Prior learning assessments are done on a course-by-course basis.
If a candidate believes a course covers material they already know, they can apply for prior learning credit and request an assessment.
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 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.
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.
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.
The PLAR process typically takes four to six weeks, but can take up to eight weeks.
It is strongly recommended that candidates apply prior to the tenth day of classes for full-time courses and before the third scheduled class for continuing education courses.
Candidates who apply early will allow appropriate lead times for assessments, ensuring deadlines indicated on the Office of the Registrar’s Important Academic Dates page are met.
There is a fee of $107 per assessment.
The PLAR assessment fee is non-refundable and must be paid prior to initiating the PLAR assessment process. You will only be charged the PLAR assessment fee once your eligibility has been confirmed by the academic program area.
PLAR fees will be posted to your Financial Account. Please visit our Fee Payment website for instructions on making a payment.
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.
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 for any questions regarding OSAP eligibility.
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 Officer at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca
Full time course outlines can be found by searching the Seneca Subject Outlines page by subject code (e.g. ABC123).
Course outlines for courses offered through the Faculty of Continuing Education and Training can be found by searching the Search for Course Outline page.
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.
Candidates are welcome to connect with the Transfer Credit and PLAR Office at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca
Students who have completed courses from an external postsecondary educational institution are recommended to explore options for transfer credit. Please visit Transfer Credits for more information.
Yes, a candidate may appeal a PLAR decision in accordance with Seneca’s Academic Appeals Policy.
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