What This Exam Covers
The Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP is equivalent to a first-year undergraduate business information systems course. It covers how information technology is used in organizations from common office software and hardware basics, to systems development, programming concepts, and data management. Don't get too scared, because the test is on practical technology, not on knowing how to code or more advanced computer uses.
Exam at a Glance
| Questions | 100 multiple choice |
| Time | 90 minutes |
| Passing score | 50 (most schools) |
| College credits | 3 semester hours (typical) |
| Exam fee | $97 |
What's on the Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP*?
| Category | Weight | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Office and Technology Applications | 20% | Productivity software, office systems, specialized systems, e-commerce, enterprise-wide systems, business strategies, information processing |
| Internet and World Wide Web | 15% | Online networks, online services, communications protocols, web browsers, web technologies, website development |
| Security | 10–15% | Malware types, privacy concerns, management controls, disaster recovery planning |
| Hardware and Systems Technology | 15% | Computing devices, operating systems, network architectures, computer classifications, wireless technologies |
| Software Development | 10% | Development methodologies, feasibility processes, implementation phases, industry standards |
| Data Management and Programming Concepts | 15% | Data warehousing, file organization, database management systems, programming logic, development methodologies |
| Social and Ethical Implications and Issues | 10–15% | Economic decisions, property rights, employment effects, IT careers, social networking considerations |
Source: For a full breakdown of what is on the exam, see the College Board Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP page.
How hard is the Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP*?
This is one of the easier CLEPs for people with any technology background. IT professionals, business users comfortable with software, and those who work in modern organizations have an advantage. The systems development and programming sections are the least intuitive for non-technical students, but can be learned easily. Starting from scratch with no computer knowledge, plan for 3 to 5 weeks. With a tech background, plan for a week or two, or even just a few days.
How to study for the Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP*
- Work through the InstantCert flashcards, giving extra attention to the hardware and systems development sections, as these tend to have a lot of terminology that you'll need to memorize.
- Use the College Board's free Information Systems practice questions to test your knowledge in exam format.
- Modern States has a free course centered around this CLEP. It goes pretty deep so go through the flashcards first to see what areas you really need practice with.
What score do you need to pass?
You'll need a 50 to pass and get this credit at most schools, but there are a few that require 60 or higher. Information systems credit typically counts toward business or technology course requirements. Confirm with your institution how the credit applies before you test.
Fail and the attempt does not appear on your transcript, but you will need to wait 3 months before re-testing.
Can you pass Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP* with just flashcards?
Yes, especially with prior computer experience. The exam tests vocabulary and conceptual understanding rather than hands-on skills, so the flashcards can teach you the vocabulary for what you already know. Students who work in office or IT environments often find this one of the easier CLEPs they've attempted. Our 94% pass rate is consistent with how learnable this content is.
Which colleges accept the Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP*?
Most colleges and universities accept this exam for credit. They typically award 3 semester hours towards a business or technology requirement. Yale and some top universities do not accept any CLEP credits. Schools often cap the number of CLEP credits you can use, so check with your school or the one you plan to attend before studying.
Use the College Board's CLEP credit-granting policy search tool to look up your school's policy, but it's better to check the school's website directly, as this tool can be outdated.
Happy testing!