Can You Take CLEP Exams Online? Everything You Need to Know

One of the most common questions we get from students looking to earn college credits is: can you take CLEP exams online? The answer has changed quite a bit over the past few years, and honestly, it's not as straightforward as you might hope. But don't worry - we'll break down everything you need to know.

Whether you're a busy working professional, a stay-at-home parent, or someone who just doesn't have a CLEP testing center near you, understanding your options for taking CLEP exams online can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

In this guide, we'll cover the current state of online CLEP testing, how remote proctoring works, what you need to take the test from home, and some insider tips to make your testing experience as smooth as possible. Let's dive in.

Can You Take CLEP Exams Online? The Short Answer

Here's the deal: are CLEP exams online? Yes and no. The College Board introduced remote proctoring for CLEP exams during the pandemic, and while it's still available, there are some important caveats to understand.

Currently, you have two main options for taking CLEP exams:

• In-person at a testing center: This is the traditional method. You schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center or a college/university testing center that offers CLEP.
• Online with remote proctoring: You can take your exam from home using your own computer, monitored by a live proctor through your webcam.

The catch? Not all CLEP exams are available for remote proctoring, and there are specific technical and environmental requirements you need to meet. We'll get into all of that below.

Before you decide how to take your exam, though, make sure you're actually prepared to pass it. Our 1-hour CLEP tutoring sessions use AI diagnostics to identify exactly what you need to study - saving you weeks of unfocused prep time.

CLEP Remote Proctoring: How It Works

So are CLEP exams proctored when you take them online? Absolutely. In fact, the proctoring is pretty intense compared to what you might experience at a testing center.

Here's how CLEP remote proctoring works:

Before the Exam

1. Account setup: You'll create an account through the College Board's remote proctoring partner (currently Proctortrack / ETS).
2. System check: You'll need to run a system check to make sure your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet connection meet the requirements.
3. Environment scan: Before starting, you'll show your testing space with your webcam - including under your desk and around the room.

During the Exam

• A live proctor watches you through your webcam throughout the entire exam
• Your screen is recorded and monitored for any suspicious activity
• You can't have any unauthorized materials - no phones, notes, or other devices
• You typically can't leave your seat until the exam is complete
• The proctor can communicate with you through chat or audio if needed

Honestly, some students find the remote proctoring more stressful than taking the exam at a testing center. Having someone watch you through your webcam for 90+ minutes isn't everyone's cup of tea. But for others, the convenience of testing from home outweighs that discomfort.

CLEP Testing Centers vs. Online Proctoring: Pros and Cons

Let's break down the real differences between finding a CLEP testing center near you versus taking your exam online with remote proctoring.

In-Person Testing Centers

Online Remote Proctoring

Technical Requirements for Online CLEP Exams

If you're planning to take your CLEP exam online, you'll need to make sure your setup meets these requirements. This is where a lot of students run into problems, so pay attention.

Computer Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.14+ (Chromebooks and tablets are NOT supported)
• Processor: Intel Core i3/i5/i7 or equivalent
• RAM: At least 4GB (8GB recommended)
• Storage: At least 2GB free space
• Browser: Latest version of Chrome or Firefox

Hardware Requirements

• Webcam: Built-in or external webcam with at least 640x480 resolution
• Microphone: Working microphone (most webcams have one built-in)
• Internet: Reliable broadband connection (at least 1 Mbps upload/download)
• Display: Minimum 1024x768 screen resolution

Environment Requirements

This is where things get tricky. The CLEP remote proctoring requirements for your testing space are pretty strict:

• A private, quiet room with a closed door
• Clear desk/workspace (nothing on it except your computer)
• Good lighting so the proctor can see you clearly
• No other people in the room during testing
• No dual monitors or additional devices visible
• No writing on walls or whiteboards in view of the camera

Here's something that catches people off guard: if you share a small apartment or live with roommates, finding a completely private space for 2+ hours can be challenging. Make sure you've got this figured out before scheduling your exam.

How to Schedule Your CLEP Exam (Online or In-Person)

Ready to schedule your CLEP exam online? Here's the step-by-step process for both options.

For Remote Proctored Exams

1. Create a College Board account (or log in if you have one) at clep.collegeboard.org
2. Purchase your exam ($93 per exam as of 2025)
3. Select the remote proctoring option when prompted
4. Create an account with the proctoring partner
5. Complete the system check to verify your setup
6. Schedule your appointment (often available within days)

For Testing Center Appointments

1. Create a College Board account and purchase your exam
2. Use the test center search tool to find locations near you
3. Contact the testing center directly to schedule (some use online booking)
4. Pay any additional testing center fees (typically $25-40)
5. Receive confirmation with exam date and reporting instructions

Before you schedule, make sure you're actually prepared to pass. There's no point in rushing to take an exam you're not ready for - that's $93+ down the drain if you fail. Our CLEP tutoring service includes a diagnostic assessment that tells you exactly where you stand before you book your test date.

