Credit for Prior Learning

Nearly seven million working Californian adults have yet to earn a college credential but already possess the knowledge needed to pass credit-bearing courses. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) honors that knowledge and allows working adults the credit they deserve to accelerate the completion of a college credential, opening doors to higher wage careers.

What is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)?

Credit for prior learning (CPL) is credit awarded when a student demonstrates sufficient mastery of the outcomes of a catalog course through an approved faculty assessment of prior learning. 

Awarding CPL

CPL may be awarded for course credit, general education area credit, and/or elective credit. CPL offers are subject to review and may be affected by many variables such as: Academic standing, residency requirements, educational goals, transfer plans, financial aid, veteran benefit eligibility, and college requirements. It is crucial that colleges provide guidance to students prior to accepting and transcribing CPL.

Chancellor’s Office Credit for Prior Learning Initiative

The Credit for Prior Learning Initiative (formerly the MAP Initiative supports California Community Colleges to build sustainable, equitable CPL programs for working adults, apprentices, and veterans, through the CPL Initiative team support, work groups and the MAP platform.

Review the CPL Initiative Fact Sheet. Contact map@rccd.edu with questions.

CPL Demonstration Project

To increase equitable college access, completion, and career attainment the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CO) is leading an effort to expand Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) opportunities across the state through three goals.

Contact Us

For general assistance, contact CPL@CCCCO.edu.