Recognition of Prior Learning

The Alberta government defines 3 types of learning, which are measured in different ways: 

1. Transfer credit: awarding credit at one institution for courses completed at another institution. 
2. Credential recognition: recognizing a completed in-province, out-of-province or international certificate, diploma or degree. 
3. Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR): assessing and recognizing a person’s knowledge and skills, awarding post-secondary credit for what you already know about your post-secondary program of study. A PLAR assessment may include one or a combination of the following: 
   • Written challenge exam 
   • Oral exam or interview 
   • Performance assessment 
   • Product assessment 
   • Portfolio assessment