Learning doesn’t only happen in a classroom. Many adults develop college-level knowledge through years of work experience, military service, professional certifications, apprenticeships, employer-sponsored training, volunteer leadership, or independent study. If you’ve already mastered skills that are taught in college courses, you may be able to earn academic credit for what you already know.
Known as Credits for Prior Learning (CPL), these opportunities allow eligible students to apply qualifying knowledge toward a college credential without taking courses that cover material they’ve already learned. This can be especially helpful for working adults, military service members, and students returning to school after spending years building their careers.
Depending on your college’s policies, earning credits for prior learning may help you:
- Graduate sooner by reducing the number of courses you need to complete.
- Lower your overall tuition costs by paying for fewer classes.
- Avoid repeating subjects you’ve already mastered through real-world experience.
- Make better use of the education and training you’ve already completed.
Not every type of experience qualifies for college credit, however. Colleges award credit for demonstrated learning, not simply time spent in a job or years of experience. Throughout this guide, you’ll learn what credits for prior learning are, who may qualify, and how colleges determine whether your existing knowledge can count toward a degree.
What Are Credits for Prior Learning?
Credits for Prior Learning (CPL) are college credits awarded for knowledge and skills you’ve gained outside a traditional college classroom. Instead of requiring every student to complete the same coursework, many colleges recognize that learning can take place through professional experience, military training, industry certifications, apprenticeships, independent study, and other structured learning opportunities.
You may also hear this process referred to as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). While the terms are closely related, they are not exactly the same. Credits for Prior Learning refer to the academic credit a student may receive, while a prior learning assessment is the method a college uses to evaluate whether your existing knowledge meets its academic standards. If you’d like to learn more about how colleges assess prior learning, visit our guide to Prior Learning Assessments.
Rather than asking students to repeat material they already understand, colleges evaluate whether their knowledge is equivalent to what would be learned in a specific college course. To earn credit, students must demonstrate that they have achieved the same learning outcomes expected of students who completed that course through traditional instruction.
For example, an experienced project manager may have developed skills in budgeting, leadership, and organizational planning that align with learning outcomes in a business management course. Similarly, a military electronics technician may have completed technical training comparable to introductory college coursework in electronics or information technology. Simply holding these positions does not guarantee college credit, but documented learning and demonstrated competencies may qualify.
Many colleges rely on established evaluation methods and nationally recognized recommendations when reviewing prior learning. For example, the American Council on Education (ACE) has evaluated military training and thousands of workplace education programs to help colleges determine whether they may be appropriate for college credit. Likewise, the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) has long supported quality standards for recognizing learning acquired outside the classroom.
It’s important to remember that every college sets its own policies. Schools may differ in the types of prior learning they recognize, the maximum number of credits they award, how those credits apply to degree requirements, and whether they can be used toward a major. Before enrolling, review the institution’s credit for prior learning policy and speak with an admissions representative or academic advisor to understand your options.
How Do Credits for Prior Learning Work?
While every college has its own policies, the overall process for earning credits for prior learning is fairly similar. The goal is to determine whether the knowledge you’ve gained outside the classroom is equivalent to what students would learn in a college course.
Here’s what you can typically expect.
Step 1: Meet with an Academic Advisor
Before pursuing credits for prior learning, schedule a meeting with an academic advisor or admissions counselor. This conversation can help you determine whether seeking prior learning credit makes sense for your degree plan.
An advisor can help you:
- Review your degree requirements.
- Identify courses that may be eligible for prior learning credit.
- Explain the college’s policies and limits on Credits for Prior Learning (CPL).
- Discuss any fees, deadlines, or documentation requirements.
- Determine whether prior learning credits can be applied toward your major, electives, or general education requirements.
For example, if you’re returning to school after working in information technology for 10 years, an advisor may recommend exploring credit opportunities related to networking, computer systems, or cybersecurity rather than introductory computer courses you’ve already outgrown.
Starting with an advisor can also help you avoid spending time gathering documentation for credits your school does not award.
Step 2: Document Your Knowledge
The next step is to provide evidence of what you’ve learned. Colleges generally look for documentation that demonstrates both the depth and relevance of your knowledge.
