Credit for Prior Learning (Credit by Local Examination or Experiential Learning)
Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is a valuable option for many students, recognizing and rewarding the knowledge and skills they have gained outside the traditional classroom. Whether through work experience, military service, or other non-academic avenues, CPL offers several compelling benefits that make it an attractive choice for accelerating educational and career goals.
Benefits of Receiving Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
- Accelerated degree completion: Graduate faster by bypassing certain courses.
- Cost savings: Reduced tuition and material costs.
- Skill validation: Formal recognition of existing skills and competencies.
- Career enhancement: Improved job prospects and earning potential.
- Increased motivation: Greater engagement due to acknowledged experiences.
- Personalized learning: Customized educational pathways.
- Lifelong learning support: Recognition of continuous skill development.
| Types of CPL | Examples |
| Credits by military training | Joint Service Transcripts, DSST Dantes, DLPT (Defense Language Proficiency Test) |
| Credits by national exams | Advanced Placements (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), College Level Program (CLEP) |
| Credits by local exam | Challenge Exam |
| Credits for certification or license | Occupational experience or training |
| Credits by professional portfolio | Experiential Learning Portfolio |
| Credits by transfer credits | Transfer courses (ex: international college) |
To be eligible for CPL credits, you must:
1. Complete the TCC admissions process
2. Currently be enrolled at TCC
3. Enrolled in a curricular program
4. Speak with an academic advisor or faculty member
Steps to Petition for CPL Credits:
1. Initial consultation: Meet with an advisor, pathway dean, or faculty member to discuss eligible prior learning credits.
2. Submission and evaluation: Submit relevant documentation (e.g., professional certifications, licenses) to an advisor or faculty member for processing. Please allow 5 – 7 business days for evaluation.
3. Notification: Students will be notified of the decision via the Student Messaging Center in SIS.
4. Credit posting: Check the Student Information System (SIS) to verify posted credits.
Important information pertaining to CPL
Prior learning credits will appear as Tidewater Community College-equivalent courses or elective (EEE) courses for which credit has been earned. The source of the credit will clearly be displayed on the advisement report and official transcript.
Prior learning credits will be listed on the student’s transcript with a grade of “T” for transfer credit. These grades will not affect the student’s GPA.
For additional information, please contact your academic advisor. Please note that if you have non-credit bearing courses or experiences, you may also submit them for review. These can include certifications, training programs, or other educational activities that may not carry traditional college credit but could still be evaluated for potential credit transfer.