Prior Learning Assessment
Purpose
Keuka College recognizes the value of students' prior learning and previous academic achievements. The College is committed to providing clear, accessible information regarding the evaluation and awarding of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) through either Credit for Prior Learning or the Course Challenge process. This policy establishes the principles, criteria, and procedures used to evaluate learning acquired through non-traditional educational experiences and to determine the applicability of such credit toward degree requirements.
Policy
Keuka College recognizes that college-level learning may occur through a variety of educational and experiential pathways, including prior coursework, professional employment, military service, independent scholarship, extensive travel, volunteer activities, standardized examinations, and other structured or unstructured learning experiences. To acknowledge and validate these diverse forms of learning, the College may award academic credit for demonstrated college-level knowledge and competencies that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of Keuka College courses.
The College evaluates Prior Learning Assessment submissions and opportunities for Credit for Prior Learning and Course Challenge in accordance with established academic standards and institutional procedures.
Credit awarded through these processes may be applied toward degree requirements, including Field Period® requirements where appropriate. In combination with transfer credits, prior learning assessment credits may not exceed 90 credits for undergraduate students. Graduate students are limited to a 1/3 of the degree requirements, unless otherwise specific by the major.
Students will receive information regarding credit evaluation criteria, review procedures, credit-award decisions, and available appeal processes when credit is denied. Denied requests or credit denial for Credit for Prior Learning and/or Course Challenge may be appealed to the Provost or designee based on violation of process.
Procedures
The following requirements must be considered prior to submitting or approving a Prior Learning Assessment request:
- Only enrolled Keuka College students may request a Prior Learning Assessment.
- Professionally accredited programs may not be able to accept Prior Learning Assessment for major requirements or prerequisite courses. Students in professionally accredited programs should speak with the relevant Division Chair about their options.
- Requests for Prior Learning Assessment will not be awarded for high-school coursework with the exception of College approved articulation agreements.
- Students may not apply for Prior Learning Assessment for a course they have previously failed, are currently enrolled in, or have already completed.
- If Prior Learning Assessment is approved, it will be applied as transfer credit. Note: Transfer credit is not included in GPA calculations.
- Students interested in pursuing Credit for Prior Learning or Course Challenge should contact the Provost’s Office.
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2026-2027 Updates
Changed name of policy