Depending on your experience, you may be asked to submit:
- A current resume
- Employment history and job descriptions
- Military transcripts or service records
- Professional licenses
- Industry certifications
- Employer-sponsored training records
- Apprenticeship documentation
- Certificates of completion
- Professional development records
- A portfolio showcasing projects, reports, presentations, or other examples of your work
For instance, a registered nurse may submit proof of nursing licensure and continuing education, while a construction supervisor might provide apprenticeship records, safety certifications, and documentation of project management responsibilities.
The more organized and detailed your documentation is, the easier it is for the college to evaluate your learning.
Step 3: Complete an Assessment
Once your documentation has been reviewed, the college will determine whether your knowledge aligns with the learning outcomes of a particular course.
Depending on the institution, this evaluation may involve one or more assessment methods, such as:
- Reviewing a professional portfolio
- Evaluating military or workplace training
- Recognizing approved industry certifications
- Administering an exam that measures subject knowledge
The focus is not on how long you’ve held a job, but on what you’ve learned and whether that learning matches college-level expectations.
Because assessment methods vary, it’s helpful to review your school’s prior learning assessment policies to understand exactly how your knowledge will be evaluated.
Step 4: Receive College Credit
If your prior learning meets the college’s academic standards, the approved credits are added to your student record.
At many colleges:
- Credits appear on your official transcript.
- Credits count toward applicable degree requirements.
- No traditional letter grade is assigned.
- The credits often do not affect your grade point average (GPA), although policies differ by institution.
For example, if you’re awarded three credits equivalent to an introductory management course, those credits may satisfy that degree requirement without affecting your GPA. You can then focus your time and tuition dollars on completing courses that introduce new concepts and move you closer to graduation.
Before relying on prior learning credits to meet your degree requirements, confirm how your college applies them. Some institutions place limits on the number of credits you can earn through prior learning or restrict how they apply within specific academic programs.
Types of Prior Learning That May Qualify
Colleges recognize that learning can happen in many different settings, but not just in a college classroom. Depending on the institution’s policies, you may be able to earn credits for prior learning based on your professional experience, military training, certifications, apprenticeships, or other structured learning opportunities.
It’s important to remember that experience alone does not automatically qualify for college credit. Colleges evaluate what you learned through those experiences and whether that learning is comparable to the outcomes of a college-level course.
Professional Work Experience
Many adults develop specialized knowledge through years of employment. While simply holding a job does not earn college credit, the skills and competencies you’ve gained may align with coursework in your degree program.
Examples of professional experience that may support prior learning credit include:
- Management and team leadership
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- Information technology and cybersecurity
- Healthcare administration or clinical support
- Marketing and digital communications
- Manufacturing and industrial operations
- Skilled trades such as electrical work, HVAC, plumbing, or welding
- Project management and business operations
For example, a marketing manager who has spent several years developing digital advertising campaigns, analyzing customer data, and managing budgets may have knowledge comparable to introductory marketing or business courses. Likewise, an experienced network administrator may demonstrate learning that aligns with certain information technology coursework.
Colleges typically require documentation that shows what you learned, how you applied that knowledge, and whether it meets the learning outcomes for a specific course.
Military Training
Military service often includes extensive technical instruction, leadership development, and specialized occupational training. As a result, many colleges award credit for certain military learning experiences.
Depending on your background, qualifying learning may include:
- Military occupational specialty (MOS), Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), or Navy rating training
- Technical schools
- Leadership schools and professional military education
- Medical, logistics, engineering, intelligence, communications, or cybersecurity training
- Specialized certifications earned during military service
Many colleges use recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE) when evaluating military education and training. ACE reviews military courses and occupations and recommends the amount and subject area of college credit that may be appropriate. Colleges then decide whether and how to apply those recommendations toward a student’s degree.
Professional Certifications
Many employers and certification organizations offer training that demonstrates college-level knowledge. Some colleges recognize these credentials and award academic credit when they align with course requirements.
Examples may include professional certifications from organizations such as:
- CompTIA
- Cisco
- SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management)
- PMI (Project Management Institute)
- Microsoft
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Google Career Certificates (at colleges that recognize them)
For example, an IT professional with multiple CompTIA or Cisco certifications may already possess knowledge covered in introductory networking or computer support courses. Similarly, an experienced project manager with a PMI credential may qualify for credit in business or project management programs at some institutions.
Recognition of certifications varies widely, so always check your prospective college’s policy before assuming a certification will transfer into academic credit.
