With 44 questions, the CLEP Calculus exam assesses students’ ability to solve both routine and nonroutine problems using calculus techniques, concepts, and applications. Specific topics covered on the test include:

• Limits concerning continuity, statement of properties, and limit calculations including infinity—10%

• Differential Calculus including derivatives—50%

• Integral Calculus covering antiderivatives and the definite integral—40%

The CLEP exam aims to assess knowledge from these specific topics, ranging from basic to complex ideas. A student’s exam success is dependent upon an understanding of theoretical principles as well as problem-solving skills. Mastery of these concepts will help to ensure success on CLEP Calculus Exam day.

CLEP exams provide a valuable opportunity to a wide variety of people seeking to save money while earning college credit. Tests assess students’ knowledge of various academic subjects. Learners that benefit from CLEP include:

• Home-schoolers—allowing the student the ability to demonstrate their knowledge and mastery of a specific subject while gaining college credit

• Military personnel—offering the ability to advance in education and achieve career goals while managing a busy schedule

• Adult learners—allowing those who plan to return to school after a break or pursue education for the first time the ability to save money and time

• College students—utilizing CLEP can advance their degree completion

• High school students—giving students a head start on their college education by earning credits towards college on their transcript.

In summation, anyone seeking college credit can take CLEP exams.

The Calculus CLEP test uses a scaled score, based on multiple-choice questions and essay scores, which range from 20 to 80. The student then earns an A, B, C, or D based on this score. Letter grade conversions are typically as follows:

• A—High level of understanding: 50 to 80

• B—Good level of understanding: 40 to 49

• C—Satisfactory level of understanding: 30 to 39

• D—Minimal level of understanding: 20 to 29

The letter grade is applied to your college course equivalent. To perform well and demonstrate a high level of understanding, it is recommended that students find resources to support them in their test preparation. 

The Calculus CLEP exam is regarded as one of the most difficult CLEP exams, especially for those who don’t have a strong background in math. The complexity of topics, the mathematical rigor, and the diverse question formats make this exam challenging to score highly on. Rather than memorizing concepts, the Calculus CLEP exam requires that one demonstrates their ability to apply concepts and to communicate an understanding of the topics. With that being said, setting aside plenty of time to prepare for the CLEP Calculus exam gives you an advantage in achieving the best possible score. Set realistic study goals and visualize your success along the way.

Yes, you can take practice tests online! Doing so will simulate test environments, inform your study plan, and help you track your progress. Three full-length CLEP Calculus practice tests with solutions are available to Peterson's subscribers. Taking these tests and reviewing answers will provide an idea of achieving the best score on the CLEP Calculus Exam while increasing your test-taking skills, like time management and strategy. You can also access our CLEP Calculus Study Guide—providing a review of concepts presented on the exam, along with further tips on preparing for the exam. Make the most out of your exam preparation through Peterson’s.

There are 44 multiple-choice questions on the CLEP Calculus exam. The test is made up of two sections:

• The first section is comprised of 27 questions in which you are not allowed to use a calculator. The length of this section is approximately 50 minutes long.

• The second section of the test includes 17 questions where you can use an online graphing calculator. This section of the test is approximately 40 minutes long. The graphing calculator is available via the test software. To ensure you are making the best use of time during the test, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the calculator. This will help ensure that you have time to focus on the questions and not just operating the calculator.