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Receiving a college degree can be time consuming and can cost a lot of hard-earned money. There are many ways to get credit for classes and subjects that you already know, without having to sit through lecture after lecture.
The college level examination program is designed for people to test on a subject and still get college credit.
“Having a college degree of any type is very important,” said Chief Master Sgt. David Richards, 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs chief enlisted manager. “It shows commitment to self and dedication to your profession and the Air Force. It gives you greater know-ledge and appreciation for the things around you.”
For active duty military members, CLEPing is free the first time they take the test.
“If they don’t pass the CLEP and have to re-take it, they will have to pay $100 for the second test,” said Alyssa Wealty, 86th Force Support Squadron test examiner. “Those who aren’t active duty have to pay for the CLEP.”
Active-duty members can CLEP classes to get credits toward a Community College of the Air Force degree.
“I have seen a few people get 95 percent of their CCAF through taking CLEPs,” said Wealty. “A lot of people get college credits toward their bachelor’s degree as well.”
Getting a degree can open doors for a person, set them up for success and can help them stand out from others in their career field.
“When I first started in the Air Force I took classes in photography because that’s what I loved to do,” said Richards. “Eventually I got two CCAFs and a bachelor’s degree. Having those things under my belt really put the icing on the cake, which provided me the option to get into these special classes I wanted to take.”
Whether military, civilian or dependent, furthering your education and developing as a professional is possible without taking a full course.
“I had a military member bring in his daughter who just finished a high school math class,” said Wealty. “He wanted her to take the CLEP to get the college credit while it was still fresh in her head.”
It is never too early to start taking CLEPs, Wealty said.
“Whatever is offered and available, take it,” said Richards. “Keep going. Don’t just get a CCAF and stop. Keep the motivation and dedication and put it into furthering and bettering yourself and career.”
To schedule a CLEP online, visit www.europe.ctcd.edu/programs/clep and sign up for the subject, date and time.
There are three sessions available per day: 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Only a Department of Defense identification card is needed to take the test. All other supplies will be provided at the test site. Military members do not need to be in uniform to take the test.