Apprenticeships
Registered apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with paid, hands-on work experience, allowing participants to build technical knowledge while working in their chosen field.
Depending on the program and institution, colleges may award prior learning credit for apprenticeships in areas such as:
- Construction trades
- Manufacturing
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Industrial maintenance
- Information technology
Employer-sponsored apprenticeship programs may also qualify if they include structured training with measurable learning outcomes.
Employer Training Programs
Many companies invest heavily in employee development through formal training programs. When these programs include documented learning and measurable competencies, some colleges may consider them for prior learning credit.
Examples include:
- Corporate leadership development programs
- Technical skills training
- Management academies
- Sales and customer service training
- Compliance and regulatory education
- Safety and workplace certification programs
For instance, a healthcare organization may provide extensive leadership training for nurse managers, while a manufacturing company may offer advanced technical instruction in quality control or industrial automation. In some cases, these programs have already been evaluated by organizations such as ACE, making it easier for colleges to determine whether credit may be appropriate.
Volunteer and Community Leadership
Learning can also take place through meaningful volunteer service and leadership roles within a community.
Examples include:
- Leading a nonprofit organization
- Serving on a nonprofit board of directors
- Organizing community initiatives
- Managing fundraising campaigns
- Coordinating disaster relief or outreach programs
- Leading youth or civic organizations
For example, someone who has served as treasurer for a nonprofit may have developed budgeting, financial reporting, and organizational management skills comparable to coursework in business or nonprofit administration.
However, volunteer service by itself does not earn college credit. Colleges look for evidence that the experience resulted in college-level learning and that you can demonstrate the knowledge and competencies expected in an academic course. Documentation, reflective narratives, and other assessment methods may be required to show how your experience aligns with specific learning outcomes.
Common Ways Colleges Award Credit for Prior Learning
Every college has its own process for awarding credits for prior learning. Some rely on standardized exams, while others evaluate professional experience, military training, certifications, or portfolios. Many institutions offer multiple options, allowing students to choose the method that best reflects how they gained their knowledge.
The following are some of the most common ways colleges award credit for prior learning.
Portfolio Assessment
A portfolio assessment allows students to demonstrate that they have achieved the learning outcomes of a college course through real-world experience. Rather than taking a class, students compile evidence showing what they know and how they learned it.
A portfolio may include materials such as:
- A professional resume
- Job descriptions and employment history
- Work samples or completed projects
- Business reports or presentations
- Performance evaluations
- Professional licenses
- Industry certifications
- Military records
- Certificates from employer-sponsored training
- Reflective essays explaining how specific experiences relate to course objectives
For example, an experienced human resources manager seeking credit for an introductory HR course might submit employee training materials they developed, performance management documentation, and evidence of workplace policy implementation. The college reviews this information to determine whether it demonstrates learning equivalent to the course.
Because portfolio requirements differ by institution, be sure to review your school’s prior learning assessment policies before beginning the process.
CLEP Exams
The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows students to earn college credit by passing standardized exams instead of completing certain introductory college courses.
CLEP exams are commonly available in subjects such as:
- College Composition
- College Mathematics
- American Government
- U.S. History
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Spanish
- French
- Business Law
- Principles of Management
- Principles of Marketing
For example, someone who has used Spanish regularly in the workplace or who already has a strong understanding of introductory psychology may be able to earn credit by passing the appropriate CLEP exam.
Not every college accepts every CLEP exam, and institutions may require different minimum passing scores. Always verify your school’s CLEP policy before registering for an exam.
DSST Exams
Originally developed for military personnel, DSST exams are now available to both military and civilian learners. Like CLEP exams, they allow students to demonstrate college-level knowledge through standardized testing.
DSST offers exams in a variety of subjects, including:
- Business
- Criminal justice
- Computer science
- Health sciences
- Communication
- Mathematics
- Social sciences
- Humanities
These exams remain especially popular among active-duty service members, veterans, and adult learners who have developed subject knowledge through work or military training.
Some colleges accept DSST exams for transfer credit, while others do not, so it’s important to confirm acceptance before taking an exam.
Challenge Exams
Some colleges develop their own challenge exams for specific courses within their curriculum.
Instead of enrolling in a class, students demonstrate their knowledge by passing an exam created by the institution. If they meet the required score, they may receive credit for that course.
