Credit for Prior Learning FAQs

Credit for Prior Learning recognizes college level learning you have gained through professional experience, military training, certifications, apprenticeships, or approved training. Credit is awarded only when your documented learning aligns with specific course outcomes at UAFS.

CPL supports working adults, transfer students, military service members and veterans, and current UAFS students who bring college level learning from previous training or experience.

Submit a request for evaluation. A CPL specialist reviews your background, helps you identify an appropriate pathway, and explains what documentation you will need to demonstrate your learning.

Evaluators compare the learning you document with the published learning outcomes of a UAFS course. Credit is awarded only when your evidence shows you have achieved the same level of knowledge and skill students gain through that course.

No. CPL does not replace required coursework. It recognizes learning you have already mastered at a college level. If your documented learning does not meet the outcomes of a particular course, you complete the course as usual.

A portfolio is a structured submission that explains how your learning aligns with course outcomes. It may include narratives, examples of work, verified training, and supporting documents. Faculty evaluators use established rubrics to assess the portfolio.

Faculty members and trained evaluators review your materials. Decisions are based on documented learning, alignment with course outcomes, and academic standards established by UAFS.

Most reviews are completed within a few weeks. Your evaluator will keep you updated and notify you when a decision has been made.

You receive written results showing which credits were awarded and how they apply to your degree plan. Approved credits are added to your official UAFS transcript.

 Your evaluator explains the decision and may recommend another CPL pathway or appropriate coursework that supports your progression toward degree completion.

Yes. You may request a review if you believe additional evidence or clarification should be considered.

You may earn up to 30 credit hours through CPL. These credits can help reduce overall time and cost toward your degree.

 No. CPL credits do not include letter grades and do not impact your GPA.

Transcript based evaluations have no fee. Portfolio assessments and standardized exams may include a cost. You will receive fee information before beginning any CPL pathway.

No. CPL credits are considered non-traditional credit and do not count toward residency requirements for graduation. UAFS policy defines residency as credit hours earned through UAFS coursework. Students must still meet all residency requirements outlined in the university catalog.

Prerequisite decisions depend on academic department review. CPL credit does not automatically meet prerequisite requirements. In some cases, a department may determine that the learning demonstrated through CPL meets the prerequisite outcome, but this must be approved in advance. Students should consult their advisor and the academic department before relying on CPL credit to satisfy prerequisites.

  No. CPL does not replace the learning required for your degree. Credit is awarded only when the documented learning you have already completed aligns directly with a UAFS course’s learning outcomes. If the learning does not meet those outcomes, you complete the course as usual.

Transfer policies vary. While CPL credits appear on your UAFS transcript, each institution decides how those credits apply to its programs.

 UAFS reviews your Joint Services Transcript or Community College of the Air Force record using ACE recommendations. When your documented military learning aligns with course outcomes, credit may be awarded at the appropriate level.

 GEM allows Airmen and Guardians to complete required general education courses at UAFS and transfer them back to the 
Air University (formerly Community College of the Air Force)
 to meet associate degree requirements. This supports promotion eligibility and timely degree completion.

CPL does not reduce eligibility for VA benefits or Tuition Assistance. Portfolio or exam fees are not covered by these programs.

CPL reduces costs by awarding credit for college level learning you have already completed. When credit is approved, you do not take that course at UAFS, which means you avoid the associated tuition and mandatory fees for those credit hours. By needing fewer courses to graduate, many students also shorten the time it takes to complete their degree.

 A CPL specialist can guide you through your options, help you prepare documentation, and support you through each step of the evaluation process.