Credit for Prior Learning

Earning Credit for Prior Learning

Individuals come to college from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, some of which may involve college-level learning. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is the evaluation and assessment of an individual’s life learning for college credit, certification, or advanced standing toward future education or training. CPL is a process used by regulatory bodies to evaluate skills and knowledge acquired outside the classroom for the purpose of recognizing competence against a given set of standards, competencies or learning outcomes. Equivalent credit is awarded through a variety of methods; each school or department at IU Indianapolis determines its own process. Complete the form below to inquire about CPL.

To learn more about CPL options, click here.

Types of credit assessment

Certifications

Some programs will award credit for certifications you have received through local or national organizations.

Credit-by-exam

Credit-by-exam is a process that allows you to take a proficiency exam to earn credit for one or more courses based on your knowledge of the material. The testing center maintains details on the CLEP and DSST exams. The admissions office maintains details on AP and IB exams.

Military experience

Active-duty and veterans can receive college credit for military service and save time and money at the same time. A Joint Services Transcript (JST) should be submitted with the application materials for consideration.

Portfolios

A portfolio is a collection of work and documentation that represents your learning. Portfolios are reviewed by departments or faculty to determine the appropriate amount of credit.

Test out

Some programs allow the option to test out of specific courses by taking a proficiency exam. While the test out process allows you to avoid taking one or more courses, it does not award credit.

Transfer credit

IU Indianapolis defines transfer credit as any credit awarded for college-level coursework completed outside of the Indiana University system. This includes dual enrollment coursework you might have completed during high school. Learn more about transfer credit policies and processes.

Schools/Programs that Consider Credit for Prior Learning

Health and Human Sciences
- Health Science
- TESM, Hospitality
Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
- Health Information Management (HIM)
Labor Studies
Liberal Arts
Philanthropy
Public and Environmental Affairs:
- Community & Organizational Leadership
- Criminal Justice
- Public Safety Management
- Management & Civic Leadership
Education

Are there any general policies or fees associated with CPL?

See individual types of assessment above for any CPL-type-specific policies or fees. For general policies and fees, see this helpful overview of special credit from the Office of the Registrar.

Contact for more information

If you have more questions, please feel free to reach out to your assigned academic advisor, who you can find in IU’s Student Online Advising Records (SOAR) system. You are also welcome to contact us here in the Center for Transfer and Adult Students at ctas@iu.edu or 317-278-2630.