--- title: "PLAR FAQs" type: "wiki" space: "Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)" author: "Sonia Novello" created: 2024-05-07T23:53:03Z updated: 2026-10-26T18:37:36Z tags: ["plar"] url: "https://students.senecapolytechnic.ca/spaces/286/prior-learning-assessment-and-recognition-plar/wiki/view/14097/plar-faqs" --- # PLAR FAQs - PLAR Process - PLAR Assessment - PLAR and Transcripts - Length of PLAR Process - Fees - PLAR Course Load - Tuition and/or OSAP Impacts - Courses Eligible for PLAR - Course Outlines - Contact Us - Courses from Other Institutions - Appeals - Accommodations ##  PLAR Process  #### What does the PLAR process involve? Prior learning assessments are done on a course-by-course basis. If a candidate believes they have gained the required knowledge or skills through life or work experience towards a Seneca course they may apply for PLAR to demonstrate their competency and potentially earn course credit. Candidates may demonstrate their prior learning experience/knowledge either through a challenge exam, portfolio submission, or another assessment method indicated by the academic area. If a candidate is successful in an assessment, a grade will appear on their transcript in the same format as if they had taken the course and will be included in their Grade Point Average \(GPA\). Unsuccessful prior learning credit attempts will not be reflected on a candidate’s transcript. ##   PLAR Assessment   #### How is PLAR assessed? PLAR is assessed using various methods that are determined on a course-by-course basis by the academic program area. Candidates may be required to write an exam, complete an assignment or put together a portfolio, among other possible assessment methods. Please note that depending on the nature of the assessment, you may be required to complete it in person. Assessments are divided into two categories: **1. Challenge Process:** A method of written and non-written assessments developed by faculty subject matter experts to measure an individual’s previous learning achievements and/or knowledge against the subject learning outcomes of a specific course. **2. Portfolio:** A collection of documents, objects and other materials compiled by the PLAR candidate that identifies learning achievements and documents work and life experiences. ##   PLAR and Transcripts   #### How does PLAR appear on my transcript? Successful PLAR attempts will appear on your transcript in the same format as they would if you had taken the course. If a course normally results in a letter grade, your prior learning credit will appear on your transcript as a letter grade. This type of prior learning credit will contribute to your GPA. If a course is normally graded as a SAT/UNSAT, it will appear on your transcript as a SAT. This type of prior learning credit will not contribute to your GPA. Unsuccessful PLAR attempts will be recorded on your student record but will not appear on your transcript. ##   Length of PLAR Process   #### How long is the PLAR process? The PLAR process typically takes four to six weeks, but can take up to eight weeks. Candidates who apply early will allow appropriate lead times for assessments, ensuring deadlines indicated on the [Office of the Registrar’s Important Academic Dates](https://students.senecapolytechnic.ca/spaces/135/important-academic-dates/wiki/view/728/important-academic-dates) page are met. ##   Fees   #### Are there fees associated with PLAR? Starting Fall 2025, there will be no fees associated with PLAR applications or assessments. ##  PLAR Course Load  #### For how many courses can I seek PLAR? Up to 75 per cent of courses in certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or graduate certificate programs can be earned through prior learning credits. Up to 50 per cent of courses in a degree-level program can be earned through prior learning credits. ##   Tuition and/or OSAP Impacts   #### How does PLAR impact my tuition and/or OSAP? A student’s tuition and/or Ontario Student Assistance Plan \(OSAP\) may be impacted if their course load drops below that of a full-time student because of credits earned through PLAR. Please contact Seneca’s [Financial Aid Office](mailto:theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca) for any questions regarding OSAP eligibility. ##   Courses Eligible for PLAR   #### Which courses are eligible for PLAR? Most courses are eligible for PLAR consideration. Some courses and programs may have additional PLAR eligibility requirements and/or restrictions. If you are unsure if a course is eligible for PLAR, please reach out to the Transfer Credit and PLAR Office at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca ##   Course Outlines   #### Where can I access course outlines? Course outlines are available through Seneca’s [Search Classes](https://syl.senecapolytechnic.ca/) page. Search using the Seneca course code \(e.g., ABC123\) to find the appropriate course outline. If you are unable to obtain the current course outline from either of the above resources, please contact the Transfer Credit and PLAR Office at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca who will assist you with obtaining the correct course outline. ##   Contact Us  #### Who can I contact about PLAR? Candidates are welcome to connect with the Transfer Credit and PLAR Office at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca ##   Courses from Other Institutions   #### Can I request a PLAR assessment for courses previously taken at another postsecondary institution? Students who have completed courses from an external postsecondary educational institution are recommended to explore options for transfer credit. Please visit [Transfer Credits](https://students.senecapolytechnic.ca/spaces/128/transfer-credits/home) for more information. ##   Appeals   #### Can I appeal a decision? Yes, a candidate may appeal a PLAR decision in accordance with Seneca’s [Academic Appeals Policy](https://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-appeal-policy.html). ##   Accommodations   #### What options are available for candidates who need accessibility support during the PLAR process? Candidates requiring accessibility support may utilize approved accommodations or additional resources through [Accessible Learning Services](https://students.senecapolytechnic.ca/spaces/122/accessible-learning-services/home). The PLAR Office is pleased to assist candidates throughout the application process.