Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

Experience matters. The University of Arkansas recognizes that some non-university learning meets U of A academic standards and can support student success by granting credit for prior learning. CPL can be applied AFTER a person has been accepted as a U of A student and has met the criteria set by the U of A and its academic departments.

What is Credit for Prior Learning?

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows eligible students to receive college credit for prior learning achieved outside the traditional college classroom, such as training courses, certifications, work or volunteer experience, or professional development programs. Students may demonstrate college-level learning from their professional, military and community experiences and, when appropriate, receive academic college credit. College credit is not guaranteed, but pathways are available.

• View Undergraduate CPL Policy
• View Graduate CPL Policy

CPL Pathways at the University of Arkansas

Review the U of A’s CPL policies and, if you are a current student, talk with your academic advisor to understand the benefits of CPL in helping you reach your academic goals. Your academic department will determine which non-credit learning courses and other experiences are eligible and what assessments may be necessary.

Paths include:

1. Credit after completing a CPL-eligible course or assessment and submitting a Credit for Prior Learning Form within five years from the date the assessment was successfully completed.
2. Credit Through National Testing Programs via approved national exams such as CLEP, AP, or IB.  Learn more about test-based credit
3. Credit for military schooling, training, and work history as documented on your Joint Services Transcript.  Learn more about military service credit
4. Credit through exams, assessments, or other equivalency determinations administered by academic departments at the University of Arkansas. Check with your academic department about CPL options. Learn more about existing credit equivalencies.

CPL Eligibility and Requirements

University and academic department policies and guidelines stipulate the conditions under which prior learning is eligible for college credit. Determinations will be made by the student’s academic program. This may involve industry certifications or other faculty-evaluated assessments.

• Credit appears as CR (Credit) on the transcript and does not affect GPA.
• Transcription fees: $30 per undergraduate credit hour and $50 per graduate credit hour.

In general, participants applying for CPL must:

1. Be admitted to the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.
2. Earn a minimum of three (3) credit hours with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
3. Submit a Credit for Prior Learning Form within five years from the date the assessment was successfully completed or complete academic department CPL requirements.

Finding Training Courses that Lead to Credit

Global Campus Professional & Workforce Development

Some non-credit professional courses offered through Global Campus Professional and Workforce Development (PWD) are designed in partnership with academic departments and may qualify students to apply for CPL.

The Global Campus Professional & Workforce Development team collaborates with University colleges and departments to create high-quality professional learning experiences that may align with for-credit coursework.

These programs help learners:

• Bridge professional training with academic study
• Demonstrate relevant, college-level learning
• Explore pathways toward certificates and degrees

View CPL-Eligible Professional Development Courses

Contact Information