CREDIT FOR PRIOR LEARNING

What is Credit For Prior Learning?

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is the recognition of college-level learning gained through knowledge, skills, and competencies an individual has gained outside of the traditional classroom for college credit. CPL may also be referred to as prior learning assessment (PLA).

Why CPL?

CPL allows students to receive formal credit and recognition for their existing knowledge and skills, enabling them to save both time and money toward a postsecondary degree or credential.

How do students get CPL?

Methods and costs for assessing and awarding CPL vary by institution. See the CPL Clearinghouse (CHE) for additional details.

PARTNER RESOURCES

Indiana CPL Policies and Guidance

• CPL Model Policy Guidance (Full)
  • CPL Value Statement
  • Program and Service Design
  • Transcription, Transferability, and Data
  • Standards for Assessing CPL and Quality Assurance (Curriculum)
  • Community, Workforce, and Employer Partnerships
• Indiana Commission for Higher Education Resolution on CPL Model Policy Guidance
• Financial Aid CPL Policy
• Related Indiana Code
  • Indiana Code 21-18-12.6-6 - Clearinghouse
  • Indiana Code 21-42-72-2 - Credit for military service courses

Training Webinars:

CPL Fundamentals and Benefits: This 75-minute webinar by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) is aimed at key stakeholders to create buy-in to the concepts surrounding CPL. The session will include an overview of what CPL is and is not, the most recent research on the benefits of CPL, and why CPL provides value to students and institutions.

• CPL Fundamentals and Benefits Webinar

From the Ground Up: This two-part workshop by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) is designed as an in-depth introduction to credit for prior learning. The workshop lays a foundation by exploring the different opportunities students have to demonstrate their knowledge and learning, and the impact CPL has on organizational practices and student success. Participants engage in case studies that examine principles of organizational change and how a CPL program becomes integral to student learning and success. Using sample documents, scenarios, and institutional examples, participants will work collaboratively to create an action plan and design processes for introducing or expanding CPL options to gain support from key campus constituencies.

This workshop was designed for CPL owners (coordinators/administrators/degree planners), university administration, registrars, faculty members who advise course scheduling/degree plans, and other individuals needing an introductory level of understanding for CPL efforts.

• From the Ground Up Workshop: Part 1
• From the Ground Up Workshop: Part 2
• Participant Workbook

CPL Collaborative Initiative

Final Report

• 2024 CPL Full Report (360 pages with appendices)
• 2024 CPL Main Report (48 pages, no appendices)

Select Appendices

• Credit for Prior Learning Resources
• Military Cultural Awareness Resources
• CPL Ambassador Brief
• 2021 Policy Recommendations Report

CPL Clearinghouse (CHE)

https://transferin.net/ways-to-earn-credit/credit-for-prior-learning-cpl-clearinghouse/