Challenge exams are often used for:
- Foreign languages
- Computer applications
- Mathematics
- Business courses
- Technical subjects
Because these exams are created by individual colleges, availability, testing procedures, fees, and passing requirements vary from one institution to another.
ACE Credit Recommendations
Many colleges evaluate learning based on recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE), an organization that reviews educational experiences outside traditional colleges and universities.
ACE has evaluated thousands of learning experiences, including:
- Military occupations and training
- Employer-sponsored workforce education
- Corporate leadership programs
- Technical and professional training
- Government agency training
- Some online learning programs
After completing an ACE-reviewed program, students may receive an ACE transcript documenting recommended college credit. Colleges that recognize ACE recommendations then determine whether those credits fit within the student’s degree program.
While ACE recommendations are widely respected, they are not automatically accepted by every institution. Each college decides whether to award credit and how those credits apply toward graduation requirements.
Industry Certifications
Many colleges recognize professional certifications as evidence of college-level learning. Depending on the certification and degree program, students may receive credit without completing the equivalent course.
Common examples include certifications from organizations such as:
- CompTIA
- Cisco
- Microsoft
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- SHRM
- PMI (Project Management Institute)
- Salesforce
- Google Career Certificates (where accepted)
For example, a student pursuing an information technology degree may receive credit for networking or cybersecurity coursework after earning recognized industry certifications. Likewise, a project management certification may satisfy requirements in certain business programs.
Acceptance varies by institution, and colleges may periodically update the certifications they recognize. Before enrolling, review your prospective school’s credit for prior learning policy or speak with an academic advisor to determine whether your credentials may qualify.
*Keep in mind: Many colleges allow students to combine multiple methods of earning prior learning credit. For example, you might receive credit through military training, pass a CLEP exam in psychology, and submit a portfolio documenting management experience. Understanding all of the options available can help you maximize the number of credits you earn and potentially shorten the path to completing your degree.
Who Can Benefit from Credits for Prior Learning?
Credits for Prior Learning (CPL) can benefit anyone who has gained college-level knowledge outside a traditional classroom. While not every experience qualifies for academic credit, many adult learners are surprised to discover that years of work, training, or service may help them make progress toward a degree.
Here are some of the groups most likely to benefit.
Adults Returning to College
Many adults leave college before earning a degree, then spend years building valuable knowledge through work and life experience. If you’re thinking about going back to school, prior learning credits may help you avoid starting from scratch.
For example, someone who left college 15 years ago and has since managed teams, completed employer training, and earned professional certifications may already possess knowledge that aligns with college coursework.
Working Professionals
Professionals often develop specialized skills that go well beyond what is taught in introductory college courses. Depending on your role, you may have gained knowledge in areas such as leadership, finance, marketing, project management, customer service, or information technology.
Credits for prior learning can help working adults receive academic recognition for that expertise while reducing the amount of coursework needed to complete a degree.
Military Service Members and Veterans
Military service frequently includes technical training, leadership development, and occupational education that may be evaluated for college credit.
Active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and veterans may qualify for credit based on military occupations, formal training schools, and professional military education. Many colleges use recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE) when evaluating military learning.
Military students should also explore military education benefits to determine what financial assistance may be available alongside prior learning credits.
First Responders
Police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics often complete extensive training throughout their careers.
Some colleges recognize this learning in fields such as emergency management, criminal justice, public administration, fire science, or healthcare. Additional certifications and continuing education may also strengthen a student’s application for prior learning credit.
Healthcare Workers
Healthcare professionals regularly complete clinical training, continuing education, and specialized certifications throughout their careers.
Depending on the college and degree program, professionals such as licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), medical assistants, radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare workers may qualify for prior learning credit related to their professional knowledge.
Information Technology Professionals
Technology changes quickly, and many IT professionals gain advanced knowledge through certifications, employer training, and hands-on experience long before enrolling in a degree program.
Professionals working in the following areas may find that their certifications and technical expertise align with college coursework:
- Cybersecurity
- Network administration
- Cloud computing
- Software support
- Systems administration
- Data analytics
Skilled Trades Workers
Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, welders, mechanics, manufacturing professionals, and other skilled trades workers often complete years of apprenticeship training and continuing education.
Many colleges recognize structured apprenticeship programs and documented technical training as evidence of college-level learning, particularly in applied technology and workforce education programs.
Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners
Running a business requires knowledge in areas such as finance, marketing, operations, customer service, sales, and leadership.
Business owners who have developed these skills through practical experience may be able to demonstrate learning comparable to coursework in business administration or management.
Corporate Managers and Leaders
Managers often complete leadership academies, professional development programs, compliance training, and other employer-sponsored education throughout their careers.
Combined with years of supervisory experience, this learning may support prior learning credit in subjects such as organizational leadership, human resources, project management, or business management.
Benefits of Credits for Prior Learning
For many adult learners, earning credits for prior learning is more than a way to save time – it can make completing a college degree more realistic and affordable. By recognizing learning that has already taken place, colleges help students build on what they know instead of requiring them to repeat introductory coursework.
Finish Your Degree Faster
Every prior learning credit you earn is one less credit you may need to complete through traditional coursework.
Depending on your college’s policies and the amount of qualifying learning you have, prior learning credits can reduce the number of classes needed to graduate. This can be especially valuable for adults balancing work, family responsibilities, and school.
For example, a student who earns 12 credits through prior learning may be able to complete a bachelor’s degree a semester earlier than originally planned.
Lower Tuition Costs
College tuition is typically charged on a per-credit basis. If you’re able to earn credit for knowledge you already possess, you may pay for fewer courses overall.
Although some colleges charge assessment or evaluation fees, those costs are often significantly lower than the tuition for completing the equivalent class. Depending on the number of credits awarded, the savings can add up quickly.
Avoid Repeating What You Already Know
Many adult learners already use college-level skills every day in their careers.
Rather than spending time in introductory classes covering familiar material, prior learning credits recognize existing knowledge and allow students to focus on developing new skills that support their educational and career goals.
For example, an experienced accounting professional may be able to bypass certain introductory accounting coursework if they can demonstrate equivalent learning.
Increase Motivation
Returning to college can feel overwhelming, especially after being away from school for several years.
Receiving academic credit for prior learning acknowledges the time and effort students have invested in their careers, military service, and professional development. Many students find that starting a degree program with credits already earned provides a sense of momentum and makes graduation feel more attainable.
Improve Degree Completion Rates
Research suggests that recognizing prior learning can improve student success.
A multi-institution study conducted by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) found that students who earned prior learning credit were more likely to complete their degrees than similar students who did not receive such credit. The study also found that these students often graduated sooner, with particularly strong outcomes among adult learners, low-income students, Hispanic students, and Black students.
While earning prior learning credit does not guarantee graduation, it can remove barriers that often delay degree completion by reducing both the time and cost required to earn a credential.
How Many Credits Can You Earn?
The number of credits you can earn through credits for prior learning depends on the college you attend, your degree program, and the types of learning you can demonstrate.
There is no universal standard for how many prior learning credits a student can receive. Some colleges place strict limits on the number of CPL credits that can apply toward a degree, while others have more flexible policies and may allow students to earn a significant portion of their degree requirements through prior learning.
For example, one college may allow a student to apply 15 credits earned through professional certifications and work experience, while another institution may accept a much larger number of credits based on military training, industry credentials, portfolio assessments, or standardized exams.
However, prior learning credits typically cannot replace every requirement needed to earn a degree. Colleges generally require students to complete a certain number of credits through the institution itself, including major requirements, advanced coursework, residency requirements, or other academic requirements.
Before pursuing prior learning credit, ask your prospective college:
- How many CPL credits can I apply toward my degree?
- Do these credits satisfy general education, elective, or major requirements?
- Are there limits for credits earned through exams, certifications, or portfolios?
- Are there residency requirements requiring me to complete a certain number of credits at this college?
Understanding these policies early can help you create a realistic degree completion plan and avoid earning credits that may not apply toward graduation.
Credits for Prior Learning vs. Transfer Credits
Credits for Prior Learning and Transfer Credits can both reduce the number of courses you need to complete, but they are earned in different ways.
