Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is college credit awarded for validated college-level skills and knowledge gained outside of a college classroom. CPL is not awarded for knowledge and skills already assessed and credit awarded, through formal education at regionally accredited in-state and out-of-state institutions. Credit may be earned by students who satisfactorily pass an authorized assessment, including evaluation of approved external standardized examinations (AP, IB, CLEP, DLPT) and institutional Credit by Examination (CBE). Students may demonstrate proficiency in a course eligible for CPL and receive college credit through the approved alternative methods for awarding credit listed below:

  • Achievement of a satisfactory score on an Advanced Placement (AP) examination
  • Achievement of a satisfactory score on a high-level International Baccalaureate (IB) examination
  • Achievement of a satisfactory score on the College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
  • Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT)
  • Satisfactory completion of an institutional examination, known as Credit by Examination (CBE), administered by the college faculty in lieu of completion of an active course listed in the current college catalog

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) eligibility requires that:

  • The student is in good standing, with a g.p.a. of 2.0 or better, in the San Mateo County Community College
    District (SMCCCD)
  • The student is currently enrolled in a college in SMCCCD.
  • The student has a current Student Education Plan (SEP) on file at their home campus.
  • The course requested for CPL is listed in the current SMCCCD college catalog.
  • The student is not currently enrolled in the course requested for CPL.

Credits earned from Prior Learning do not satisfy unit load requirements for enrollment status for programs such as financial aid, athletics, veterans’ benefits, or for graduation residency requirements. Credits earned from Prior Learning do not count toward determining the 12 semester hours of credits earned in residence as required for an associate degree.