Exemptions

An exemption based on another credit course or courses may be granted for a credit course that is part of a student’s program.

Normally, credit will only be granted for courses taken at accredited institutions with a grade of 60% or better, with the exception of Bachelor degrees in applied studies which require 65% or better. Exemptions are granted on an individual basis and involve the examination of previous educational credentials.

For more information, please contact the Office of the Registrar which is located on the ground floor of the Administrative Centre Building at the Barrie Campus.

Office hours are Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Telephone: (705)722-1511
Fax: (705)722-5118
e-mail: registrar@georgianc.on.ca

Download the Prior Learning Assessment form

Many individuals acquire college-level learning and skills through various work and life experiences such as:

• Work experience
• Community involvement
• Professional associations – volunteer experience
• Self-directed study
• Travel
• Non-credit courses
• Hobbies

PLAR is for adult learners who have significant work and life experience and learning which may be equivalent to a college credit. It involves the assessment and evaluation of acquired comparable knowledge and skills that match the learning outcomes of a Georgian College course. The focus of assessment is on evaluation of learning using a variety of techniques. Learning is assessed on an individual basis. The learning should be current and relevant to the program and have sufficient depth to meet college level learning.

What are the benefits of Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition?

Benefits to students:

• validates learning gained through work and life experience
• encourages applicants to pursue education
• eliminates duplication of learning
• may reduce the cost of education: tuitionbookssupplies
• may shorten the time to complete a college program
• increases access
• helps with career development and future educational planning

Benefit to college:

• increases student recruitment and retention
• increases accessibility to a wide range of learners
• allows for opportunities for faculty to improve connections with business and industry

Benefit to society:

• fosters workplace partnerships with industry and institutions
• acknowledges lifelong learning and the importance of continued growth

FIRST STEP

The first step is to contact the Office of the Registrar to discuss educational plans, call, email or schedule an appointment. We will explain the process and the required documentation to support a PLAR request.

How to get started

Review program of study and program learning outcomes available online at www.georgianc.on.ca/programs/ or in the Academic Calendar.

Identify course(s) for which you think you may be eligible for credit through PLAR.

Applicants must complete a Request for Assessment of Prior Learning form and pay the non-refundable fee per course.

What methods are used to assess prior learning at Georgian College?

Prior learning can be assessed in a number of ways. Some methods include examination, performance observation, skills demonstration, interview and portfolio evaluation. Failed credit courses do not qualify for PLAR challenge unless documentation to support life and work experience is provided and the acquired learning has taken place after failing the course.

How will PLAR credit be awarded on a transcript?

Credits awarded through PLAR will be transcribed in the same way in which credits are normally transcribed in each course, without any indication that credits were acquired through PLAR. The result of a PLAR assessment is final and is NOT subject to appeal. Unsuccessful PLAR challenges are not recorded on the transcript.

How many credits can be granted with PLAR?

Learners may obtain up to 75 percent of their program certificate or diploma courses and 50 percent for a college degree program through PLAR. A course is challenged using PLAR based on life and work experience gained through one or more of the following: employment, training programs, non-credit courses, travel, volunteer and community work or special skills and interests.

Is it possible that a PLAR challenge may be unsuccessful?

Yes.

If there is not sufficient evidence that the learning outcomes have been met, a challenge can be deemed unsuccessful.

NOTE: If you are applying for assessment for a course in which you are currently enrolled you must continue to attend classes until the challenge process has been successfully completed.