Institutional CPL Best Practices

​The American Council on Education (ACE) regularly publishes guidance for colleges and universities looking to implement high-quality credit for prior learning (CPL) programs. Below, find some guidelines and resources to help institutions recognize valid learning from a variety of experiences to support adult learner success.


Credit for Prior Learning Implementation Matrix
Credit for Prior Learning Implementation Matrix
Credit for prior learning (CPL), also known as prior learning assessment, has become more salient in current conversations on postsecondary attainment than ever before. Given renewed and broad interest in prior learning initiatives, ACE developed a mat...
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Credit for Prior Learning: Charting Institutional Practice for Sustainability
Credit for Prior Learning: Charting Institutional Practice for Sustainability
​Learn the theory, strategy, and process to create pathways for studen​ts that take advantage of what the have already learned to increase persistence to degree and improve college affordability.
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2017 Joint Statement on the Transfer and Award of Credit
2017 Joint Statement on the Transfer and Award of Credit
A guide for institutions designing policies for transfer and award of credit developed in 2017 by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, the American Council on Education, and the Council for Higher Education Accredi...
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In addition, the Council for Adult and Experien​​tial Learning (CAEL) provides expert advice and programs to help adult learners succeed, including prior learning assessment programs and resources for colleges and universities interested in investing in adult student success. Visit CAEL's​ website​ for additional information. 


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