[thelucky41]

The main difference between AP tests and college courses is not the material that is covered (roughly comparable), but rather the format in which the knowledge of the material is evaluated.

Like most standardized tests, the AP tests are incredibly game-able. As a student, I began taking random AP tests without taking the class and just studying a guide the week before the test. I passed every test (most with a 5), but that was because I had learned to become good at the test, rather than learning the material behind it. (There are some exceptions, like art portfolios)

But myself and the above commenter (InclinedPlane) are the exception. There is, frankly, no better way for a student to demonstrate prior knowledge of a subject than through a standardized test.

Dartmouth, and all colleges, are welcome to set their policies to reflect their trust in the system, but there should be a way, whether internal or standardized, for a student to be placed based on prior knowledge.

[Steko]

"just studying ... the week before the test. I passed every test"

I'm not sure this supports your conclusion. My guess is that many of us could do the same for the final exams of the classes those AP tests translate to credit for. In fact I'd guess most of us either did this or know of many people who did the same for even more advanced classes.