Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

What is PLA?

The University of Memphis recognizes that learning occurs in many places. Therefore, we allow students to earn credit for prior learning by demonstrating college-level knowledge they have gained outside the classroom using a variety of methods known as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) outlined below. 

Credit By Exam

Credit by examination is awarded based upon standardized examinations and upon examinations administered by departments of the University for specific courses and for placement.

CLEP - The University of Memphis awards credit for standardized examinations of the College-Level Examination Program of the College Board. Credit awarded is based upon credit recommendations and minimum scores recommended by the American Council on Education.  For fees, testing dates and a list of exam options Testing Center. 

DSST -The University of Memphis awards credit for standardized examinations of the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests. Credit awarded is based upon credit recommendations and minimum scores recommended by the American Council on Education. For fees, testing dates and for a list of exam options contact the Testing Center.

Departmental Examinations - Almost all courses in the undergraduate curriculum with the exception of those with laboratory, research, or performance requirements, are available for credit by examination.  For more information contact the appropriate college/department.

Advanced Placement (AP) - The University of Memphis participates in the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board.  Credit is awarded scores of 3, 4, or 5. For more information Click Here. 

International Baccalaureate - The University of Memphis recognizes students' participation in the International Baccalaureate Program and awards college credit  for completion of selected courses. Information on credit awarded is available by clicking here.

Credit By Portfolio Assessment

Students without pre-assessed learning experiences are able to seek academic credits by developing a portfolio. The portfolio serves as a reflective narrative of the student's previous learning experiences and includes supporting documentation. For additional information on portfolio assessment Click Here.

Licenses & Certificates

ELC Pre - Assessed - Certain professional and standardized training, licensure, and certification experiences whose content is equivalent to offerings from the UofM have been evaluated by faculty for credit hours. Examples of such education credit include Microsoft Certifications and Paramedics License. To review the current list of evaluated experiences, click here. 

Military Training and Experience

An official evaluation of armed services instruction is made after a student is admitted to the university. Credit awarded for completion of services schools will be governed by recommendations at the baccalaureate level from the current Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experience in the Armed Services from the American Council on Education.  For more information military guide