Credit for Prior Learning. Earn Credit for What You Know.

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Students come to college with diverse backgrounds and experiences, many of which include learning equivalent to college-level coursework. Dallas College is dedicated to ensuring all learners have equal opportunities to have their knowledge and skills recognized and validated, including through accessible and high-quality pathways to a college degree.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), also referred to as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), is an academic process that allows students to earn college credit for learning gained outside the traditional classroom setting.

You already have the knowledge — just feel confident that you can do it.” View Tiffany’s story.
Tiffany Gardner
Dallas College Student

Complete the Credit for Prior Learning Form

Email us to get started at CPL@DallasCollege.edu.

Transfer Credits

Transfer credit is for learning that took place at another similarly accredited school before you enrolled at Dallas College.

Learn About Transfer Credits

Pre-Evaluated Learning

Pre-evaluated learning refers to systematized and standardized types of prior learning. Institutional approval is needed to accept credit recommendations from an organization in this category.

Learn About Pre-Evaluated Learning

Independent Learning

Individualized learning is most often a case-by-case assessment process. It involves the review, assessment, verification and credentialing of learning experiences gained outside the traditional classroom that do not fall into other categories.

Learn About Independent Learning

Email CPL@DallasCollege.edu

Updated August 12, 2025