Credential type: admission or placement test · verified on the issuer's site September 20, 2026 issuer page
The DSST Principles of Public Speaking examination evaluates fundamental knowledge and practical competencies in public communication. Administered and certified by DSST, this detailed 120-minute multiple-choice assessment covers eight distinct domains, including audience analysis, speech structure, delivery methods, and research strategies, enabling motivated learners to demonstrate college-level communication competence and earn valuable academic credit.
Students seeking college credit for public speaking, military personnel utilizing DANTES benefits, and adult learners wishing to validate communication competence for academic progression or professional development should take this examination.
Carefully review core concepts across all eight examination domains by studying public speaking textbooks, reviewing official guidelines, and utilizing detailed flashcards. Practice outlining informative and persuasive speeches, analyzing diverse target audiences, and refining your delivery techniques to meet testing standards and achieve a passing score of 400 points on the 100-question assessment.
This domain focuses on ethical principles, important social responsibilities, and theoretical foundations that guide effective and responsible public speaking practices across various modern professional, civic, and academic communication environments today.
This domain centers on analyzing target audiences, adapting message content successfully to listener needs, and evaluating the overall communication effects on diverse groups of listeners during public presentations.
This domain examines selecting appropriate speech topics and determining clear, focused purposes for public presentations designed to inform, persuade, or entertain specific target audiences in varied professional settings.
This domain covers the structural organization of speeches, including compelling introductions, well-developed main body paragraphs, logical transitions, and memorable conclusions that enhance message clarity, outline coherence, and overall audience comprehension during presentations.
This domain deals with selecting, developing, and supporting central ideas with credible evidence, relevant visual aids, and diverse supporting materials to reinforce main arguments during public speaking engagements.
This domain addresses research techniques, gathering highly credible information from reliable sources, and citing those sources properly within speech preparation to maintain academic integrity and professional presentation standards.
This domain examines precise language choice, appropriate stylistic devices, linguistic clarity, and tone suitable for various speaking occasions to ensure messages resonate effectively with intended listeners across different contexts.
This domain focuses on practical delivery techniques, including vocal variety, physical movement, nonverbal communication cues, and effective strategies for reducing speech anxiety during live public presentations given by test takers.
Arrive at the testing center early to complete check-in procedures for your computer-based examination. Manage your testing time carefully across all 100 questions during the 120 minutes allowed.
The examination consists of a total of exactly 100 multiple-choice questions that are delivered entirely via a computer-based testing platform at authorized test centers for all participating candidates.
To successfully pass this certification examination and earn college credit, test takers must achieve a minimum scaled score of 400 points across the multiple-choice questions evaluated on test day.
All candidates are given a total duration of 120 minutes to complete the multiple-choice assessment and answer all questions carefully before their scheduled testing session concludes.
The standard exam price is $85 for regular civilian candidates, while eligible military personnel can take the assessment completely free of charge through DANTES funding support.
Verified 2026-09-14
This page synthesizes official DSST documentation and third-party exam guides to provide clear, structured information on test domains, logistics, and preparation strategies.