PLAR Candidates:

Must be able to demonstrate what they know (their acquired learning) and what they can do based on their work and life experiences; these must match college-level learning outcomes.

Who Evaluates PLAR?

College faculty are the 'course' experts who assess the learning and determine the credit to be awarded for prior learning.

The Best Candidates for PLAR are:

Non-traditional (mature) learners who meet College entrance requirements.

Learners with significant & relevant employment experience, military service, volunteer experience, training, and/or personal study.

Candidates should be:

• Self-directed
• Motivated
• Able to work independently

Applicants do not have to be accepted into a program in order to have their prior
learning assessed. However, completing PLAR does not necessarily mean acceptance into a program.

Screening Questions

Candidates should answer yes to these questions before they contact a Program Coordinator:

• I have at least one year of extensive experience in one field (gained through work, volunteer, and/or leisure activities).
• I have a broad range of experiences related to the field in which I am considering applying for PLAR.
• I am able to complete work independently within specific time frames.
• I am constantly improving myself by taking workshops and reading information related to my profession and interests.
• I have colleagues and supervisors who can attest to my learning if necessary.
• I have college-level learning that can be measured.

If you can answer 'yes' to these questions, see a Program Coordinator and ask to review a course outline(s) for more information on the outcomes that will be measured through the PLAR process.