IUP Graduate Prior Learning Assessment Credit (PLA)
If you are enrolled in a degree program at IUP, you may be able to earn graduate credit for what you've learned through employment, independent certificate training or specialized certifications, or personal education. You may earn graduate credit for prior learning assessment by developing portfolio(s) that document your learning as it relates to specific courses. The prior learning must be equivalent to what would otherwise be achieved through coursework at the University.
The School of Graduate Studies and Research administers the prior learning assessment process. Students submit a one-time, nonrefundable application fee and nonrefundable department evaluation fee, and the portfolio(s) documenting their prior learning. Before you apply, review the PLA instructional guide and discuss your plans with your program coordinator, your advisor and the department chair and faculty in the appropriate academic area(s). These individuals may help you be successful in your pursuit of credit.
Please allow approximately 30-45 days from the time you submit your portfolio for the evaluation process to be completed prior to the end of the term and/or your graduation.
Charges
Application Fee: $25 (non-refundable, prior to evaluation)
| One Department Evaluation | $100 (nonrefundable, prior to evaluation) |
|---|---|
| Each Additional Department Evaluation | $50 (nonrefundable, prior to evaluation) |
| Approved PLA Fee Per Credit | $258 per credit (PA resident, 2020-21 rate) $387 per credit (non PA resident, 2020-21 rate) |
Application and department evaluation fees are due prior to the portfolio submission and are non-refundable. These fees (application and department evaluation fees) can be paid online through IUP Marketplace. Once you pay those fees and submit the portfolio, you will receive a signature page to complete. The School of Graduate Studies and Research will route the portfolio, signed signature page, and Department Evaluation Decision form to the appropriate department(s) for evaluation. The PLA credit(s), if approved, will be posted to the student's transcript as a course after the per credit fee is paid in full and processed.