Credential type: course assessment · verified on the issuer's site September 20, 2026 issuer page
The Principles of Advanced English Composition exam is certified by DSST to rigorously evaluate knowledge across five diverse and standard domains, including Rhetoric, Writing Process, Research and Documentation, Style, and Grammar and Usage. Candidates encounter multiple-choice questions on this computer-based test designed to accurately measure college-level proficiency.
Students seeking college credit for advanced English composition can take this test. It suits individuals with strong writing skills, research abilities, and a firm grasp of grammar and usage rules.
Review academic writing resources, style guides for citation formats like MLA and APA, and strict grammar rules thoroughly before taking the test. Candidates should carefully practice drafting, organizing documents, and refining arguments to ensure they are fully prepared for every domain covered on the test.
This domain covers rhetoric, focusing heavily on rhetorical situations, complex arguments, and persuasive techniques used effectively in academic and professional writing contexts across various media platforms during your studies.
This domain addresses the writing process, including drafting, organizing documents, ensuring clarity, and actively revising text for various assignments to meet high academic standards established by college institutions everywhere.
This domain covers research and documentation, focusing on finding credible sources and formatting citations according to specific guidelines such as modern academic formatting standards used in higher education environments today.
This domain involves style, emphasizing sentence-level work, conciseness, tone, and appropriate word choice in written documents to maximize overall clarity and impact for readers across different reading levels and academic disciplines.
This domain evaluates grammar and usage, testing correct rules for parts of speech, punctuation, agreement, and sentence structure to guarantee error-free professional writing throughout your academic career and future professional endeavors.
Arrive at the testing center completely prepared for a 120-minute computer-based exam consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions while managing your time carefully across all questions.
The exam consists of a total of 100 multiple-choice questions administered via a computer-based format, giving candidates ample opportunity to demonstrate their composition knowledge during the test.
The official passing score required for this certification exam is set at 400 points, ensuring that successful candidates display adequate mastery of advanced writing principles and composition rules.
The exam has a strict duration of 120 minutes, requiring test-takers to pace themselves appropriately while answering all questions within the designated testing window provided at the center.
The exam price is $85 for civilian test-takers, while eligible military candidates can take the test for free via DANTES. Check with DSST for more details.
Verified 2026-09-14
This page was built by carefully synthesizing official DSST exam guides, third-party preparation resources, and standard writing guidelines to provide accurate test details.