Frequently Asked Questions

What is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)?

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows you to earn college credit for knowledge and skills you’ve gained outside the classroom—such as work experience, military service, training programs, or independent learning.

How do I get started?

Visit our Apply To CPL web page to learn more about the first steps involved in requesting credit for prior learning.

Learn More About How To Apply

Eligibility & Courses

Which courses offer CPL?

Not all courses offer CPL.

👉View the CPL Course List (link) to see available options.

If your course isn’t listed, you can still submit the Interest Form to explore possibilities.

What types of prior learning (experience) count?

To find out what types of prior learning experience count towards CPL, please visit our Eligibility web page.

What if I have experience but don’t see my area listed?

You may still have options!

Meet with an Academic Counselor to explore:

Future CPL opportunities
Alternative pathways

CPL Process

How does the process work?

Visit our How to Apply web page to learn more about how the CPL process works.

What if I already talked to a professor?

If a faculty member has already evaluated your experience, they will complete the CPL Assessment Form for you.

👉You do NOT need to submit the Interest Form.

What are the different types of CPL forms?

CPL Interest Form – Completed by you to start the process
CPL AP Request Form – Used to request AP course equivalency
CPL Assessment Form – Completed by faculty to finalize credit (coming soon)

What happens if I don’t pass the assessment?

If you do not successfully complete the assessment, you can still enroll in and complete the course through traditional instruction.

Can I appeal a decision?

Yes. You may follow the college’s standard grade appeal process.

Credit, Grades, & Costs

Does CPL cost anything?

No. There are currently no CPL fees (as of February 2026).

Will CPL count toward my grade?

Yes, if approved:

You earn actual course credit (not just a waiver)
It may apply to degrees, certificates, or transfer (depending on the course and institution)

👉 Always check with a counselor to be sure it fits your education plan.

Is there a limit on CPL units?

No. However, CPL credit is subject to College of the Canyons policies and program requirements.

Meet with a counselor to understand how CPL applies to your specific degree, certificate, or transfer goals.

Does CPL count for residency?

No. CPL does not count toward residency requirements for a degree at College of the Canyons.

Will CPL affect my GPA?

Usually, CPL is recorded as Pass/No Pass and does not affect your GPA.

A letter grade may be given for:

Credit by exam
Portfolio assessments
Noncredit to Credit (mirrored) courses

How does CPL appear on my transcript?

Your transcript will show that the credit was earned through prior learning assessment

What is not eligible for CPL?

Credit previously awarded by another college or university cannot be re-evaluated for CPL.

Transfer & Special Situations

Can I transfer CPL credit?

It depends on the receiving institution. Some colleges and universities accept CPL credit, while others may have limitations.

👉 Always check with your transfer school and a counselor regarding how CPL credit will be evaluated.

Will other colleges accept CPL?

Acceptance varies by institution.

If you plan to transfer, check with your intended school regarding how CPL credit will be evaluated.

Are there special steps for military or veteran students?

Yes. Submit your official military transcripts (JST or CCAF) to the college.

What about high school students?

High school students may earn credit through:

Advanced Placement (AP) exams
Articulated high school courses
Other approved exams

I already received AP (Advanced Placement) credit for exams where I earned a score of 3, 4, or 5. Why would I request AP Equivalency?

AP scores are automatically applied as general credit.

You can request AP equivalency if you want your AP exam to count as a specific COC course. If approved, your transcript will show the equivalent course as completed in the semester when you request AP equivalency.

⚠️ Important: This may affect transfer to a university in some cases. You should always consult with a counselor before submitting an AP Equivalency request.

CPL Frequently Asked Questions