School of Continuing and Professional Studies > Academics > Prior Learning Assessment

Prior Learning Assessment

​​​Save money and graduate sooner with a Prior Learning Assessment!

You can earn credit for college-level learning that comes from your lived experiences. The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process helps you demonstrate your learning and apply for credit. The PLA process may help you graduate sooner, and save you money since the PLA processing fee is only $300, significantly lower than tuition.  

We're here to help

We recognize that your previous experience is valuable–in more ways than one. PLAs can help you apply that experience towards the completion of your degree, and our advisors are here to help you every step of the way.

You can email us directly at SCPSPLA@depaul.edu, or click the link below ​to fill out our contact form and one of our PLA advisors will reach out to you to get the process started.


Get in touch

How can you earn credit for your past experience through a PLA?

We offer a number of options for earning PLA credit so you can find the route that best fits your experience. 

  • Course Match PLA Projects: Earn course credit by matching learning from your professional and personal experience to an existing SCPS course.
  • Pre-approved PLA: Earn credit for professional certificates and credentials on a pre-approved list.
  • ACE Credit: Earn credit for trainings, learning experiences, and credentials as evaluated by the American Council on Education (ACE).
  • College Level Examination Program (CLEP):  Earn credit by taking subject matter exams offered by the College Board.
  • ACE Military Credit: Earn credit for certain military experiences and trainings.

Hear from students like you

PLA projects are a great way to sing your own praises and earn credit for knowledge you already have.

Robert A., BA in Professional Studies (Business Administration)


Robert A. SCPS alum 

Through the PLA process, DePaul gave me a vehicle in which to leverage my experience to gain academic credit.

Anntoinette T., BA in Professional Studies (Business Administration)

Anntoinette T. SCPS alum  

PLA projects can be an important part of accomplishing your goal.

Roxanne W., BA in Professional Studies (Business Administration)

Roxanne W. SCPS alum 


Read their stories

Have any questions?

Head on over to our FAQ page for answers to commonly asked questions, or get in touch with our PLA advisors to learn more about how the PLA process can help you achieve your academic goals. Click the button below to get the conversation started.

Get in touch