Credit for Prior Learning is the process of awarding a student credit for competency in subject matter that has been achieved through previous academic study or occupational experience and is determined to be equivalent to college level learning. This may include credit for non-traditional learning such as professional certifications, credit for educational/training programs (military, industry, state and federal government), evaluated program credit by ACE and NCCRS, portfolio evaluation as well as, external advanced placement credit for College Level Examination Program (CLEP), DSST Exams (formerly DANTES Subject Standardized Tests), Advanced Placement Program (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Cambridge Advanced (A/AS) examinations with scores of C or better.
Click here to download the Credit for Prior Learning booklet. (PDF)
Credit for Prior Learning policies at Virginia Western are consistent with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) principles and with Virginia Community College System (VCCS) policy.
General Information
Credit awarded for CLEP, AP, departmental challenge exams, and credit for work experience may satisfy VWCC program of study requirements, but will not necessarily transfer to another institution. Students desiring to transfer credit awarded via these methods should contact their four-year college of interest to determine its policy. However, appropriate credit, when awarded, will be listed on the student’s official VWCC transcript.
Students desiring to earn college credit through one of the above Credit for Prior Learning methods can request an appointment with an advisor. Click here to request an appointment with an advisor.
Credits2Career Credit for Prior Learning Predictor Tool
Whether you learned a skill during your service in the military, earned a certification on the job or aced an exam, you’re already on your way to earning a degree or credential. Find out how many college credits you have earned by compiling all your experience into one place using the Credit2Careers Credit for Prior Learning Predictor Tool.