Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

The Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process offers you the opportunity to have your learning and work experience assessed and appropriate credit granted.

At UFV, there are several methods of documenting and demonstrating that your prior learning is equivalent to that which normally would be acquired through formal study in the public post-secondary system. Credits obtained through prior learning do not meet UFV program residency requirements.

Common PLAR methods are course challenge and portfolio. Please contact Susan Brown, PLAR Coordinator, at 604-851-6342 for more information about these two options.

1) Course challenge

A course challenge is a method of obtaining credits through a specifically arranged process, by which you demonstrate mastery of the objectives of a course without actually taking the course. UFV uses a wide range of challenge methods. The choice of method will depend on the course you challenge. For example, you may be asked to demonstrate your mastery by written exam, written assignment(s), project, oral interview, samples of your work, or other means. Not all UFV courses can be challenged. Regulations related to course challenge are outlined in the Registration section of this calendar. The fee for a course challenge is 75% of the regular tuition fee.

2) Portfolio assessment

An academic portfolio can be used to challenge multiple courses or a program. In an academic portfolio you identify, articulate, and document your learning using a paper-based or electronic portfolio format. Portfolio sections can include a short autobiography, a paper outlining your educational and career goals, statements that describe your prior learning, and documentation that serves as evidence of your learning in the subject area in which you want to be assessed. Your completed portfolio is submitted to the appropriate faculty member for assessment.

To help you prepare a portfolio which is acceptable for assessment, UFV also offers a credit course (ADED 200) in which you develop your portfolio. Susan Brown, PLAR Coordinator in Assessment Services, can also help you develop your portfolio and is available to answer your questions as needed.

The UFV official transcript will indicate the number of credits derived through the portfolio assessment process. Credits awarded through portfolio assessment will not necessarily be transferable to other programs or institutions.

Normally, no more than 25 percent of the credits required in a program will be awarded for learning which is demonstrated and documented in a portfolio.

This PLAR option presently is available for some, but not all, UFV courses and programs. The fee for this method is 75% of the regular tuition fees up to 12 credits. A lower rate may be used for more than 12 credits.

Contact Susan Brown, PLAR Coordinator in Assessment Services, at 604-851-6342 or susan.brown@ufv.ca to learn more about how PLAR can work for you.