PLA Standardized Tests

The Office for Prior Learning Assessment offers several standardized testing instruments which have been evaluated by the USM faculty and the PLA Advisory Board, as credit options.

• The CLEP® (College Level Examination Program) can be scheduled through Kate Mitchell, Prior Learning Assessment, at 780-4663 in 100 Payson Smith Hall, Portland Campus. DSST® Examinations (Dantes) can be scheduled through the the Testing Associate at 228-8086 in Room 240 Luther Bonney Hall on the Portland Campus, where the tests are also given. PLA also accepts official score transcripts from the Educational Testing Service (ETS/CLEP) and Prometric (for DSST) if you have tested elsewhere. 
• You may schedule exams through PLA for the Excelsior College Examination option, or transfer the official score transcripts for selected subjects into USM through PLA. 
• If you are an incoming or prospective student, you will be interested to know that PLA/USM accepts official score transcripts for Advanced Placement Examinations you may have taken in high school. You must have achieved a 3 or higher on the exams.
• You may have also taken courses and their exams in high school through the International Baccalaureate® organization. If you have taken exams at the Higher Level and have achieved a 5 or better, you may submit your official score transcripts to PLA/USM for evaluation and possible credit.