Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for prior learning (also called CPL) is a means for meeting students where they are. We recognize that a lot of our students come to Forsyth Tech with experience that they have gained elsewhere. Whether it is courses you have taken in high school or at another college or real-world experience, we want to give you credit for the things you already know! Keep reading to learn more about the ways to receive credit for prior learning or email us at cpl@forsythtech.edu!
What is Credit for Prior Learning? Who Can Apply?
Credit for prior learning (CPL) is a way for you to receive credit towards completing your program for what you have already learned outside of Forsyth Tech. CPL is open to all. Inclusivity is the cornerstone of its power. It also saves you time and money, helping you achieve your educational and career goals more quickly.
CPL can include:
- Classes taken in high school
- Certifications or industrial credentials
- Military training
- On-the-job experience
- And many more!
Looking for someone to explore CPL options with you? Connect with a Success Coach!
Ways to Receive Credit
Credit for prior learning can be received in several ways at Forsyth Technical Community. Credits are awarded by one of the following methods:
Credit for Prior Learning from Exams
There are many tests or exams that may have earned you credit for prior learning!
Credit will be granted for a score of 3 or higher on examinations that are applicable to program requirements. To receive AP credit, students must provide the Admissions and Records Office with official score reports from the College Board
Credit will be awarded for the higher-level examinations if a score of 5 or higher is achieved. To receive credit for higher level exams, students must have the IB Organization send scores directly to the Admissions Office
Only subject examinations (not general examinations) will be considered for possible credit. Students must score at the 50th percentile or higher to receive credit. To receive credit for a CLEP subject exam, students must provide the Admissions Office with official score reports from the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB).
Credit will be awarded for acceptable scores on DANTES college-level examinations as recommended by the American Council on Education (ACE). To receive credit for a DANTES/DSST examination, students are required to provide the Admissions Office with official score reports.
Students who have been admitted to a specific program or are already enrolled in a program of study may request to take a proficiency exam for a course that has a proficiency exam available. Students must receive permission from the appropriate department chair to earn credit for the course by proficiency examination and must pay the testing fee before taking the exam. The form requesting a proficiency examination is available in the dean’s office for the academic division that oversees the course.
Request a Proficiency Exam Now!
Current credentials, certifications, and licensures that are applicable to your program of study can prove you have achieved the courses’ learning outcomes. You will need to provide proof that the credential(s) is up-to-date. Proof may include: badges or micro-credentials, certificates of completion or licensure, etc.
Articulation Agreements
What is an articulation agreement? An articulation document is an agreement between schools, colleges, or universities. It lays out a transfer plan between two program offerings and helps students by ensuring all completed classes (or credits) transfer and shows a clear pathway for continuing or completing their education.
When you finish certain classes in high school, you can get credit for them at Forsyth Tech. We can help you complete the following steps, or you can complete them on your own.
Steps:
- Ask your high school’s Career & Technical Education office to fill out the Articulated Credit agreement form
- Completed form and letter will be sent to you
- Submit the completed form to Admissions and Records Office
- You will be informed if your high school course earned you college credit
- Official transcripts, CTE post-assessment, other documents may be required
View the NC High School to Community College Articulation Agreement Here
Continuing education courses are taught here at Forsyth Tech and students can earn credit towards their program of study. Students must receive a grade of “C” or better.
Military Training
To receive credit based upon competencies gained through military training, the student must submit an official copy of one or more of the items listed to the Admissions Office. Or click here to contact our Veterans Resource Center directly by email – they’d be happy to help you!
- Joint Services Transcript (JST)
- ARMY AARTS transcript
- Navy/Marine Corps SMART transcript
- Community College of the Air Force transcript
- DD295 or 214
- Other official documentation recommended by ACE
- Recruit Training Course A-950-0001, NV-2202-0165 V03 = Forsyth Tech PED-152