Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to earn college credit for skills and knowledge they’ve already gained through work experience, military service, industry certifications, volunteer service, or other non-traditional learning. Instead of retaking material they already know, students can demonstrate their proficiency and apply it toward a degree or certificate.

How can CPL help me?

CPL can help you save time and money on your educational path. Students can now get credit for a course instead of just waiving a prerequisite.

How to Demonstrate Your Prior Learning

Students will be required to demonstrate proficiency in a course eligible for Credit for Prior Learning. Proficiency can be demonstrated by one or more of the options below. Where appropriate, proficiency will be determined by the discipline faculty. 

• Industry Certification or Created Portfolio or Military Credit Review
• Credit by Exam (CBE)
• AP, IB, CLEP Exam

How to submit a  Request for a CPL

Does CPL cost anything?

There is no cost for CPL, except for the Credit by Exam assessment method. Credit earned through the other assessment methods listed above are free to the student.

The Credit by Exam (CBE) cost is current tuition rates per unit for in-state, out-of-state, or international students depending on your student status. For current tuition rates per unit, see Tuitions & Fees.

NOTE: This CBE cost may be covered by Financial Aid. Units acquired by examination might not be applicable to meeting such unit load requirements as Selective Service deferment, Veteran’s Benefits, or Social Security Benefits.

If you are a Veteran with additional questions, contact vrc@deltacollege.edu 

Credit for Prior Learning Policies

• BP Policy 4235
• AP Policy 4235

Credit for Prior Learning Policy (AP Policy 4235) is a great resource to learn more about the different methods of assessment that San Joaquin Delta College accepts for Credit for Prior Learning.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) 
Approved Course List

Last Updated: Nov. 19, 2025