Get credit for what you already know! Skills and knowledge gained through the previous school, work or life experiences may earn course credit.

Transfer of Credit and Prior Learning Assessments are two key terms in Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).

Transfer of Credit

Transfer of Credit grants credit after submitting documented learning, which may include the following:

  • Transcripts
  • Score reports
  • Certificates

There are no fees for the transfer of credit

Prior Learning Assessments

Prior Learning Assessments grant credit after completing a course assessment using a challenge exam, portfolio, or skills demonstration. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) fees apply.

Steps to Earn Credit for Prior Learning (CPL):

  1. Submitting transcripts and other documented learning for transfer of credits based on courses that have been previously evaluated by Madison College.
  2. Requesting evaluation for documented learning that has not been previously approved (or rejected) for transfer of credit, including special categories of learning, such as licenses and community-based trainings.
  3. When a transfer of credit is not approved, students can demonstrate their ability by signing up for and completing a prior learning assessment.

Each step above can take considerable time, so students are encouraged to begin the CPL process early.

It is best to complete these steps before signing up for classes in the first semester. However, students can complete steps, especially prior learning assessments, at any point in their academic journey.

The Four Streams of Prior Learning

There are four ‘streams’ of prior learning corresponding to commonly-used categories. It's important to review each, because one or all may apply to you:

All Students and High School Transfer

  • High school classes meeting college course prerequisites
  • College credits earned through High School Dual Credit, Advanced Standing or other coursework
  • Advanced Placement (AP) and other college credit examinations
  • World Languages Retroactive Credits

See High School CPL

Returning Adults and College Transfer

  • Previous college or university credits earned outside of Madison College
  • International college or university credits
  • Professional licenses, certifications, professional badges or micro-credentials

See Returning Adult and College Transfer CPL

Military Transcripts

  • Credit for training, occupations and years of service

See Military Transcripts

Prior Learning Assessments

Demonstrate your prior learning through one of the three assessment options, depending on the course:

  • Challenge Exam
  • Portfolio
  • Skills Demonstration

See Prior Learning Assessments

Prior Learning Recommendations and Guidelines

Recognizable credits may meet admission, enrollment, or program requirements. Work with your faculty or academic advisors to understand the implications of credits awarded through a transfer of credit or prior learning assessments.

CPL credits may account for up to 75 percent of requirements toward a degree and up to 50 percent of requirements toward a certificate.

CPL will not affect your Madison College GPA, as CPL credits will show a grade of "T" on your transcripts.

CPL credits are specific to Madison College. We cannot guarantee other colleges will award credit similarly. Contact the college or university where you want the transfer or use Transferology to explore how your credits may transfer into Madison College versus other colleges and universities.

See Transfer Student Services when exploring transfer to other colleges and universities.