New here, looking for guidance/encouragement

[DocChao]

Hey ladies and gentlemen,

I'm currently active duty in the Navy and I separate Dec of next year. I know I should have started sooner but I want to utilize my last year to CLEP as many credits as I can while its free.

Thing is, I am still limited on time and I can't afford to be studying such broad materials and go in to fail a CLEP, that would waist valuable time I don't have.

I have no post K-12 education other than what the Navy has given me, I've actually been to 2 "A schools" and multiple other courses that I have on my transcript.

With said knowledge base, How hard would it be for me to jump into CLEPs with only Instantcert as study material?

And input, especially from other servicemembers, would be appreciated.

[ImustStudy]

Hey ladies and gentlemen,

I'm currently active duty in the Navy and I separate Dec of next year. I know I should have started sooner but I want to utilize my last year to CLEP as many credits as I can while its free.

Thing is, I am still limited on time and I can't afford to be studying such broad materials and go in to fail a CLEP, that would waist valuable time I don't have.

I have no post K-12 education other than what the Navy has given me, I've actually been to 2 "A schools" and multiple other courses that I have on my transcript.

With said knowledge base, How hard would it be for me to jump into CLEPs with only Instantcert as study material?

And input, especially from other servicemembers, would be appreciated.

DocChao,

While I'm not a service member (both my brothers are/have served), I can say that it is quite possible to get your cleps and get your degree while living a very busy life as well.

I work full-time, then work a second part time job, then serve as a local elected official in my community, volunteer in church and also have a wife and 3 kids. That would compare to active duty combat by some standards.

Anyway, it is quite doable if you plan properly. Most here would recommend that you schedule your CLEP and lower level DANTES/DSST exams 2-3 weeks apart although some exams might require less or more time. For the upper level DANTES/DSST exams I would recommend 3-4 weeks for the tough ones.

InstantCert has been enough for all the CLEPS I have taken. Check out the forums here and use the search feature for the topic you are looking to take. Do also take advantage of the FEMA credits as they will give you quick lower level elective credit if you need it. You might find Excelsior college to be more flexible with awarding credit than the military colleges, CCAF, etc. etc. Check them out.

You will do great. Thanks for your service to our country.

[BMWGuinness]

CLEP for Veterans

[barcotta]

I would recommend (as would many others) that you start with CLEP Sociology and use InstantCert to prepare. That's the equivalent of sticking your big toe in the water to see how you like it. Read the posts for each exam on this site after that and start knocking them down one (or two or three) at a time. I would first spend a good 6-8 hours poking around on these forums. It'll save you weeks, if not months, in the long run. Good luck!