Prior Learning Assessment
PLA allows students to demonstrate their knowledge in a number of disciplines and gain credit for courses offered at Lone Star College System, including internal and external challenge exams, portfolios, military transcripts, and external evaluations.
No more than 50% of the credits on a certificate program or associate's degree may be earned from Prior Learning Assessment methods. No more than fifteen (15) semester credit hours may be awarded from PLA by means other than recognized evaluative examinations. Students must complete 50% of a credit certificate program or at least 18 credits of an associate's degree with Lone Star College System credit courses to meet graduation requirements.
Please refer to the PLA Manual for a description of the PLA process and assessment methods:
PLA Manual for Students (PDF)
PLA Manual for Advisors (PDF)
See an advisor to complete all requests for credit through prior learning assessment. Information on PLA by High School Articulation can be found at the High School Articulation site.