Tips for a Smooth Online CLEP Testing Experience

If you've decided that online CLEP testing is the way to go, here are some practical tips to avoid common problems:

Before Test Day

• Do the system check at least a week early. This gives you time to troubleshoot any issues. Updating drivers, installing software, or buying a new webcam takes time.
• Practice in your testing space. Sit there for an hour and see if it stays quiet. Are there delivery people who ring? Dogs that bark? Construction noise?
• Close background programs. Antivirus software, cloud sync apps, and browser extensions can interfere with the proctoring software.
• Test your internet stability. Run speed tests at different times of day. Your connection needs to be reliable for 2+ hours straight.

On Test Day

• Log in 15-20 minutes early. The check-in process takes time, and you don't want to feel rushed.
• Have your ID ready. You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID for verification.
• Use the bathroom before starting. Once the exam begins, leaving your seat can flag your session for review or even invalidate your exam.
• Put your phone completely out of reach. Even having it buzz in another room can be flagged as suspicious.
• Stay calm if tech issues arise. The proctor can usually help you resolve minor problems. Don't panic.

What NOT to Do

• Don't look away from your screen frequently (can be flagged as suspicious)
• Don't read questions aloud or talk to yourself (yes, this gets flagged)
• Don't wear earbuds or headphones (not allowed)
• Don't have anyone else in the room, even if they're "being quiet"
• Don't cover your webcam or have poor lighting (exam will be stopped)

Frequently Asked Questions About Online CLEP Exams

Are CLEP exams available online in 2025/2026?

Yes, many CLEP exams are available online with remote proctoring. However, not all 34 CLEP exams may be available for online testing. Check the College Board website for the current list of exams offered with remote proctoring options.

Can I take CLEP exams online for free?

The exams themselves aren't free - each CLEP exam costs $93 as of 2025. However, some students qualify for fee waivers through their college, military service members can take CLEP exams for free at military testing centers, and some states offer funding programs for CLEP testing. The online proctoring option doesn't have additional fees beyond the exam cost.

Where can I take CLEP exams near me?

You have two options: (1) Use the College Board's test center finder to locate Prometric centers and university testing centers in your area, or (2) take the exam online from home with remote proctoring. Testing centers are available across the United States and at military installations worldwide.

Are CLEP exams proctored?

Yes, all CLEP exams are proctored whether you take them at a testing center or online. In-person exams have a proctor in the room. Online exams use live remote proctoring where a real person watches you through your webcam and monitors your screen throughout the entire exam.

What are the CLEP remote proctoring requirements?

You'll need a Windows or Mac computer (not Chromebook or tablet), a webcam and microphone, reliable internet connection, a private quiet room, and valid photo ID. The room must be clear of other people and unauthorized materials during the entire exam.

How long are CLEP exams?

Most CLEP exams are 90 minutes long, though some may be slightly shorter or longer. With the check-in process for online testing, you should plan for about 2-2.5 hours total. Make sure you have adequate time blocked off without interruptions.

Can I use scratch paper during an online CLEP exam?

The policies on scratch paper for online proctored exams can vary. Some proctoring setups allow a small whiteboard that you show to the camera before and after the exam. Check the current requirements when you schedule your appointment, as these details can change.

What happens if my internet goes out during the exam?

If you experience a technical disconnection, you typically have a short window to reconnect and resume your exam. The proctoring software usually saves your progress. However, extended disconnections or multiple issues may require you to reschedule. This is why a stable internet connection is so important.

Do CLEP credits transfer between colleges?

CLEP credits can transfer, but acceptance varies by institution. Before taking exams, verify that your target school accepts CLEP credits and check which specific exams and score thresholds they require. Read our guide on CLEP exam requirements by college for detailed information on credit policies.

Making Your CLEP Testing Decision

So, can you take CLEP exams online? Yes - but whether you should depends on your specific situation.

Choose online remote proctoring if:

• You live far from testing centers
• You have a reliable computer and internet setup
• You have access to a private, quiet space for 2+ hours
• You're comfortable with webcam monitoring
• You want maximum scheduling flexibility

Choose a testing center if:

• You don't have a reliable home setup
• You can't guarantee a quiet, private environment
• You find the idea of webcam proctoring stressful
• You want to take an exam not available for online testing
• There's a convenient testing center near you

Either way, the most important factor in passing your CLEP exam isn't where you take it - it's how well you prepare. Whether you need focused 1-hour tutoring to fill specific knowledge gaps or comprehensive CLEP support, going in confident makes all the difference.

Good luck on your CLEP journey! With the right preparation and testing setup, you'll be earning college credits before you know it.

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