Prior Learning Assessment

What is Prior Learning Assessment?

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) gives students the opportunity to earn college credits for learning through work experience, military, life experience, industry credentials and non-traditional schooling. The key of any prior learning experience is not the experience itself but the learning that has taken place. Many students come to college having experiences through work, community service, and service in the military. PLA allows students to accelerate their degree, avoid the repetition of coursework and save money.

Types of PLA

Credit for Life Experience

Industry Recognized Credentials

Students may receive college credit for industry recognized credentials earned through work or other experiences. A list of current credit is listed below. If you have credentials not listed on this list you will need to meet with a faculty member or college Dean to see if you will receive credit.

Military Credit

Current and veteran military service members are eligible to submit their military transcripts for possible course credit. To see if you are eligible for college credit, students must send their military transcripts to the TSCC records office. The Records Office will review the transcript and award credit for appropriate courses.

JST Eligibility and Access

Military members in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard who are active duty, reserve duty or veterans are eligible for the JST.

To have an official copy of your transcript sent to the College, follow these steps to obtain and access your JST:

  • Register for an account
  • Click on the “Transcripts” link and view, print or save your unofficial transcripts
  • You can also click on “Official Transcript Request” and complete the form to have your official transcripts sent to your desired institution at no cost

Air Force members should contact the Community College of the Air Force for transcripts. You can order an official transcript through the Air University or the CCAF Online Transcript System (accessed only on a .mil issued computer).

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