- DTP Success Team
Can you Take DSST Exams at Home (Remotely)? Yes, you Can! Learn How.
Updated: Nov 7
Remotely proctored DSST exams are now available to everyone!
If you're looking for an easy and convenient way to take your DSST exams, then you're in luck!
Online proctored exams are a great way to take your DSST exam from the comfort and safety of your home.
With ProProctor, you can take any DSST exam you need from anywhere in the world.
Before you start, you'll need to ensure your computer meets the requirements for remote proctoring.
Your computer must have the following:
Camera
Microphone
Internet connection
The ability to install a lightweight application
If you are taking a remote exam for the first time, please read this article entirely and follow the instructions below.
Table of Contents
Before Scheduling Your Exam: Test Your Computer Compatibility
Civilian and Self-Funded Military Test Takers: Follow Steps One Through Thirteen
DANTES-Eligible Military Members: Unlock Your Free DSST Exams | Steps One Through Eleven
DANTES-Eligible Military Members: Preparing for a Remotely Proctored Appointment
Test Takers: Download and Review the "ProProctor User Guide" and the "Exam Day Checklist."
Conclusion: Achieving Success with DSST Exams - Your Path to Convenience and Opportunity
Before Scheduling Your Exam:
Test Your Computer Compatibility
Before you go ahead and schedule your exam, it's crucial to ensure your computer is fully compatible with the ProProctor application.
To do this, use the computer you intend to use for the exam and perform a quick and easy system check. This will ensure that the ProProctor application runs smoothly when it's time for your test.
To run the free system check, click on the following link: FREE SYSTEM CHECK
Step One: Click Check Now
Step Two: Microphone Compatibility
A. Allow Microphone Access: Grant the application access to your microphone.
B. Record Your Voice: Click "Record" to start recording your voice audio, then click "Stop" when you're done.
C. Review Your Audio: Click "Playback" to review your recorded audio. The system will now allow you to continue.
D. Proceed to Next Step: Click "Proceed To Next Step" to move forward.
Step Three: Webcam Compatibility
Allow Webcam Access (if needed): If prompted, grant the application access to your webcam.
A. Wait for Processing: Wait for the "In Progress" circle to complete its process.
B. Proceed: After 30-60 seconds, click "Proceed To Next Step" to continue.
Step Four: System Check Complete
Confirmation of Compatibility: Once your system meets all requirements, you're ready to proceed!
Scheduling Your Remote Exam: After confirming your computer's compatibility, follow the steps below to schedule your remote exam.
How to Schedule Your DSST Exam Remotely
Now that your computer is compatible, let's explore the simple steps to schedule your DSST exam remotely.
The process is accessible and convenient, regardless of your technical background.
Two Separate Links for Scheduling
There are two separate website links for scheduling your exams:
For Civilians and Self-Funded Military Members: This category includes individuals who are not eligible for free exams.
For Eligible Active-Duty Military Members: You might wonder who qualifies as an eligible military member. This category includes any active-duty member attempting a DSST subject for the first time. Your first exam is entirely free of charge. You can take all 36 DSST exams for free once.
Transition to Self-Funded Status
However, if you don't succeed on your first attempt for a particular exam, you will transition into the category of a non-eligible or self-funded military test taker.
This means there will be an associated fee for any additional attempts for that exam.
Example:
For example, your first attempt at "Introduction to World Religions" is free.
If you fail, you'll need to wait 30 days and re-register as a "self-funded" military test taker for your second attempt and pay the exam fee.
You can still take any of the other 35 DSST exams for free, but only on your first try.
So, study hard and increase the odds of passing on your first attempt!
Civilian and Self-Funded Military Test Takers:
Follow Steps One Through Thirteen
If you are a civilian (college student, high school student, homeschooler, working adult, etc.) or a self-funded military test taker, follow these straightforward steps to schedule your DSST exam remotely.
Simply visit this link to get started: Civilian DSST Exam Remote Scheduling.
Step One: Visit Prometric's Website and click "Schedule."
Initiating the Scheduling Process
A. Verify Exam Type: Ensure that you schedule under "REMOTELY PROCTORED EXAM."
B. Schedule Your Exam: Click the "Schedule" button to begin the exam scheduling process.
Step Two: Confirm Civilian Status
Confirmation
A: Ensure that you see the following text on the page: "Civilian (college student), non-eligible military, and self-funded military test takers."