Transfer credits come from courses you have already completed at another college or university. Prior learning credits recognize knowledge gained outside traditional college coursework, such as professional experience, military training, certifications, or independent learning.
| Credits for Prior Learning | Transfer Credits |
| Earned through work experience, military training, certifications, exams, or other forms of demonstrated learning | Earned through previously completed college courses |
| Requires an evaluation to determine whether learning meets college-level standards | Requires review of official transcripts and completed coursework |
| May involve portfolios, exams, or other assessment methods | Based primarily on grades, course descriptions, and institutional review |
| Credit is awarded for demonstrated knowledge gained outside a classroom | Credit is awarded for completed academic coursework |
| Policies vary by institution | Policies vary by institution |
For example, a student who completed two years at a community college may transfer those completed courses toward a bachelor’s degree. A professional with 10 years of project management experience, however, may earn prior learning credit by demonstrating knowledge equivalent to specific business courses.
Many adult learners use both options together. Someone returning to college after several years may have transfer credits from previous college coursework while also earning credits for prior learning based on professional experience or certifications.
How to Maximize Your Prior Learning Credits
If you believe your experience may qualify for college credit, preparing early can help you identify more opportunities and make the evaluation process smoother.
Gather Documentation Early
Start collecting records before applying or enrolling. Colleges often require evidence showing what you learned and how that learning was gained.
Useful documentation may include:
- Employment records
- Job descriptions
- Training certificates
- Performance evaluations
- Work samples
- Licenses
- Professional development records
- Military documentation
The more detailed your records are, the easier it may be for a college to evaluate your experience.
Keep Certification Records
Save copies of current and expired professional certifications, exam results, and completion records.
Certifications from organizations such as CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft, AWS, PMI, SHRM, and other professional groups may qualify for credit at some institutions. Keeping these records organized ensures you do not overlook potential credit opportunities.
Save Military Transcripts
Current and former service members should request and maintain copies of their military education records.
Military transcripts document completed training, occupations, and recommended credits that colleges may use when evaluating prior learning. These records can provide important evidence of knowledge gained through military service.
Update Your Resume
Your resume can help colleges understand the scope of your professional experience.
When updating your resume, include:
- Specific responsibilities
- Leadership experience
- Technical skills
- Specialized training
- Projects completed
- Certifications earned
- Software or tools you use
A detailed resume can help advisors identify areas where prior learning credit may be possible.
Research College Policies
Prior learning policies differ significantly from one college to another.
Before enrolling, research:
- Types of learning the school recognizes
- Maximum number of credits allowed
- Assessment fees
- Accepted certifications or exams
- How credits apply toward your degree
A college with a strong Online Degree Completion Program may have more options designed specifically for working adults and returning students.
Speak With an Advisor Before Enrolling
An academic advisor can help you understand which prior learning opportunities fit your specific degree plan.
Discuss your:
- Previous education
- Work experience
- Certifications
- Military background
- Career goals
An advisor can help you determine whether pursuing prior learning credits is worthwhile before you invest time and money in assessments.
Complete Assessments Promptly
If your college identifies opportunities for prior learning credit, avoid waiting too long to complete the required steps.
Some assessments require detailed documentation, written explanations, exams, or portfolio development. Completing them early can help ensure your credits are applied correctly as you progress through your degree program.
Choosing a College That Accepts Prior Learning Credits
If you have professional experience, military training, certifications, or other forms of learning outside the classroom, choosing the right college can make a significant difference in how many credits you may be able to earn.
Not every college offers the same credits for prior learning opportunities. Some schools have well-established programs for adult learners, while others may offer only limited options or recognize fewer types of prior learning.
When comparing colleges, look beyond whether a school accepts prior learning credits. Pay attention to how those credits apply toward your specific degree program and whether the process is designed to support students with professional experience.
Questions to Ask a College About Prior Learning Credits
Before enrolling, ask an admissions representative or academic advisor the following questions:
What CPL options are available?
Colleges may offer different ways to earn credit, including portfolio assessments, standardized exams, credit for professional certifications, military training evaluations, and institution-specific assessments.
Understanding your options can help you determine whether your previous experience is likely to qualify.
How many credits can I earn?
Every college sets its own limits. Some institutions allow only a small number of prior learning credits, while others may allow a larger portion of your degree requirements to be completed through CPL.
Ask whether there is a maximum number of credits you can earn and whether those credits apply toward your major, electives, or general education requirements.
Are there portfolio fees?
Some colleges charge fees for reviewing prior learning portfolios or administering assessments. Ask about all potential costs before beginning the process.
While assessment fees are often less expensive than taking an entire course, understanding the costs upfront can help you plan your education budget.
