An Explanation of Education Advancement Exams

The ACT is designed to assess general educational development and measure performance of intellectual tasks required of a college student. The ACT is composed of four academic tests that measure academic development in English, mathematics, reading and science. Funding eligibility for service members varies based on the type of testing location.

The CLEP exam allows you to test out of 33 test titles in subjects where you may have gained knowledge from work, education, military experience, etc. Administration and examination fees are DANTES-funded for eligible service members for the first attempt on all titles only.

Prometric’s DSST test is a form of prior-learning assessment offered via 38 college-subject exams. This nationally recognized credit-by-exam program grants college credit for learning outside of the classroom like on-the-job training, military experience or independent study. DANTES funds fees for the first attempt on all DSST titles only, for eligible service members.

The GED test consists of four content areas designed to measure the education level of adult learners who are not high school graduates. The content areas are math, science, social studies and language arts. DANTES reimburses the test fee one time for eligible service members.

The GMAT is available through some college and university test centers. This computer-adaptive test includes verbal, quantitative and analytical writing questions. The GMAT is reimbursable for eligible service members on the first attempt.

The GRE is a computer-based test available through select college and university test centers. DANTES will pay for one GRE General and one GRE Subject exam for eligible service members.

The PRAXIS I is a Pre-Professional Skills Test, or PPST, with separate subject-area tests in reading, math and writing. Some states require students to pass the PPST before starting a teacher education program, or as a teacher-licensing exam. The PRAXIS II is a timed subject assessment focused on principles of learning and teaching. The exam offers more than 100 test subjects. Some states require you to pass this exam before teaching certain subjects. Both PRAXIS exams are reimbursable one time for eligible service members.

The SAT is an entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The SAT assesses critical thinking skills needed for success in college and future career success. The test is based on knowledge developed through coursework in reading, writing, language and math. Funding eligibility for service members varies based on the type of testing location.