Prior Learning Assessment

What Is Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)?

An opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge in a number of content areas for course credit. Lone Star College faculty assess employment, industry certification/licenses, non-credit workforce training, workplace training, exams and military service for content matches to available courses. Students benefit from lower costs and avoid repetition of material mastered outside the traditional college experience.

How Does It Work?

1. Students meet with an advisor to request a credit assessment 
2. Advisors/Counselors verify eligibility and submit assessment requests for evaluation
3. If students meet all eligibility criteria, credit is awarded

PLA Criteria and Student Guidelines

Criteria

1. Must not request prior learning assessment (PLA) credit for previously taken or attempted courses
   • Previously Taken - Record of the course appears on  LSCS or transferring institution transcript
   • Attempted - Course dropped after official day resulting in a “W” on the transcript
2. Meet all LSCS admissions and TSI requirements
3. Enrolled or registered for the next LSCS semester
4. Complete six hours of LSCS, non-developmental credit prior to receiving PLA credit.  Exception: Veteran and active duty military students applying for KINE 1111 credit only
5. Meet eligibility requirements specific to the PLA option
6. Provide official documentation (transcripts, license/certification, etc.) supporting the request for PLA credit

Guidelines

1. Requests must be processed with an LSCS advisor or counselor 
2. Core credit through PLA may be earned only through challenge examinations and specific articulated continuing education courses.  Exception: KINE 1111 credit through PLA by ACE is available for veteran and active duty military students
3. PLA credit is only awarded when it applies to the Lone Star College System program(s) of study
4. PLA credit posts as "CR"  on transcripts
5. Other academic institutions may not accept PLA credit awarded through Lone Star College System. Students are responsible for verifying credit acceptance with the receiving institution before deciding to pursue PLA credit
6. Students must complete 50% of credit certificate or associate degree coursework at Lone Star College System. See an advisor for information on how PLA and transfer credit may impact LSCS graduation
7. If necessary, pay assessment fees at the campus business office

Fees for PLA