DSST Human Resource Management
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ExploreAbout this exam
The DSST Human Resource Management exam is a credit-by-examination option for students who already understand the fundamentals of managing people at work. It is aimed at candidates who want college credit for a lower-level human resource management course without sitting the course, and it is accepted by many institutions that recognize the DSST program. The exam is multiple choice and covers an overview of the HR field; HR planning, staffing, training and development; performance appraisals; compensation issues; safety and security issues; employment law; and labor relations. It is offered at authorized testing centers, mostly on college campuses, in internet-based or paper-based form. To prepare, work through a current introductory HR management textbook or college course outline, then practice with multiple-choice questions that make you distinguish between similar concepts, such as different appraisal methods, compensation types, and employment laws. Check with your school before registering to confirm that it accepts this DSST exam for the credit you need, and confirm the current fee and testing-center policies with the DSST program or your test center.
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About DSST Human Resource Management preparation
What is the format of the DSST Human Resource Management exam?
It is a multiple-choice exam offered in internet-based or paper-based formats. The official DSST program states that test takers are given two hours to take the 100-question exam. Exams must be taken at authorized testing centers, mostly on college campuses.
How much does it cost to take the exam?
The test fee is $100 per exam. This fee does not include any administrative costs the testing site may require, so check with your chosen test center for its additional charges before you schedule.
What score do I need to pass?
The minimum score is 400. The exam is scored on the DSST scale, and your school may have its own requirements for awarding credit. Confirm with your advisor that a passing score on this exam will count toward your program.
Can I retake the exam if I do not pass?
Yes. All test takers are eligible to retest after a 30-day wait period. For eligible military students, DANTES only funds the first attempt to pass an exam; any subsequent attempts to pass a failed exam are the test taker's responsibility.
How should I study for this exam?
Start with a current introductory human resource management textbook or a college course outline. Cover each content area, then answer practice multiple-choice questions and review every mistake. Pay special attention to distinctions between similar terms, such as appraisal methods, compensation types, and employment laws.
What are common mistakes candidates make?
Candidates often memorize definitions without understanding how concepts apply in scenarios. The exam may ask you to choose the best action in a workplace situation. Another common mistake is confusing similar legal requirements or compensation terms. Practice scenario questions and check your reasoning, not just your recall.
Where can I take the exam?
You must take it at an authorized DSST testing center. Most are on college campuses. You should contact the testing center before taking the exam to understand its policies, because some locations do not allow walk-ins and require exams to be scheduled.
How do I register and pay?
Registration and payment are completed at the testing center within the testing platform on the day of the exam. You cannot register online before testing. Bring current and valid picture identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or picture student identification.