Earn Credit for Prior Learning

Save time and money by earning college credits for your prior learning experiences.

If you've gained college-level knowledge outside the classroom — through work, certifications or other experiences — you may be eligible to earn UND academic credit through a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). 

UND has options for prior learning assessment that include both specialized exams and portfolio reviews.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to request PLA credit, you must be admitted to UND and have one or both of the following:

• At least two years of work experience in a related setting (documentation required). 
• Formal workplace certifications, licenses or professional training that can be verified.

How Much Credit Can Be Earned

• You may earn a maximum of 12 credits through PLA toward your UND academic program.
• Credits may apply toward your major, minor or electives — depending on departmental approval. PLA credit may not satisfy all program requirements.
• Prior Learning Assessment credit is intended for UND use.  If you transfer to another institution, there is no guarantee that the transfer institution will recognize your Prior Learning Assessment credit earned at UND.
• Only one request per academic program is allowed. 
• Important: Submitting a request does not guarantee credit. Credits are awarded only if your exam or portfolio review meets UND's academic standards.

Cost

To request credit for prior learning, you must pay a non-refundable fee that is equal to 20% of base residential tuition for 3 credit hours:

• Undergraduate = $240.17
• Graduate = $311.03

The fee is non-refundable, even if credit is not awarded. If you earn more than 3 credits through the PLA, there is no additional charge. 

Steps to Request a Prior Learning Assessment

1. If you're admitted to UND, submit your initial PLA Request Form.
   • Our PLA team will contact you to learn more about the request and ensure the academic department is able to conduct a portfolio review or offer the exam.
2. Initial consultation. If eligible, you'll receive a link to register and pay the non-refundable fee for the assessment process.
3. Assessment. After payment, you'll work with the PLA team to either:
   • Arrange a specialized exam with the academic department, or
   • Develop a portfolio based on your experiences and the learning goals of the program and/or courses.
4. Results. The academic department will provide you with the results of your exam or portfolio evaluation. 
5. Credit awarded. If credit is approved, the earned credits will be added to your UND academic record.