Turning AP Scored into Credit
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
Alvin Community College recognizes the benefits of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) in helping students reach their goals in a more efficient way. Additionally, the College is cognizant of the diverse ways in which students obtain knowledge and skills outside of the traditional classroom setting. The primary goal of PLA is to evaluate a student's knowledge and skill-set to be awarded college credit through alternative pathways such as national and local examinations, industry certifications and work experience, military training, articulation agreements and non-credit mirror course conversion. In addition, the PLA pathway accelerates certificate and degree completion for students that have met the learning objectives prior to entry into their program of choice.
Prior Learning Assessment Criteria (PLA)
- Student has successfully completed a minimum of 3 hours of ACC course work OR is currently enrolled after the census date of the requesting semester.
- PLA credit will only be awarded as it applies to a current ACC program of study.
- PLA is noted with a grade of "S" for the semester hour value and is not calculated in the institution grade point average (GPA).
- A maximum of 45 hours (75%) can be awarded for prior learning. These hours will not be counted toward residency credit, with the exception of ACC Continuing Education Mirror courses.
- Award of PLA at ACC does not guarantee transfer of such credit to other colleges and universities.
There is no charge for the transcription of AP, CLEP, IBD, DSST or Military PLA credit.
To get started:
- Visit with the ACC Dual Enrollment Advisor at your high school to discuss PLA opportunities.
- Download your AP student score report from College board.
- Complete the ACC Credit by National Exam form with your ACC Dual Enrollment Advisor. Your advisor will submit the form to our Registrar's office for you.