Turn Your Life Experience into College Credit

Save time and money on your degree by earning credit for what you already know.

Prior learning credit recognizes the knowledge and skills you’ve gained outside the classroom—through work, military service, certifications, or life experiences. It’s a faster, smarter way to earn your degree. If you’re thinking about becoming an online degree completion student and you may have prior learning experience, Prior Learning Credit may be a great option for you!

Examples of Eligible Experiences:

  • Professional Training or Certifications such as those acquired outside of an accredited college or university  
  • Military Training and experience 
  • On-the-job skills 
  • Volunteer work 
  • Independent study 

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Why Choose Prior Learning Credit?

  • Save Time: Graduate faster by skipping courses you already know. 
  • Save Money: Reduce tuition costs by earning credit for experience. 
  • Recognize Your Achievements: Get credit for the hard work you’ve already done. 
  • Personalized for Your Learning: Your prior learning assessment is based on  your unique experiences. 
  • Advance Your Career: Earn your degree and open new doors for growth 

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Get Started Today!

  • Apply to UOlivet – Submit your application and take the first step toward earning credit for your experience. 
  • Submit Proof of Learning Portfolio – Provide documentation like your resume, certifications, or an employment verification letter (varies by program). 
  • Connect with Us – Meet a UOlivet representative to explore how your experiences can count toward college credit. 
  • Enroll & Share Your Story – Register for a Prior Learning Credit Course (IDS 499 or IDS 699, depending on if you are an undergraduate or graduate student), upload your documents, and write a brief paper on the skills and knowledge you’ve gained. You must pay this one-credit course’s online tuition rate.  
  • Earn Credit for Your Experience – Receive credit hours that recognize the expertise you already have. 

 

Questions? If you have any questions about Credit for Prior Learning, please contact us at UOlivetOnline@UOlivet.edu. 

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FAQs

Is credit for prior learning experiences available to both undergraduate and graduate students?

Yes, undergraduate as well as graduate-level students may take advantage of credit for prior learning.  

What are the maximum number of credits that may be earned for prior learning experiences?

  • Undergraduate students may qualify for up to 30 credits 
  • Graduate students may qualify for up to 12 credits 

How is Military credit assigned?

The American Council on Higher Education (ACE) assigns military credit. For more information, please refer to the ACE Military Guide.  

What exams or training may count for prior learning credit?

  • Exams – high school AP exams, College-Level Examination Program (CLEP),  
  • Courses – Sophia.com, LinkedIn Learning, Study.com 
  • Certifications – non-academic training, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google, etc. 

How do prior learning credits affect my grade point average (GPA)?

Since prior learning credits are simply credit, they are not graded; you are simply granted a specific number of credit hours toward the completion of your degree. 

Can I use financial aid to pay for the credit for prior learning course (IDS 499 or IDS 699)?

Yes, if you are awarded a financial aid package, you may use it toward course payment. 

What if I feel the evaluation was incorrect?

If you feel you should receive more credit than were granted by UOlivet, you may send us a written appeal so long as it is received within three months from the date of the decision. 

Visit Olivet

320 S. Main Street
Olivet, MI 49076

 

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