Prior Learning Assessment Glossary Definition

Prior Learning Assessment is an assessment process that evaluates college-level, occupational, or program-relevant Learning acquired outside traditional coursework.

Prior Learning Assessment is closely related to Recognition of Prior Learning, but PLA is common in U.S. higher education and adult-learning contexts. In U.S. contexts, compare the term with local adult education, workforce, and credential language before treating it as identical. Some usage is tied to U.S. adult education policy or reporting and should be read in that context.