American Government CLEP exam guide

The American Government exam is one of the 34 CLEP exams offered by the College Board. How the United States government works, from the Constitution to elections and public policy.

What the exam covers

• Constitutional foundations, including federalism and the separation of powers
• The presidency, Congress, and the courts
• Political parties, interest groups, and elections
• Civil liberties and civil rights
• Public policy and how it is made

Credit and score

Typically 3 semester hours. ACE recommended score: 50.

The exam fee is $97 plus the test center's own fee, or $30 for remote proctoring. Register through the College Board.

How to study

• Read the Constitution and the Bill of Rights closely, then test yourself on what each branch can and cannot do
• Follow one current policy debate and trace it through Congress, the president, and the courts
• Start from the official College Board exam description and check off each topic above as you review it.

Florida note

Florida's public colleges and universities are required to award the minimum recommended CLEP credit, up to 45 total credit-by-exam credits, under Florida Statute 1007.27. Private and out-of-state schools set their own policy.

Credit depends on the college's own policy. Confirm with the college before counting on it.

College Board CLEP exam list · All 34 CLEP guides

Planning college applications too? The Florida College Application Planner is free to use, with no signup: explore 82 Florida colleges, keep your school list and deadline calendar, plan your testing, and read the free CLEP information tab.

This page is not affiliated with the College Board. CLEP exam policies, credit awards, and fees change, so confirm every detail on the College Board page and with your college before you register.