Standardized Examination

Prior Learning Assessment is a method whereby learning gained through an individual’s life experience is considered as credit toward a university degree program. This learning can come from a variety of sources, including military service, family responsibilities, work experience, etc. Individuals can apply for PLA credit through the PLA Advisor, located in CARES who directs the student’s request to the appropriate academic department. Caldwell University academic departments have created a number of different methods for evaluating student learning to demonstrate that their life experiences are similar to the learning gained through formal college level education. Caldwell University follows the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) guidelines in the award of credit.
An eligible candidate for the PLA program is a student whose life experiences have resulted in knowledge-based college learning. To begin the process, the student will:
1)    Search the catalog for a Course Description that corresponds to your prior learning experience & write a narrative as to why you feel your experience qualifies you for PLA Credit
2)    *Meet with the PLA Advisor, located in the Academic Advising Department to begin the process of determining feasibility.  The PLA Advisor will assist you in connecting with the proper academic department and subject matter specialist to review your narrative. The narrative will determine whether you are eligible to move forward with the Assessment and Analysis. If the narrative is approved, then you will be referred to the academic department to review the method by which your experience will be evaluated in detail, using criteria established by the academic department. These methods may include a challenge test, portfolio review, content analysis, etc.
3)    Once your assessment is completed an analysis will take place and the PLA credit will either be accepted or rejected based on the findings.

*If approved by the Chair & content Specialist, a PLA Approval of Award of Credit will be submitted to the Office of the Registrar for processing.

*Fees are applicable during application & award of credit phase, check the Catalog for the most current fees.
PLA credit can be awarded for course work required to earn an academic degree. No more than 60 credits can be awarded through PLA credit. Up to 50% of a student’s major may be awarded by PLA credit. At least 50% of a student’s major must be completed at Caldwell University, therefore transfer and PLA credit awarded cannot exceed the 50% threshold. The last 30 credits of a student’s degree must be completed at Caldwell University and excludes PLA credit. The recommendation to award PLA credits must be received by the Registrar prior to the beginning of the last semester before a student’s anticipated graduation.