College GalleryPrior Learning Assessment and Recognition
A formal evaluation and recognition of the skills and knowledge applicants have, regardless of how or where these skills were obtained (e.g., through informal education or training, paid or unpaid work experience, volunteer work, life experience).
How to request PLAR?
+Once you have been accepted to your program, complete the NLC-RO192 form and make a payment of 50% tuition for the course you would like assessed, email confirmation of payment to transfer@northernlakescollege.ca along with any required supporting documents. Ensure that you submit the documents before your programs add/drop date.
When to request PLAR?
+You have until the add/drop date which is 14 calendar days from the start of your program, for terms greater than 10 weeks and 7 calendar days from the start of your program, for terms that are 10 weeks or less.
What is the processing time?
+The average processing time for PLAR requests is four to six weeks.
How will the PLAR be assessed?
+1. The method of assessment will vary based on the course for which PLAR is being requested. The assessment will ensure learning outcomes for the course have been met through experiential learning.
A. PLAR assessments may include, but are not limited to:
I. Portfolio assessment,
II. Examination and/or assignment,
III. Skills or lab assessment,
IV. Letter from employer.
2. The student is responsible to provide all required documentation and evidence for assessment of prior learning.
3. Documents and evidence submitted for the purpose of assessment will be considered confidential and will be used for the purpose of the specified PLAR assessment only.
4. The College has an established residency requirement which varies by program. PLAR cannot exceed residency requirements.
5. While recognized by the College, other institutions may not recognize PLAR.
Evaluation of PLAR
+- The student’s submission of PLAR documents will be reviewed by the appropriate program area. The program area will determine if the course is ineligible for PLAR assessment.
- A grade of “P” is assigned by the Office of the Registrar when PLAR has been granted. This grade is not calculated within the grade point average (GPA).
- The Office of the Registrar will communicate the decision to the student by email.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Challenge Exams
+What is a challenge exam? A challenge is ideal when a student believes they have the skills or knowledge relevant to a specific course, but they do not have the course completed.
Challenges may take the form of assignments, a comprehensive exam, projects and the like, but must measure the learning outcomes expected of a successful course completer. The program area determines the form the challenge will take.
How do I request a challenge exam? Requests for challenges are made to the Program. The Program Chair determines if a challenge is permitted.
When should I submit the request for a challenge? If enrolled in the course, the student must request a challenge prior to the 75% refund date. Current students may request to challenge courses they are not enrolled in at any time.
What can I do if I don’t agree with the PLAR assessment?
+Students have a right to appeal, appeals are submitted in writing to StudentAppeals@northernlakescollege.ca within seven calendar days of the transfer credit email notification and must include evidence of why the original decision should be reconsidered. You will receive a response to your appeal within 5 business days of your appeal date.