Prior Learning Assessment
Accelerate the completion of a degree or certificate by earning college credit through the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program. PLA provides students the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills they have acquired through military and professional experience, and through formal or on-the-job training. Students may earn up to 75% of their required coursework through PLA credit, saving time and money.
PLA Options for Earning College Credit
- Examination - Internal exams developed by LSC Faculty or external exams such as ACT, CLEP, and AVANT. Tests may be scheduled at a LSC Testing Center.
- Course Work - Courses completed through continuing education, high school, or a non-regionally accredited college may be eligible for credit.
- Military Service - Veteran Academic Advisors are available to assess military transcripts and assist with faculty evaluation of training for PLA credit, and provide assistance with other veteran benefits and services.
- Prior Experience - Knowledge and skills gained through employment or professional development are evaluated through a student portfolio.
- Licensure/Certifications - College credit may be awarded for state licensure and professional certifications such as EMT, LVN and Cosmetology.
- Workplace Training - Training/education and workplace exams evaluated by the American Council on Education.
The PLA Application Process
- Contact a campus PLA advisor (veteran advisor for military) and request a PLA eligibility and credit assessment.
- Provide official documentation (transcripts, license/certification, etc.) supporting the request for PLA credit, along with a completed PLA Application, and pay applicable fees (if required).
- Complete your examination or portfolio as applicable to your PLA pathway.
- Monitor your LSC student account for award of credit or contact your advisor to finalize the PLA Application process.
Follow the Student's Guide to PLA to ensure a successful PLA process. For more information on how to get started, contact LSC-PLA@LoneStar.edu.
Required Fees for PLA
| PLA Option | Fee |
|---|---|
| American Council on Education (ACE) Transcript Evaluation | No Fee |
| Continuing Education Articulation | No Fee |
| External Challenge Exam | Fee may apply* |
| High School Articulation Credit/Advanced Technical Credit | No Fee |
| Internal Challenge Exam | $25 per exam |
| Military Transcript Evaluation | No Fee |
| Non-Regionally Accredited College or University Transcript Evaluation | $25 per transcript |
| Portfolio Credit | $60 per portfolio |
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*A fee of $25 per assessment will be charged for any additional faculty evaluation needed. |
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