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Credit for Prior Learning

Get college credit for what you already know
NLU honors learning that occurs outside of traditional classrooms.
Your prior work experiences, training, military service, and professional certifications may count toward your undergraduate or graduate degree at National Louis University - helping you save time and money.

How Do I Earn CPL at NLU?

Step 1 — Explore Your Options

Check with your Advisor or Coach about which of the approved CPL options below best fits your experience and NLU program. You can also take our Eligibility Quiz! 

Step 2 — Submit Your Materials

Once approved by your Advisor or Coach, submit your active credentials, register for an exam, or develop a portfolio for review

Step 3 — Wait for Evaluation Results

Faculty or CPL staff evaluators assess your submitted materials within a short timeframe. 

Step 4 — Receive Credit

Approved credits appear on your NLU transcript!

CPL via Credit by Portfolio

Demonstrate your college-level learning and competencies gained from work and personal experiences by submitting a portfolio. 

Review NLU's Multiple Portfolio Options

CPL via Credit by Credential

Turn your existing certifications or licensure into credit.

See Our List of Approved Credentials

CPL via Credit by Exam

Demonstrate mastery by taking a standardized examination

View NLU's Exam Options

Military Credits via American Council on Education (ACE)

Apply Joint Services Transcript (JST) or ACE-evaluated training.

How to Submit Military Credits
What is CPL? Overview Video
Take Our CPL Eligibility Quiz
CPL FAQs
For NLU Students: Join Our InvolveU Page for News on New Offerings!
CAEL Credit Predictor Tool
Questions? Contact Our Office!

Meet CPL Students and Alumni

“Credit for Prior Learning is not about earning credits; it’s about valuing yourself as a professional. CPL validated the years I have spent growing as an educator, caregiver, and community advocate."

Yolanda Payne

Early Childhood Education ‘26

"The CPL process was streamlined and tailored to fit my needs. NLU provided an economical opportunity with stellar professors who stuck with me through every step of my journey."

Dr. Rachel Maldonado

EdD Educational Leadership ‘25

“Working full-time and self-funding my education, I was so proud that NLU and my program offered Credit for Prior Learning options that recognized my time, financial constraints, and my overall experience as an accomplished grant writer."

Cherise Fanno Burdeen, PhD

Community Psych ‘25

Your Next Step is Within Reach.

With over 140 years of excellence and 100,000 alumni, we provide an extraordinary education that’s within your reach.

 
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