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What is Credit for Prior Learning or CPL?

Why earn credit for prior learning?

Who is eligible for CPL?

How is experiential learning evaluated by NWTC?

How can I test out of a class?

What are the basic steps to completing a Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)?

How much does Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) cost?


What is Credit for Prior Learning or CPL?

Credit for Prior Learning or CPL is credit awarded for skills and knowledge gained outside of a traditional classroom. Many of our students come to us with years of life, work, and military training and experience. You can save time and money as you pursue your degree by earning credit for prior learning.

Why earn credit for prior learning?

  • Save time. Earning Credit for Prior Learning means having to spend less time in class, less time doing reading and assignments, and possibly graduating sooner. This means more time for work, family, or other priorities in your life.
  • Save money. Compare the cost: CPL course at NWTC is $50 or $90; a three-credit NWTC course will cost over $400 in tuition, not including textbooks and other applicable fees. Additionally, you can use the time you save not attending class to work. If you graduate sooner, you will be earning more sooner too.
  • See success. Both nationally and at NWTC, CPL students are more likely to graduate than students who do not earn CPL. Spending time and money on classes you already understand can be demotivating. On the other hand, being recognized for the skills and knowledge you already bring to the College is highly motivating. Most returning adult learners should qualify for at least some Credit for Prior Learning. Research on NWTC returning adult learners show that students 26 and older are also highly likely to pass at least one Prior Learning Assessment

Who is eligible for CPL?

The best way to find out whether you will be eligible for CPL is to connect with your academic advisor. If not yet enrolled in a program of study, connect with an admissions advisor.

You can also visit the eligibility requirements page.

How is experiential learning evaluated by NWTC?

Three methods (types of CPL assessment) are used by NWTC to evaluate experiential learning (learning gained outside the traditional classroom): credit by exam, portfolio, and skills demonstration.

  • Credit by Exam - $50 fee
  • Credit by Portfolio - $90 fee
  • Credit by Skills Demonstration - $90 fee

How can I test out of a class?

Depending on the CPL assessment available, you will be able to test out of a class by completing an exam (NWTC Credit by Exam or standardized national tests), a skills demonstration, or developing a portfolio.

If you are enrolled in a class and you think that you have the knowledge and skills to test out of it, follow the CPL process for enrolled students.

What are the basic steps to completing Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)?

How to get started with CPL?

  • Connect with your Admissions Advisor or Academic Advisor.
  • Use assessment information and other preparation materials in order to prepare for the assessment. You can find resource on our CPL Library Guides webpage.
  • Review the requirements.
  • Apply and pay the fee ($50 for Credit by Exam, $90 for Credit by Skills Demonstration or Credit by Portfolio).
  • Complete the assessment.

 

 

How much does Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) cost?

  • Credit by Exam - $50
  • Credit by Portfolio - $90
  • Credit by Skills Demonstration - $90

 

NOTE: This fee is based on the assessment type, not the number of credits for the course. Finally, the CPL fee is non-refundable; if CPL is not awarded, the fee will not be applied towards course tuition.