IV. Admission Information

Prior Learning Assessment

At the University of Guelph Campuses, Prior Learning Assessment is an acceptable process for assigning credit at the diploma level for learning stemming from experience acquired independently of courses taken at post-secondary institutions. P.L.A. provides a mechanism whereby credit is given for equivalence in a course to those students who have mastered the content of the course concerned without having taken a formal course in the subject area. Such mastery may have been acquired, for example, through work experience, independent study or from non-diploma courses. In the absence of a certificate or other formal acknowledgment of competence by an appropriately accredited institution, the student can challenge the appropriate specific course(s) offered by the University or Colleges to a maximum of 1.50 credits in a diploma program or 30% of the curriculum for Open Learning Certificates. This is a post admission process only.

Each academic department is responsible for determining which of its courses may be subject to P.L.A. challenge. The challenge process could include one or more assessment methods, including standardized tests, written and/or oral examinations, performance evaluations, interviews, and portfolio assessments. These assessments require that the individual demonstrate, to a qualified faculty member, that pre-determined knowledge and skills have been acquired.

Students should contact Undergraduate Program Services at the University or the Registrar's Office at the Campuses for application forms and further information. Refer to Prior Learning Assessment in Section VIII--Associate Diploma Regulations and Procedures for more information.