The University of Toledo

Prior Learning Assessment

The University of Toledo allows you to receive college credit for relevant work, volunteer and life experiences through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).  Explore how you may earn college credit for learning outside the traditional classroom. Students may earn up to 30 credit hours through Prior Learning Assessment. 

Prior Learning Assessment Benefits:

• Validates learning gained through work and life experience
• Earn credit for your accomplishments
• Eliminates duplication of learning
• May reduce the cost of education
• May shorten the time to complete a college program
• Helps with career development and planning of educational goals
• Enhances your critical thinking as you articulate your knowledge and achievements

How to Get Started:  Students desiring credit through the Prior Learning Assessment process should contact the College at 419.530.3311or email: pla@utoledo.edu

Steps for pursuing Prior Learning Assessment

Portfolio Development
Portfolio Development is a tool for accelerating degree progress by documenting and assessing prior college-level learning gained in a variety of work, volunteer, and learning experiences. A  Prior Learning Assessment Adviser will works closely with you to determine potential for portfolio development to apply toward requirements for a given student's program of study.

A portfolio development class is available to assist students in creating their portfolios. Students pay a $30.00 per credit hour assessment fee when a request for assessment is made. When credit is awarded a transcription fee equivalent to 50% tuition is charged to a student's account. 

Standardized Testing:

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)  - A student may earn college credit by taking the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests at the University Test Center, Scott Park location, Room AS 1200. College credit must not have been earned in the area in which credit is sought and the student may not be currently enrolled in a course in that area. Students should consult the college in which they are enrolled to determine the specific credit limitations. It is recommended that these exams be taken prior to enrolling in classes at The University of Toledo, students may, with adviser's permission, take the exam within the first semester.

• UT CLEP Scores/Course Chart:   www.utoledo.edu/offices/registrar/student_records/clep_exams.html
• CLEP information can be found at: www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/about.html

For information to learn more about CLEP testing and its benefits and eligibility contact an adviser in CALL Student Services at 419.530.3311.

For information regarding CLEP tests scheduling contact the UT Test Center at 419.530.3266.

Credit By Examination - These examinations are conducted by the instructor(s) of courses in which credit is desired. An examination may be sought for many of the courses offered by the college. The student is responsible for making arrangements for examination with the instructor. Application petitions are available here.  

Advanced Placement (AP) Credit - UT Chart Advanced Placement/Advanced Credit