Academic Information

Credit for Prior Learning

Many students have knowledge gained through training, testing, or prior learning experiences. You may have the opportunity to earn college credit through a variety of options.

CAEL – Prior Learning Assessment Option

If you have acquired learning through employment, entrepreneurship, training, civic activities, volunteer work, hobbies, travel or the military, you may be interested in Cape Cod Community College’s partnership program with the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning. CAEL is a leader in Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). PLA is used by some colleges and universities nationwide to determine whether learning acquired outside the classroom is at the college level and equates learning to college credits.

For more information: Receive Credit for Life Experience

Advanced Placement Credit (AP)

Students who score three or better on the College Board Advanced Placement Examinations may be granted college credit. An official score report must be sent to the Registrar.

For further information, call 774.330.4543, or stop by the Student Readiness Office in Grossman Commons, Room 204.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The College-Level Examination Program offers you the opportunity to receive college credits for what you already know by earning qualifying scores on any of the 33 exams. If you have acquired comprehensive subject knowledge through independent or prior study, on-the-job training, or cultural pursuits, these exams allow you to show that you have the understanding of college-level material. The examination results are used by colleges to award credit to entering and adult students completing their education.

For more information: College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)

VALOR Act – Academic Credit Evaluation Policy

In accordance with the Valor Act, Cape Cod Community College uses the ACE guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experience in the Armed Services as the primary method for evaluating and awarding academic credit for military occupation, training, coursework, and experience. In addition, the College also evaluates CLEP, DANTES Subject Standard Test, and prior learning assessment.

Questions related to the transfer of military credits can be directed to the Office of the Registrar, or visit VALOR Act Academic Credit Evaluation Policy