Credit for Prior Learning at NU
Your experience matters at NU
What Is Credit for Prior Learning?
At National University, we believe learning doesn’t only happen in a classroom. Through credit for prior learning (CPL), you can earn college credit for the knowledge and skills you’ve gained through work, military service, training programs, or other real-life experiences. If your expertise aligns with NU’s courses, we’ll work with you to turn that experience into academic credit — saving you time and helping you move forward with confidence. Because your journey matters, and every step you’ve taken to get here counts.
Turning Experience Into Credit
Credit for prior learning (CPL) gives you the opportunity to earn academic credit for skills, training, and achievements you’ve already gained outside a traditional classroom. Whether from work, military service, or self-directed learning, your experience may help you move forward faster.
Here are some of the most common ways to earn CPL:
Industry-Based Credentials
Professional licenses or certifications — like those held by teachers, nurses, or IT professionals — may qualify for credit when they align with established NU course offerings.
Military Training and Service
Servicemembers and Veterans may earn credit based on ACE recommendations or a review of military training aligned with NU’s curriculum. If it maps to a course, we’ll work with you to award the credit you’ve earned.
Employer Training
Leadership programs or on-the-job training from employers like Southwest Airlines may count toward your degree if the learning outcomes align with NU course offerings.
Credit by Exam / Challenge by Exam
Already confident in a subject? Request to take an NU internal exam for possible course credit or waiver.
- Challenge by exam (for grads) can waive course requirements, helping you stay on track.
Fee: $50 - Credit by exam (for undergrads) lets you test out of a course and earn credit.
Fee: $100
Online Training Programs
Completed coursework through Sophia Learning or StraighterLine? These alternative providers offer college-level classes that may transfer into your NU program.
National Exams
You may be eligible for credit if you’ve passed recognized exams such as:
- IB (International Baccalaureate): Higher-level exams with scores of 5+ are considered for credit.
- CLEP (College-Level Examination Program)
- DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests)
- AP (Advanced Placement): Typically, a score of 3+ is required
Every step you’ve taken in life — every skill, every challenge overcome — may bring you closer to your degree. Let’s recognize your learning and help you move forward with purpose.
Why Credit for Prior Learning Matters
Move forward,
faster.
Get credit for the skills and knowledge you already have so you can spend more time learning something new, and less time repeating what you already know.
Cut costs, not corners.
Every prior learning credit you earn can help reduce tuition and the number of classes you need to take, putting your goals within closer reach.
Honor your experience.
Your hard work matters. Whether it came from your job, military service, or life experience, we see it and we’re here to help it count.
How to Apply for Credit for Prior Learning
Applying for CPL at National University is a way to turn your real-world experience into academic credit — saving you time, money, and effort as you work toward your degree. Here’s a high-level look at how to get started:
Learn the Process
Start by reviewing the CPL guidelines so you understand what qualifies and how the process works. You’re encouraged to connect with your Academic and Finance Counselor (AFC) — they’re here to help you explore your eligibility and guide you every step of the way.
Gather Documentation
Collect any official documents that show what you’ve already learned — this might include training certificates, training materials, transcripts, reference letters, or proof of licensure. These need to come directly from the issuing organization and will help us match your learning to NU’s course offerings.
Submit Your Request
Students apply through the Student Portal using eForms. The process may look a little different depending on your background:
• Industry Credentials and Employer Training: Use the Nonacademic Evaluation Credit Request Form. Choose your training from the drop-down list or request a new review.
StraighterLine and Sophia Learning: Email official transcripts to the Registrar at [email protected].
• Military Training and Experience: Send your Joint Services Transcript or CCAF transcript to the Registrar. For specialized training, submit a CPL request through the portal.
• Credit by Exam or Challenge by Exam: Submit the exam request form via your portal. If approved, you’ll be contacted to schedule your exam.
• MA in Education (MAE) Students: Email Dr. Thomas Reynolds ([email protected]) to access and complete the program-specific CPL application. Your request will be reviewed by the School of Education’s committee.
Wait for Review
Once submitted, applications are typically reviewed within four to six weeks. If additional information is needed, the Registrar’s Office will reach out.
See Your Credit Awarded
If approved, your credit will be posted to your NU transcript. You’ll be able to view your updated progress in the student portal.
Every credit you earn for what you already know gets you one step closer to your goal. For detailed instructions and forms, visit the CPL Request Guide: Students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to earn academic credit for college-level knowledge and skills gained outside of the traditional classroom, such as through work, military training, certifications, or standardized exams.
To request CPL credit, you must be an admitted student at National University and have declared a degree or certificate program. Some CPL options may have additional eligibility criteria.
You may be eligible for CPL credit based on:
- Industry certifications or licenses
- Military training and experience
- Standardized exams like CLEP, DSST, AP, or IB
- Pre-approved online training (e.g., SOPHIA, StraighterLine)
- Faculty-reviewed learning from nontraditional programs
- Challenge/Credit by Exams offered by NU
The number of CPL credits you can earn depends on the type of credit and your degree program. Specific limits are outlined in the Credit for Prior Learning Manual or can be reviewed with your advisor.
To begin, meet with your Academic and Finance Counselor (AFC). They’ll help you determine if CPL is a good fit, explain what documentation you need, and guide you through the request process.
While there are no fees to apply for requesting CPL, there may be fees associated with exams and coursework. Your advisor can provide details based on the type of CPL you’re pursuing.
Review times vary depending on the type of CPL and required documentation. Faculty-reviewed submissions typically take longer than standardized credit evaluations. Your advisor can provide a timeline for your specific case.
Yes. Approved CPL credit will appear on your transcript and will not include a letter grade. It does not affect your GPA.
No. CPL credit must align with established NU course offerings. Not all learning experiences will qualify for credit.
You can visit the CPL webpage, review the Credit for Prior Learning Manual, or contact your Academic and Finance Counselor more information.