Going back to college as an adult can feel like starting over. But what if you didn’t have to?
For many returning students, Prior Learning Assessments [PLAs] can offer a powerful shortcut to earning a degree faster and more affordably. PLAs allow adult learners to receive college credit for knowledge gained through work, training, military service, certifications, volunteer work, or other real-life experiences. If you’re returning to college with years of experience under your belt, PLAs can help you get credit for what you already know, bringing you one step closer to graduation and career advancement.
What Are Prior Learning Assessments?
A Prior Learning Assessment is a process used by colleges and universities to evaluate a student’s existing knowledge and skills for academic credit. This credit can count toward a degree just like the credit you’d earn in a traditional class.
PLAs come in a few different forms:
- Portfolio assessments – You submit documentation of your professional or personal learning experiences along with a reflective narrative.
- Standardized exams – You take tests like CLEP or DSST to demonstrate your knowledge in specific subjects.
- Challenge exams – Some schools offer custom exams for particular courses, allowing you to test out of them.
- Evaluated training programs – If you’ve completed training at work or through the military, you may be eligible for credit if that training is recognized by ACE [American Council on Education].
Saving Time and Money
One of the biggest advantages of PLAs is that they can significantly reduce the time it takes to finish your degree. For working adults with family or financial responsibilities, this can be a game-changer. Instead of sitting through an entire semester learning concepts you already use every day at work, PLAs give you the chance to skip ahead.
Saving time also means saving money. The cost of submitting a PLA portfolio or taking a CLEP exam is generally much lower than the tuition for a full course. That means fewer classes to pay for—and a quicker return on your investment in education.
Recognizing Real-World Experience
Many adult learners bring a wealth of real-world experience to the table. Whether you’ve worked in business, education, healthcare, the military, or any other field, chances are you’ve developed skills and knowledge that align with college-level learning. PLAs give that experience the recognition it deserves, validating your hard-earned expertise in a formal academic setting.
This process can also boost your confidence. If you’ve been out of the classroom for a while, seeing your life experience translated into academic credit can remind you that you’re more than ready for this next step.
A Path Toward Career Advancement
Earning a degree is often the key to unlocking new opportunities for career advancement, whether you’re aiming for a promotion, planning to switch fields, or looking to increase your earning potential. By using PLAs to speed up the process, you can reach your goals sooner.
Employers also tend to value candidates who can demonstrate both experience and education. When you use a PLA to turn your professional background into college credit, you’re showing future employers that you’re not only capable of learning, but that you already have.
Getting Started with PLAs
Every college has its own policies regarding PLAs, so the first step is to talk to an admissions advisor or academic counselor. They can help you understand which types of PLA your target school accepts, how to submit documentation, and what deadlines to keep in mind.
You’ll also want to reflect on your work history, training, and life experiences. Think about projects you’ve managed, software you’ve mastered, certifications you’ve earned, or leadership roles you’ve held. All of these can potentially translate into credit.