Which certifications are accepted?
If you have professional certifications, ask whether the college recognizes them for credit.
Some schools award credit for industry credentials from organizations such as CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco, PMI, SHRM, AWS, or other recognized providers. However, acceptance varies by institution.
Are military credits accepted?
If you have military experience, ask how the college evaluates military training and whether it uses recommendations from organizations such as the American Council on Education (ACE).
Some schools accept military transcripts and apply recommended credits toward degree requirements, while others may have limitations.
Do CPL credits satisfy major requirements?
A college may accept prior learning credits but apply them only toward electives rather than required courses within your major.
For example, earning credit for general business knowledge may help fulfill elective requirements but may not replace advanced courses required for a business degree. Understanding how credits apply can help you choose the program that best fits your goals.
FAQs About Credits for Prior Learning
What are credits for prior learning?
Credits for Prior Learning (CPL) are college credits awarded for knowledge and skills gained outside a traditional classroom, such as through professional experience, military training, certifications, apprenticeships, or other structured learning. Colleges award credit when students can demonstrate that their learning meets college-level standards.
Is credit for prior learning the same as prior learning assessment?
The terms are related but refer to different parts of the process.
Credits for Prior Learning refer to the academic credit a student receives. A prior learning assessment is the evaluation process colleges use to determine whether a student’s knowledge is equivalent to college coursework.
For example, a student may complete a portfolio assessment (the PLA process) and receive three college credits (the CPL outcome).
Can I get college credit for work experience?
Possibly. Work experience alone does not automatically qualify for college credit, but you may earn credit if you can demonstrate that your professional knowledge matches the learning outcomes of a college course and your school offers a way to evaluate that learning.
For example, an experienced project manager may be able to demonstrate knowledge in areas such as budgeting, scheduling, leadership, and risk management that aligns with college-level coursework.
How many prior learning credits can I earn?
The number of credits you can earn depends on the college, degree program, and type of prior learning.
Some colleges limit CPL credits to a small portion of a degree, while others allow students to earn a significant number of credits through approved prior learning opportunities. However, prior learning credits generally cannot replace every requirement needed for graduation.
Do all colleges accept credits for prior learning?
No. Colleges have different policies regarding prior learning credit.
Some institutions have extensive CPL programs, while others offer limited options or do not award certain types of prior learning credit. Always check with the specific college you are considering.
Are prior learning credits transferable?
Not always. While a college may award you prior learning credits, another institution may not accept them if you transfer.
Transfer decisions are made by the receiving college, which determines whether credits apply toward its degree requirements. If you think you may transfer schools, ask both institutions how prior learning credits are handled.
Can military experience count toward college credit?
Yes, many colleges award credit for military training and experience, particularly when they evaluate military learning using recognized recommendations from organizations such as ACE.
The amount and type of credit awarded depend on your military training, occupation, the college’s policies, and your degree program.
Can professional certifications earn college credit?
Sometimes. Many colleges award credit for approved professional certifications when the certification demonstrates knowledge equivalent to college coursework.
Examples may include certifications in information technology, project management, human resources, business, and other professional fields. Because acceptance varies, confirm with your college before assuming a certification will translate into credit.
Does prior learning credit affect my GPA?
Typically, no. Most colleges record prior learning credits on a transcript without assigning a traditional letter grade, meaning they generally do not affect your grade point average.
However, transcript policies vary, so confirm how your school records CPL credits.
Is there a fee for prior learning assessment?
Often, yes. Some colleges charge fees for portfolio reviews, exams, or other assessment methods used to evaluate prior learning.
Although fees vary, the cost of an assessment is often lower than paying tuition for the equivalent course. Ask your college about all associated costs before beginning the process.
Takeaways
Many adults underestimate the amount of knowledge they have gained outside a classroom. Years of professional work, military service, certifications, apprenticeships, and other learning experiences can represent valuable skills that may help you make progress toward a college degree.
Prior learning credits provide a way for colleges to recognize that learning does not happen only through traditional coursework. By understanding your options, gathering documentation, and researching schools with strong CPL policies, you may be able to reduce the time and cost required to complete your degree.
If you’re considering returning to college, start by speaking with prospective schools about their prior learning policies. A conversation with an academic advisor can help you identify opportunities to apply your existing knowledge toward your educational goals.