B. Confirm Program Name: Check that the "Program Name" on the page reads "College Student."
C. Proceed: Please continue to the next section.
Step Three: Consent Form
Consent and Continue
A. Read and Consent: Carefully read the provided information and consent to it as required.
B. Proceed: Once you have confirmed your consent, please proceed to the next section.
Step Four: Pre-approved Testing Accommodations
Select Accommodations
A. Make Your Selection: Choose "Yes" if you have prearranged special accommodations, or select "No" if you haven't.
Proceed: After making your selection, you will be prompted to the next section.
Step Five: Select Your DSST Exam
Choose Your DSST Exam
A. Select Your Exam: Choose your desired DSST exam from the list.
B. Proceed: Please click the right arrow and continue.
Step Six: Testing Location Time Zone
Verify Time Zone
A. Verify Time Zone: Confirm that your time zone is correctly set.
B: Test Center Location: Ensure that your "Test Center Location" reads "Remotely Proctored."
C. Proceed: Please click the right arrow and continue.
Step Seven: Select Your Start Date
Select Start Date
A. Choose Your Preferred Date: Select your desired test date from the available options.
B. View Additional Times: If needed, click "More Times" to see additional time slots.
Step Eight: Reserve your Test Time
Reservations
A. Select Preferred Time: Pick your preferred test time from the available options.
B. Reserve Your Time: After selecting your preferred test time, click "Reserve Test Time" to confirm, and then continue to the next section.
Step Nine: Consent and Complete Appointment
Consent and Complete Appointment
A. Appointment Duration: Note that you will have 15 minutes to complete your appointment.
B. Consent to Data: Confirm your consent to data usage as required.
C. Proceed: Please click the right arrow and continue.
Step Ten: Update your profile information
Profile Information
A. Update Profile: Enter your profile information.
Step Eleven: Appointment Verification
Verification
A. Verify Personal Details: Double-check and confirm your personal details.
B. Confirm Exam Date and Time: Verify your exam title, date, and time to ensure accuracy.
C. Verify Exam Title and Fee: Confirm your exam title and the associated exam fee.
D. Proceed: Please click the right arrow and continue.
Step Twelve: Payment
Payment
A. Enter Payment Information: Provide your payment details as required.
B. Complete Appointment: Once your payment information is entered, click "Complete Appointment" to finalize your scheduling process.
Step Thirteen: Confirmation Email
Confirmation Number
Confirmation Email: Following a successful enrollment, you will receive a confirmation email containing your login information.
Make sure to keep this information readily available for your upcoming exam.
Step Fourteen: Follow-Up with Prometric
After Your Exam: Follow-Up with Prometric
If you want your school to receive your scores, then you must follow up with Prometric.
Currently, Prometric does not have the option to input your school code at the time of registration.
Be sure to contact Prometric within two days after taking your exam and provide them with your four-digit school code (institutional score recipient code).
Otherwise, they will charge you a $30 transcript fee to send your results to your institution.
You can contact Prometric at:
Toll Free: 1-877-471-9860
Email: getcollegecredit@prometric.com
If you need assistance with your institutional score recipient code, please feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Civilian and Self-Funded Military:
Rescheduling Your Exam
In the event you need to reschedule your exam, click here and follow the instructions below.
Remember to keep your exam confirmation number in a secure place, as you will need it for rescheduling or canceling your exam.
Step One: Visit Prometric's Website
Initiate Rescheduling Process
A. Reschedule: Click "Reschedule" to begin the rescheduling process.
Step Two: Reschedule Your DSST Exam
Reschedule Your DSST Exam
A. Enter Confirmation Number: Locate your confirmation number in your registration email confirmation and enter it.
B. Enter Last Name: Enter the first four characters of your last name.
C. Submit: Click "Submit" and continue to follow the remaining prompts to reschedule your DSST exam.
Civilians: Reporting Your DSST Test Scores
For civilians taking DSST exams, it's crucial to understand the process of reporting your test scores to your college or university.
During registration (with your remote proctor), you'll need to provide your Institutional Score Report Recipient Code to ensure that your educational institution receives your score reports (passing score).
This code is essential for the accurate and timely reporting of your DSST test scores to your college or university.
Here are the key steps to keep in mind:
Academic Counselor: Consult with your counselor for your Institutional Score Report Recipient Code.
Institutional Score Report Recipient Code: Before taking your exam, make sure you have your Institutional Score Report Recipient Code on hand.
By having your Institutional Score Report Recipient Code ready and correctly entering it during the registration process, you can facilitate the smooth transfer of your DSST test scores to your educational institution.
PRO TIP
Currently, Prometric does not have the option to input your school code at the time of registration.
