<p>I was wondering how do AP and CLEP credits really benefit you? I understand that you receive credit for intro classes, but aren't those supposed to boost your gpa? Is there any point to taking these exams (especially CLEP) during senior year?</p>
<p>Credits acquired through AP and CLEP tests are very helpful for getting general education credits out of the way in classes that are NOT in your major (assuming that your college accepts these credits). This can enable you to take more classes that are of interest to you rather than those that are required. You might be able to register earlier than other students in your year if the credit hours are used to determine registration order. And if your major program has an entrance barrier after a certain number of credit hours, you may be able to pass that barrier earlier and be eligible for more upper level classes. </p>
<p>CLEP tests are easier to pass than AP tests and should definitely be considered if you are attending a public school. My son is taking CLEP tests for the classes he hates so that he never has to take them again and can chose more interesting classes instead. Also, you can take CLEP tests at any time so you can wait until the end of the school year and then take them while the material is still fresh in your mind.</p>
<p>If you’re curious about the credits you recieve, go here: <a href=“AP Credit Policy Search - AP Students | College Board”>View Your AP Scores – AP Students | College Board;
If you don’t trust the link, search this: AP Credit Policy Search
I believe AP tests are very helpful at saving you money for college and boosting your gpa. CLEP tests I hear are also beneficial: my friend’s 50 year old mother took the bio one with little prep., and passed (she only needed a D ,for community college, she got a B). So in short: AP tests are much harder than CLEP tests, but it’s more beneficial to take AP courses and tests because it shows your determination and hard work that colleges like to see.</p>