DSST Scoring Changes. In 2008, DSST program administrators began converting scoring standards from a curve-based grading system (norm-referenced) to a criterion-based scoring system. Most test scores are now based on a set number of correct answers required to pass, rather than the performance of an entire pool of examinees. Under the updated criterion-referenced DSST scoring standards, tests are graded on a scale of 200 to 500 points. The overhaul of DSST scoring is nearly complete; as of 2014, only eight norm-referenced tests had not been converted to the new scoring method.