Be sure to contact Prometric within two days after taking your exam and provide them with your four-digit school code (institutional score recipient code).
Otherwise, they will charge you a $30 transcript fee to send your results to your institution.
You can contact Prometric at:
Toll Free: 1-877-471-9860
Email: getcollegecredit@prometric.com
If you need assistance with your institutional score recipient code, please feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
DANTES-Eligible Military Members: Unlock Your Free DSST Exams | Follow Steps One Through Eleven
Are You an Active-Duty Military Member Preparing for Your First DSST Exam?
Congratulations! You belong to the group of DANTES-eligible military members, and we have fantastic news for you – your first DSST exam is absolutely free.
You are eligible to take any or all of the DSST exams you choose, and the best part is, that you won't be charged a cent for your first attempt.
Active-duty military members who are taking their first DSST subject exam for free can follow the same registration steps as civilians.
However, please note that additional information is required, and you must complete your registration through a separate link.
For more details, please continue reading below.
To complete your registration, use this link: DANTES-Eligible Military Registration.
Step One: Visit Prometric's Website and click "Schedule."
Initiating the Scheduling Process
A. Verify Page: Ensure that you schedule under "REMOTELY PROCTORED EXAM. DANTES ELIGIBLE MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS ONLY."
B. Start Scheduling: Click the "Schedule" button to begin the scheduling process.
Step Two: Preparing for a Test Center Appointment
Initial Verification
A. Check Test Sponsor: Before proceeding, make sure your test sponsor is listed as "DSST."
B. Verify Program Name: Confirm that your program name is "DANTES."
C. Review Preparation Information: Take a moment to read through the section titled "Preparing for a Test Center Appointment."
D. Proceed: Once you have completed the verifications and read the information, click "Continue."
Step Three: Consent Form
Consent and Continue
A. Read and Provide Consent: Carefully read the provided information and provide your consent as required.
B. Proceed: After confirming your consent, please continue to the next section.
Step Four: Pre-approved Testing Accommodations
Select Accommodations
A. Make Your Selection: Choose your preferred option:
Select "Yes" if you have prearranged special accommodations.
Select "No" if you haven't.
Proceed: After making your selection, you will be prompted to the next section.
Step Five: DSST Exam Selection
Exam Selection
A. Select Your Exam: Choose your desired DSST exam.
B. Proceed: After making your selection, please continue to the next section.
Step Six: Testing Location Time Zone
Location Time Zone
A. Confirm Time Zone: Ensure that your time zone is correct.
B. Confirm Test Center Location: Make sure that your "Test Center Location" reads "Remotely Proctored."
C. Proceed: After making your selection, please continue to the next section.
Step Seven: Select Your Start Date
Start Date
A. Choose Test Date: Pick the date you prefer for your test.
B. View Time Slots: Click to view the available time slots for your selected test date.
Step Eight: Reserve your Preferred Date and Time
Reservations
A. Select Preferred Time: Choose the time slot that best suits your schedule.
B. Reserve Your Time: After selecting your preferred test time, click "Reserve Test Time" to reserve it, and then proceed to the next section.
Step Nine: Consent
Consent
A. Provide Consent: Please provide your consent for data usage as required.
B. Proceed: Please continue to the next section.
Step Ten: Update your Profile Information
Provide Your Personal Details
A. Profile: Provide your personal details.
B. Institutional Score Report Code: Enter your Institutional Score Report Recipient Code (if available).
* As you scroll down, you will find a list of Military Branch Codes available for your reference.
Step Eleven: Appointment Verification
A. Verify Personal Details: Double-check and confirm your personal details before proceeding.
B. Confirm Exam Details: Ensure that the following exam details are correct:
Exam Title
Exam Time
Exam Date
C. Review Exam Title: Please review and verify the exam title.
D. Check Exam Fee: As this is your first attempt, your exam fee should be $00.00. Ensure that it reflects this amount.
E. Complete Appointment: Once you've verified all the details above, click the "Complete Appointment" button to finalize your appointment.
Congratulations, You're All Set!
You've successfully scheduled your remote exam.
Please check your email for your confirmation number.
Make sure to keep it in a safe place for easy reference later.
Military Members: Reporting Your DSST Test Scores
For military members looking to report their DSST test scores to their military institutions for college credit, understanding the Institutional Score Report Recipient Code is crucial.
In addition, we'll provide guidance on how to send your scores to a college or university (see below).
Military DSST Institutional Branch Codes
Institutional Score Report Recipient Codes
These codes are specific to different military branches, enabling the efficient transfer of test score information.
