Credit for Prior Learning

CPL is the process of awarding college credit for validated college-level skills and knowledge gained outside the college classroom. If students earn credit through CPL, they'll receive course credit without having to take the class.

CPL can give students a jumpstart on completing their degree, with some students graduating 6 to 10 months faster.

Service members and working adults with industry certifications or completed workplace training should Create an Account on the CPL Student Portal to see which nearby colleges offer credit for their prior skills and expertise.

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Q: What is credit for prior learning?
A: Credit for prior learning is college credit awarded for certain college-level skills and knowledge gained outside a college classroom. Credit for prior learning can save students time and money toward their educational goals.
 
Q: What is the process for determining if a student’s experience qualifies for credit for prior learning?
A: Students may need to take an exam, submit a portfolio, or provide military transcripts. Students should speak with a counselor at their college about which CPL method is best for them. 

Q: How can a student find out if they can earn college credit for their prior learning?
A: Students who have gained college-level knowledge or skills through work experience, military service, apprenticeships, industry certifications, examinations, or other learning experiences may be eligible for Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). Students and prospective students should create a CPL Profile on the CPL Student Portal at www.creditforbeingyou.org to see which colleges offer credit for their prior learning and then connect with a counselor at the school of their choice. 

Q: What types of learning or experience can be evaluated for credit for prior learning?
A: These are the types of learning or experience that can be evaluated for credit for prior learning:

Military Service/ Training
Colleges will review military training/occupational specialty from a Joint Service Transcript (JST) to align it for college credit.

Industry, State, and Federal Training
Professional credentials, certificates, and licenses can be worth college credit.

Standardized Exams
Earn credit through nationally recognized exams like CLEP, DSST, and AP tests.

Apprenticeships & Internships/ Workplace Training
Hands-on learning through employer training programs and internships can turn into college credit.

Volunteer Work & Civic Activities
Community service and volunteer programs (e.g., Peace Corps) could potentially be worth college credit.

Credit by Exam or Combined Evidence
If students don’t have military training or certifications, they can talk to a college counselor about how to best demonstrate their prior learning to benefit academic and career goals through a portfolio or other methods.
 
Q: Is there a fee for Credit for Prior Learning?
A: In most cases, there is no fee for Credit for Prior Learning. If a college requires a challenge examination, there may be a small fee; however, it cannot exceed the cost of enrolling in the course. Students should contact their college for information about any applicable fees.
 
Q: Is there a limit to the number of units that can be awarded as credit for prior learning?
A: Students should contact their college for more information. Students may be able to earn Credit for Prior Learning for multiple eligible courses. The number of credits that may be awarded depends on the college's policies and the student's educational goal. A counselor can help students understand how CPL may apply toward a certificate, degree, or transfer plan.

Q: Will Credit for Prior Learning transfer to a university?
A: Transferability depends on the receiving college or university. While a California Community College records Credit for Prior Learning on a student's transcript, the transfer college or university determines whether those credits will be accepted. Students planning to transfer should meet with a counselor early to understand how Credit for Prior Learning may fit into their educational plan.
 
Q: Do four-year universities honor credit for prior learning?
A: In most cases, credit for prior learning will be recognized for transfer. However, as with transfer of all course credit, students should work closely with their counselor to make informed decisions based on their transfer destination.