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Azusa Pacific University Global

Admissions

Prior Learning Experience

Turn your professional experience into college credit with APU Global’s Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). Earn up to 30 credits toward your undergraduate degree based on workforce training, certifications, and more. Learn how to qualify today!

Prior Learning at a glance

WSCUC-approved process
credits max

30

Maximum credits awarded through Prior Learning Assessment

only

Undergrad

PLA credits apply to bachelor's degree programs

& Gen Studies

Electives

Where approved credits are applied on your plan

Professional experience and credentials could earn you credits toward your degree

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is the evaluation of learning that has taken place outside the traditional classroom, for the purpose of awarding college credit. PLA is a WSCUC-approved process used by APU Global to help students articulate college-level learning that may count toward a degree.

Students may earn credits toward elective or General Studies requirements after admission. The maximum number of credits that may be earned with PLA is 30, and credits may be applied only toward undergraduate degree programs.

What qualifies

College-level learning, wherever it happened.

If you completed employer training, earned a license or certification, served in the military, or passed a standardized exam, that learning may already meet the outcomes of a course in your degree plan.

ACE-recommended training

Workforce training through employers, state and federal agencies, non-profit associations, or apprenticeship programs.

Military training

Occupational experience and coursework documented on a Joint Services Transcript or CCAF transcript.

Credit by examination

CLEP, DSST, and other standardized exam results that map to course learning outcomes.

Licenses and certifications

Professional licenses and recognized industry certifications you already hold.

Professional training documents

Submission of professional and technical training records for faculty review.

Portfolio assessment

Documented, college-level professional learning presented and evaluated as a portfolio.

How the process works

Four steps, with a counselor at every one.

  1. 01

    Get admitted

    PLA credits are awarded after admission to an APU Global undergraduate program, so the application comes first.

  2. 02

    Review with a counselor

    An enrollment counselor reviews your background and identifies which pathways apply to your experience and credentials.

  3. 03

    Submit documentation

    Transcripts, certificates, a Joint Services Transcript, or a portfolio, whatever evidences the learning.

  4. 04

    Faculty evaluation

    Faculty evaluate the documentation against course learning outcomes and approved credit is posted to your record.

Why it is worth pursuing

Up to a year off your degree, and off your bill.

Thirty PLA credits can shorten your time to degree by roughly a year and reduce total cost accordingly. Combined with transfer credit from previous coursework, many working adults enter with a substantial portion of their bachelor’s already complete.
Estimate your costTransfer creditTalk with an Enrollment Counselor