Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) at Bristol is credit awarded to students who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills needed to pass a course, whether that be through work, training, military experience or other non-academic activities.

Bristol honors the skills a student has learned outside the classroom by awarding college credit for certain courses and shortening time to graduation.

CPL is different from students taking Advanced Placement (AP) tests in high school. If you took AP exams, please send your final exam scores to the Admissions Office to get credit.

CPL allows Bristol students to: 

1. Graduate faster
2. Save money on tuition and fees
3. Work with faculty members in their field of experience, creating connections and expanding their knowledge

Earning CPL

There are many ways that students can demonstrate the skills needed to earn CPL:

Credential Review – Certifications and licenses from approved organizations may count for college credit.

Credit By Examination – You can earn college credit by taking an exam for certain courses. A passing score shows you’ve met the course requirements. Bristol has two different types of CPL exams:

• Challenge Exam: An exam developed by Bristol faculty that, when passed, shows the demonstrated knowledge needed to earn college credit in a Bristol-specific class.
• CLEP Exam: A nationally standardized exam that, when passed, shows the demonstrated knowledge needed to earn college credit. These exams are accepted at many colleges and universities.

CLEP Exam Scheduling and Information

Credit by Portfolio – A portfolio is a collection of documents that show competence in a skill. The portfolio is reviewed by a faculty member and then college credit is awarded based on their recommendation. 

Any student may explore CPL options. MassReconnect students may be eligible for more CPL opportunities based on their work experience.

Use this table to determine what Bristol courses are eligible for CPL and what the requirements for earning credit are. Current students may also use the CPL Self-Assessment Tool (requires myBristol login).

Keep in mind

1. You are required to take a minimum of credits at Bristol to meet our residency requirement. This is considered 25% of an associate degree (~15 credits) or 50% of a certificate.
2. CPL is currently awarded as a “T” grade on your transcript, which is not always transferable to a 4-year college or university. If you plan to transfer to a 4-year institution, contact their admissions office to confirm if the CPL will be accepted for that course. 

Start your CPL journey today!

EMAIL FOR CPL OPPORTUNITIES