Below are the Institutional Score Report Recipient Codes for various military branches:
Community College of the Air Force (CCAF): 7992
Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (AARTS) - Now Joint Services Transcript (JST): 7965
Sailor/Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (SMARTS) - Now Joint Services Transcript (JST): 7964
Coast Guard (CGI) - Now Joint Services Transcript (JST): 7968
These codes will help you report your DSST test scores accurately to your respective military institutions for college credit.
Sending DSST Transcripts to Colleges or Universities
When you plan to send your DSST transcripts to a college or university, it's crucial to be aware of the four-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code required by your specific institution.
Contact Your Institution: Reach out to your college or university to obtain the correct four-digit Institutional Score Report Recipient Code. This code is unique to each institution and ensures that your DSST test scores are sent to the right place.
Verification with Counselor: Confirm the code requirements with your institution's counselor or relevant authority. Ensure that you have the accurate information needed for a seamless process.
Accurate and timely transcript submission is essential for receiving the credit or recognition you've earned through your DSST exams.
By following these steps and being proactive in verifying the necessary details, you can ensure a successful transmission of your DSST transcripts to the college or university of your choice.
DANTES-Eligible Military Members:
Rescheduling Your Exam
In case you need to reschedule your exam, click here and follow the instructions below.
Remember to keep your exam confirmation number in a secure place because you'll need it to either reschedule or cancel your exam later on.
Step One: Visit Prometric's Website
Initiate The Rescheduling Process
A. Verify Page: Ensure that your page clearly indicates "REMOTELY PROCTORED EXAM" and "DANTES ELIGIBLE MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS ONLY."
B. Reschedule: Initiate the rescheduling process by clicking the "Reschedule" button.
Step Two: Reschedule Your DSST Exam
Reschedule Your Exam
A. Confirmation Number: Enter the confirmation number you received in your registration email confirmation.
B. Last Name: Enter the first four characters of your last name.
C. Submit and Continue: Click "Submit," and continue to follow the subsequent prompts to complete the rescheduling of your DSST exam.
DANTES-Eligible Military Members:
Preparing for a Remotely Proctored Appointment
For Military Service Members: Check-In and Exam Preparation
Check-In Requirements: Military service members must have their Common Access Card (CAC) and a valid government-issued ID ready for check-in.
Exam Environment: Prepare your testing environment by removing personal items and ensure a distraction-free space.
Early Launch: Launch your remote exam 30 minutes before your scheduled time to ensure a smooth start.
Test Takers: Download and Review the "ProProctor User Guide" and the "Exam Day Checklist."
Review: ProProcor User Guide
Before taking your DSST exam, familiarize yourself with the ProProctor User Guide, which provides essential information about the exam process.
Exam Day Checklist: Exam Day 101 Guide
Comprehensive Preparation: Review the ProProctor User Guide and Exam Day Checklist
To ensure you're well-prepared and confident on exam day, make sure to review both the ProProctor User Guide and the Exam Day Checklist.
These resources will provide you with the knowledge and confidence needed for a successful DSST exam experience.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Exam
For a more comprehensive understanding of what to expect on the day of your DSST exam, we recommend watching the "What to Expect on Test Day" video.
You can view the video below.
This video will provide valuable insights and help you feel more prepared for your upcoming exam.
Preparing for Your Remotely Proctored Appointment
Taking a remotely proctored exam, such as the DSST exam with ProProctor, requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Here are some important tips to keep in mind before your appointment:
1. Valid Government-Issued Photo Identification
You must present a current, valid, government-issued picture identification such as a driver's license or passport.
Ensure that your ID has not expired and that the name on your identification card matches the name you used to register for the exam.
This is a crucial step in verifying your identity during the check-in process.
2. Prepare Your Testing Environment
Create a distraction-free and compliant testing environment.
Remove all personal items from the testing area except for essential components:
Ensure you have a surface to place your computer, camera, and microphone.
Have a comfortable chair for the duration of the exam.
Keep only the necessary equipment and materials within arm's reach.
Clear your workspace of any materials related to the exam content that could be considered unauthorized aids.
3. Launch Your Exam Early
To ensure a stress-free start to your remotely proctored exam, plan to launch the exam at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
This extra time allows for:
Verification of your identity and government-issued ID.
Technical checks to ensure your camera, microphone, and computer are functioning correctly.
Any unexpected issues can be addressed without rushing.
Familiarizing yourself with the exam platform and interface.
4. Know The Environmental Requirements
Testing Environment: The examination must take place indoors within a room with walls. The room should be well-lit and free from any background noise or disturbances.
