Skip to main content - Skip to contact information

Prior Learning Assessment (all ABT Programs)

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) involves ABT chair-facilitated evaluation of the knowledge and/or skills an individual may have gained through non-formal education/training or experience and the granting of appropriate credit by Vancouver Island University. Skills, knowledge and competencies that have been acquired through work experience, recognized or unrecognized education or training, self-study, volunteer activities, and other life experiences can be assessed for credit.

The processes include, but are not limited to, personal interview, challenge exam, portfolio, portfolio-assisted assessment, skill demonstration, oral or written exams, work samples, and assessment of credential(s) earned.

A course challenge or PLA assessment can be requested by an applicant once they have applied and been accepted into the ABT program. As the PLA process can be lengthy, students are advised to call (250) 740-6149 to book an appointment to meet with the ABT chair immediately upon being accepted into the program to discuss their candidacy for PLA.  Students are required to bring a current resume and other supporting documents to the meeting.  Once students are accepted as PLA candidates, they are registered as such and are charged a PLA assessment fee.

The following fee schedule is subject to change.

Assessment of one course under 75 hours ... $125.00
Assessment of one course 75-150 hours ... $250.00
Assessment of one course over 150 hours ... $375.00
Pre-existing format (exam) ... $100.00
Customized format (exam) ... $100.00

Credit will be granted when the ABT faculty assessor determines that the knowledge and/or skills acquired through prior learning are:

  • at the post-secondary level,
  • current,
  • consistent with the required objectives and outcomes of Vancouver Island University ABT programs and courses, and
  • demonstrated at the appropriate level of achievement.

Credit received through PLA will be so identified on the student’s transcript and is resident credit at Vancouver Island University.

Normally, students will not be allowed to request credit through course challenge or a comprehensive PLA assessment for a course if 

  • they have previously failed at the University;
  • an equivalent course already appears on their transcript, or
  • they have unsuccessfully challenged the course previously.