Credit for Prior Learning

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a process that involves the identification, documentation, assessment and recognition for credit of learning previously acquired. This may include work and life experiences, previous postsecondary education and training, independent study, volunteerism, travel, and hobbies. Application of this policy is limited to learning that is not recognized through the normal credit transfer mechanism established between postsecondary institutions.


Apply for PLAR:

Students currently active in the Early Childhood Education Administrative Leadership program may apply for PLAR in two ways:

  1. Submitting an In-Semester PLAR application, on a course by course basis, when registering for a course in the semester in which it is being offered.
  2. Submitting a Comprehensive PLAR application. This process allows for applying for multiple courses at the one time, in a semester in which the course is not offered.

PLAR Deadline Dates:

Fall 2023

  • In Semester PLAR applications must be submitted by: August 4, 2023.
  • Comprehensive PLAR applications must be submitted by: August 4, 2023.

Winter 2024

  • In Semester PLAR applications must be submitted by: November 17, 2023.
  • Comprehensive PLAR applications must be submitted by: November 17, 2023.

Intersession 2024

  • In Semester PLAR applications must be submitted by: March 22, 2024.
  • Comprehensive PLAR applications must be submitted by: March 22, 2024.

Please note:

  • Specific information on prior learning (e.g., other courses taken, relevant work experiences, workshops attended) relevant to the course must be provided in order for a PLAR application (In-Semester or Comprehensive PLAR) to be accepted. The faculty assessor determines whether an application for PLAR is accepted, and if an application is accepted, determines which methods are used to assess for PLAR.

  • Current learners will be permitted to submit PLAR applications for any courses in the program (with the exception of EE3050 and EE3055) for which they believe they have already acquired the appropriate level of knowledge and skills.

  • Credits awarded for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition will be recorded on the learner transcript as an exemption or as a mark.

  • There will be no charge for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for learners who are enrolled in a College program. The maximum number of credits that can be awarded through the Prior Learning Assessment process is 75% of the number required to complete the advanced diploma.


Information and Forms

Below is the information and the forms you will need to apply for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition:



Advanced Standing

Learners may receive advanced standing for up to 75% of the content of the program to which they have been admitted on the basis of successful completion of this content in the same or similar programs at another college and as assessed by the college.

Applicants who wish to be considered for advanced standing should submit an application with the following documents:

  1. Proof of program completion;
  2. Official transcript(s);
  3. Calendar description of the courses claimed for credit.

Learners seeking advanced standing will not be excused from any course(s) until written authority has been received from the Office of the Registrar.


Exemption Status

Exemption status is granted if the course has a minimum of 70% equivalency in the course material required. When exemption status is awarded, no mark is reported on the transcript. The college will consider exemptions for courses if the learner received a passing grade in the course.

The college will accept any course from a recognized post-secondary institution as an exemption if the course can match 70% of the objectives listed in the current course outline.

Application for Exemption/Credit Transfer



Contact Us

For any questions regarding course selection or questions relating to the academic side of the ECE Administrative Leadership program, please contact:

Lori Chaulk, Associate Dean ECE
Email: lori.chaulk@cna.nl.ca
Phone: (709) 758-7379

Carla Conway, Instructional Coordinator
Email: carla.conway@cna.nl.ca
Phone: (709) 793-4470
Fax: (709) 758-7575