Privacy: During the exam, no third parties are allowed to be present in the room or enter it. If this rule is violated, the exam will be terminated, and your results may be invalidated.
Workspace Cleanliness: Your workstation and the surrounding area must be devoid of items such as pens, paper, electronic devices, or anything that could potentially provide an unfair advantage during the exam. This includes any content posted on the walls or within your immediate area.
Tissue Allowance: You are allowed to have two tissues at your workstation, but the proctor must inspect these before the exam begins.
Window and Glass Door Covering: If you are taking the exam from a company office, any windows and glass doors must be covered or have frosted glass to eliminate distractions and prevent anyone from viewing the exam from outside. If you are testing from a personal space, such as a home office or hotel room, you should also cover windows and glass doors to minimize distractions.
5. Understand The Check-In Procedures and Rules
Valid Identification: To take the exam, you must present an original, unexpired government-issued photo ID with your signature. The validity and types of acceptable IDs are determined by your test sponsor. Please refer to your exam confirmation email for specific ID requirements.
Workspace Inspection: You will be required to showcase your workstation and the area around it to the proctor.
Pocket and Sleeve Checks: Before each entry into the online test, you must empty and turn out all pockets and roll up your shirt sleeves above your wrists. If you wear eyeglasses, you will be asked to remove them for a visual inspection to ensure they do not contain any recording devices. Additionally, large jewelry items must be taken off.
Hair Check: If you have long hair that covers your ears, you will be requested to pull your hair back. This measure ensures that nothing is attached to your ear, such as a Bluetooth earpiece, which could provide an unfair advantage.
Camera View: It is strictly prohibited to leave the camera view during the exam unless otherwise specified by the client sponsor. This rule is in place to maintain the integrity and fairness of the examination process.
By following these essential preparation tips, you'll be better equipped to confidently take your DSST exam remotely and minimize potential disruptions during the testing process.
Remember that thorough preparation contributes to a successful exam experience, so take the time to ensure everything is in order before your scheduled appointment.
Conclusion: Achieving Success with DSST Exams - Your Path to Convenience and Opportunity
In this comprehensive guide, we've explored the world of DSST exams, providing valuable insights and step-by-step instructions to help you on your journey to academic success and career advancement.
Whether you're a civilian seeking college credit or a military member pursuing professional development, DSST exams offer a convenient and accessible way to achieve your goals.
We began by highlighting the convenience of remotely proctored DSST exams available to civilian and military students worldwide.
With the ProProctor platform, you can take your exams from the comfort and safety of your home, eliminating the need for travel and enhancing accessibility.
To ensure a seamless testing experience, we emphasized the importance of checking your computer's compatibility for remote proctoring.
By following a straightforward system check, you can confirm that your computer meets the requirements, including a camera, microphone, internet connection, and the ability to install a lightweight application.
Our guide also delved into the detailed process of scheduling your DSST exam remotely.
We provided clear instructions for both civilians and eligible military members, including how to determine your eligibility and benefit from the first free attempt.
For civilians, we outlined a comprehensive thirteen-step process, from selecting your exam to making the payment and receiving a confirmation email.
Clear explanations and visual aids ensure you can confidently navigate the scheduling process.
Military members learned about the specific Institutional Score Report Recipient Codes used to report their test scores to their military institutions for college credit.
We provided codes for various branches, ensuring a smooth transfer of test score information.
We also addressed the importance of reporting your DSST test scores to colleges or universities, emphasizing the need to verify the correct Institutional Score Report Recipient Code with your institution's counselor.
DANTES-eligible military members received guidance on unlocking their free DSST exams, enabling them to take advantage of this valuable opportunity for professional development.
To prepare for your remotely proctored appointment, we offered essential tips, including the importance of valid government-issued identification, creating a distraction-free testing environment, launching your exam early, understanding environmental requirements, and adhering to check-in procedures and testing rules.
Lastly, we encouraged all test takers to download and review the ProProctor User Guide and the Exam Day Checklist to ensure thorough preparation and confidence on exam day.
As you embark on your DSST exam journey, remember that preparation, diligence, and attention to detail are your allies in achieving success.
With the knowledge and guidance provided in this guide, you're well-equipped to take your DSST exam confidently and make the most of this flexible and accessible testing option.
We wish you the best of luck as you strive for excellence and reach your educational and professional goals through DSST exams.
Student Resources
PrometricProUserGuide
.pdf
Download PDF • 11.67MB
DSST Remote Proctor - Exam Day Checklist
.pdf
Download PDF • 760KB