Advanced Standing Credit through Prior Learning Assessment

Oklahoma City Community College supports the concept of lifelong learning and knows
that learning takes place in many environments and in many different ways. Prior Learning
Assessment (PLA) is one method used to earn Advanced Standing Credit. It is a process
that allows adults to identify and demonstrate relevant learning acquired through
life and work experience and to translate that learning into college credit. PLA provides
for the identification and confirmation of past learning by systematically evaluating
the learning against established academic standards for awarding college credit. Credit
is only awarded for actual college-level learning, not for experience. The learning
must demonstrate a balance between theory and practical application. Faculty who are
subject matter experts will evaluate competency. All PLA credit is awarded with a
grade of “S.”

Exam-based PLA Credit (CLEP, AP, DSST)

OCCC will award credit for learning demonstrated by passing scores on formal exams
including, but not limited to, CLEP, AP, and DSST. Minimum passing scores are determined
by OCCC Academic Affairs. To receive credit, students must submit an official score
report to the Office of Records and Graduation Services. Credit will only be granted
for equivalent courses offered at OCCC. Credit will be posted after the student has
successfully completed twelve college-level credit hours at OCCC.

Military-based PLA

OCCC will award credit for learning demonstrated by military training and experience.
Credit will be granted for military activity that 1) has a credit recommendation outlined
by the American Council on Education and 2) has an equivalence to a course offered
at OCCC. To receive credit, students must submit an official transcript from their
military branch to the Office of Records and Graduation Services. Credit will be posted
after the student has successfully completed twelve college-level credit hours at
OCCC.

Other Forms of PLA

In some cases, students may be able to receive college credit for life and work experience.
Students may be asked to complete institutional exams or develop a portfolio to illustrate
their competencies. Students interested in learning more about this option should
contact the Office of Records and Graduation Services for a referral to the appropriate
process.