What This Exam Covers
The College Algebra CLEP covers what you would learn in an undergraduate college algebra course. It tests for algebraic reasoning and problem-solving across equations, functions, graphs, logarithms, and more. You'll need to actually work through the problems, not just memorize facts like other CLEP exams.
Exam at a Glance
| Questions | 60 multiple choice |
| Time | 90 minutes |
| Passing score | 50 (most schools) |
| College credits | 3 semester hours (typical) |
| Exam fee | $97 |
What's on the College Algebra CLEP*?
| Category | Weight | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Functions | ~30% | Properties and graphs of functions, domain and range, composite and inverse functions, transformations (shifts, stretches, reflections), piecewise functions, conic sections |
| Equations and Inequalities | ~25% | Algebraic, absolute value, exponential, and logarithmic equations; systems of equations; graphical representation; inequalities |
| Algebraic Expressions and Exponents | ~25% | Evaluating, factoring, and expanding expressions; exponent rules; simplifying; converting written statements to algebraic form |
| Logarithms and Additional Topics | ~20% | Logarithm properties, expanding and simplifying, converting between exponential and logarithmic form; imaginary numbers; 2×2 matrices |
Source: For a full breakdown of what is on the exam, see the College Board College Algebra CLEP page.
How hard is the College Algebra CLEP*?
Many people find this a harder CLEP, especially if you don't have a strong background from high school. The algebra CLEP requires problem-solving ability, and you can't get that by vocabulary alone. The functions section is the most demanding, accounting for nearly a third of the exam.
Students who recently took algebra in high school will have a significant advantage, likely passing without extensive studying. Those who haven't studied math in years should plan on a month or two of studying. Our 83% pass rate reflects the genuine difficulty here compared to most other CLEPs. The pass rate has been reported as low as 31% without InstantCert (Military Pass Rates).
How to study for the College Algebra CLEP*
- Work through InstantCert flashcards, actually solving problems rather than guessing. Math requires doing, not just reading. Rework every problem you got wrong until you can solve it independently.
- Use the College Board's free College Algebra practice questions to get a sense of the exam's format.
- Khan Academy's College Algebra course covers every topic on this exam for free. After working through our flashcards, practice individual sections to reinforce weak areas.
TIP: You are NOT allowed to bring your own calculator. An on-screen non-graphing scientific calculator is provided inside the testing software. Practice with the online calculator ETS uses before test day to make function keys for logarithms and exponents feel routine. Knowing how to use the calculator can save you time on the actual exam.
What score do you need to pass?
The standard pass rate is 50, but some schools require 60 or more. College Algebra CLEP typically satisfies a math general education requirement. Confirm with your institution before testing, as STEM programs may require a higher-level math course.
If you pass, the CLEP shows as a pass on your transcript with no letter grade. If you fail, it doesn't show anywhere, and you'll need to wait three months to re-test, forfeiting your fee.
Can you pass College Algebra CLEP* with just flashcards?
Flashcards provide a solid foundation, but math requires supplementing with practice problems. Don't just read solutions; you need to learn how to solve problems. Students who practice actively and use Khan Academy to patch gaps consistently perform better than those who only review cards.
Which colleges accept the College Algebra CLEP*?
Most accredited colleges and universities in the United States accept the College Algebra CLEP for credit, giving 3 semester hours toward a general math requirement. Some schools cap the total CLEP and DSST credit you can apply toward a degree, and highly selective universities like Harvard do not accept CLEP credit at all.
Use the College Board's CLEP credit-granting policy search tool to check your school's policy. The tool is not always fully up to date, so confirm with your registrar before you test. STEM majors should also check whether their program accepts College Algebra CLEP toward the major requirement or only as elective credit.
College Algebra CLEP* vs. taking the class
If you only need the credit and you have the algebra background to support it, the CLEP is dramatically cheaper and faster than a semester-long class. If you plan to continue into precalculus, calculus, or a STEM program, taking the course may be worth the extra time, as structured practice and math labs help build foundations for upper-year classes.
| Exam fee | $97 (military: 1 free attempt) |
| Tuition equivalent | $500 to $1,500+ for a 3-credit course |
| Credits earned | 3 semester hours |
| Prep time | 2 to 10 weeks depending on background |
| GPA impact | None (pass/no record) |
| Calculator | On-screen scientific calculator provided |
Happy testing!