Testing Center - DSST

The nationally recognized DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) program allows students to earn college credits for learning acquired outside the traditional classroom.  College credit is available in over 30 unique subjects, including business, humanities, mathematics, physical science, and more.  This offers students a way to Save Time, Save Money, and Graduate Sooner!  For information on DSST exams visit www.getcollegecredit.com.   

Texas A&M-San Antonio Testing Center is an open center for DSST testing and currently offers all DSST subject level exams, with the exception of Public Speaking.  DSST requires $100 fee for each test, which may be paid by debit/credit card only on the day of the exam.  In addition, A&M-SA Testing Center requires an administration fee for DSST testing of $20.  The administrative fee will be paid when the exam is scheduled.  Texas A&M University-San Antonio Testing Center is a DANTES Fully Funded testing site.  The first attempt for eligible military personnel, civilian employee, and spouse of participating Reserve Component and Coast Guard personnel has no cost.  Candidates must register under DSST Military.  Please refer to the DANTES Eligibility Chart for additional information.  

DSST Eligibility for A&M-SA Students

DSST cannot duplicate or repeat credit already earned through college or university classes.  Students can receive credit for a passed DSST exam for courses in which they have received grades of "F," "NC" or "W" since these grades do not represent hours earned.  Students may not receive any DSST credit for courses which credit has already been awarded, including courses taken and awarded a grade of "A," "B," "C," or "D" grade .  In order for A&M-SA to award credit, the individual must be a current A&M-SA student.  Students must order official score reports to be sent directly to A&M-SA.

Register for DSST Exam

Step 1: Select the DSST exam(s) you would like to take.  For a complete list of DSST exams, please visit their website here.  Verify the exam fits within your degree plan and is accepted by your institution by contacting your academic advisor. 

Step 2:  Schedule your appointment online here.  You will be required to pay the *administrative fee during the scheduling process.

*Eligible military personnel, civilian employee, and spouse of participating Reserve Component and Coast Guard personnel you will not have to pay the administrative fee.  Please refer to the DANTES Eligibility Chart for additional information.  DSST candidates that have DANTES fund their exam, must bring the appropriate identification which includes Geneva Convention Identification Card ID. 

Step 3: Day of Exam:  Bring a valid debit/credit card (to pay for the DSST exam) and two forms of official identification.  Primary ID must be a valid, government or state issued with a photo and signature.  Secondary ID may be a state or government employee ID, Social Security card, Military ID with signature only or unused ID valid, government or state issued ID.  Eligible military personnel, civilian employee, and spouse of participating Reserve Component and Coast Guard personnel that have DANTES fund their exam must bring their CAC ID. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DSST?

DSST exams are a form of prior learning and offers students a cost effective, time saving way to use their knowledge acquired outside the classroom (perhaps from reading, on-the-job training, or independent study) to accomplish their educational goals.  Offered are more than 30 exams in college subject areas such as Social Science, Math, Applied Technology, Business, Physical Science, and Humanities.  The exams are evaluated and recommended for college credit by the American Council on Education’s College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE Credit).   

How long is each DSST exam?

All DSST online exams are 2 hours.

Can I re-take a DSST exam?

Yes, but you have to wait 30 days between test dates.

Do I have to be an A&M-SA student to take a DSST exam at A&M-SA?

No, A&M-SA Testing Center offers DSST exams to anyone.  Examinees have the opportunity before starting the actual exam to select a specific institution to which the scores should be sent.  It is helpful to have your institution’s code prior to starting the exam.  A&M-SA’s DSST code is 9638.

How much does DSST exams cost?

Each computer-based exam costs $120 ($100 to DSST and $20 to A&M-SA).  The $20 administration fee will be required when you schedule your appointment.  The $100 exam fee will be paid the day of the exam.  First attempt for eligible military personnel, civilian employee, and spouse of participating Reserve Component and Coast Guard personnel is funded by DANTES.  Please refer to the DANTES Eligibility Chart for additional information.  DSST candidates that have DANTES fund their exam, must bring the appropriate identification which includes Geneva Convention Identification Card ID. 

What should I bring with me to the Testing Center?

Examinees must show two valid forms of identification, one government or state issued with a photo and signature.  As well as a valid credit card or debit card to pay for the exam. 

Texas A&M-San Antonio DSST Articulation Table