DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST)

The DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST) is a form of prior learning assessment that allows for the awarding of college credit for knowledge acquired outside of a traditional classroom. JCC is a national test center for DSST exams.  Any student may register for and take at DSST exam at JCC.

Advance registration is required.

1. Schedule your appointment using the Schedule an Appointment button below.
2. Pay the administrative fee of $15 (payable to Johnston Community College).  The administrative fee may be paid the day of the exam at the Cashier's Office, which is just down the hall from the Testing Center. Please bring your receipt with you for check-in at the Test Center.
3. When you make your appointment via the online scheduler, you will receive a confirmation email.
4. On the day of testing, an $80 DSST examination fee is required. The fee will be paid via credit/debit card online during registration on the day of your exam, just before your exam is administered.  This fee is payable to Prometric and is only payable by credit/debit card.

All test takers must present a current and valid picture identification such as a driver's license, passport, or student identification card. Expired IDs are not acceptable. Students may not test without appropriate identification. DSST exams have a two-hour time limit to complete.

Students will receive an unofficial score report immediately after test completion.  Your official score report will be mailed in 2-4 weeks to the college or university selected to receive your exam score.

All questions regarding DSST testing may be emailed to jcctesting@johnstoncc.edu.

Receiving Credit for a DSST exam at Johnston Community College

DSST credit must be approved by the college registrar prior to taking the test. The appropriate Department Director will determine the amount of credit awarded within a specific program. Historically, JCC has not awarded credit for DSST exams.

For questions and to find out more information about these exams, please visit the DSST website.

DSST regulations state that if a student does not successfully pass an exam, they must wait 90 days to retake the same exam.

 DSST for Military Personnel

Certain members of the U.S. Armed Services, veterans, their spouses, and civilian employees may be eligible for DANTES funding to take a DSST exam.  Proper military ID is required on the day of testing.  All DANTES eligible service members will still be required to pay JCC's administrative fee of $15.