50 out of 80 points on a CLEP exam in order to pass and earn college credit. Some colleges may require scores higher than 50 to grant credit for select exams.

If I fail an easy CLEP exam, can I retake it?

Yes, you can retake a CLEP exam that you failed. However, you must wait at least 3 months before retaking the same exam. It is recommended to thoroughly review your weak areas before attempting the exam again.

Conclusion

Earning college credit through the College-Level Examination Program can accelerate your degree progress and potentially save you time and money. While passing CLEP exams requires rigorous preparation, some exams like Spanish, College Composition, and Introductory Sociology are typically regarded as more achievable options. Using study guides, practice tests, tutoring, and other resources can help you successfully pass an “easy” CLEP exam. Just be sure to set aside adequate study time based on your existing knowledge. With focus and determination, passing an easy CLEP exam can get you closer to your degree goals.

Table: Easiest CLEP Exams