Credit for Prior Learning

Approved by the Fullerton College Curriculum Committee

On April 16, 2025

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is college credit awarded for validated college-level knowledge and skills gained outside of a traditional college setting. A student with a recognized educational plan currently enrolled at Fullerton College may receive CPL in lieu of a comparable course or graduation requirement, including elective credit, listed in the current college catalog.  Accredited-in-state and accredited out-of- state coursework that appears on an official transcript are not included within this CPL section.

Students seeking CPL must submit a petition with the appropriate division. Final approval is determined by the respective division office and discipline faculty.

CPL details, including procedures, eligibility, and awarding of equivalency can be found on the CPL information page located on the college website. Students are encouraged to meet with counselors to determine if the CPL review process is beneficial to their specific academic goals.

Fullerton College may use any of the following methods for awarding CPL:

  • Credit by examination
  • Evaluation of Joint Services Transcripts (military)
  • Evaluation of student-created portfolios
  • Evaluation of current (valid) industry-recognized credentials
  • Standardized Exams
  • Additional department specific methods

CPL units awarded cannot count toward residency (12) for degree programs.

There shall be a process which offers students the opportunity to accept, decline, or appeal decisions related to credit by exam.

The Board of Trustees must review CPL policy every three years and report the findings to the Chancellor’s Office.  The report must include student data per title 5.

Credit for Military Training

In alignment with the practice of the CSU Chancellor’s Office, Fullerton College certifies 3 units of transferable credit including full completion of Area E on the CSU General Education (GE) pattern for students who submit the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214) indicating the completion of basic training. The intention is to award credit for the “Lifelong Learning” experience veterans get in Basic Training, which is documented on the DD-214 form. In lieu of CSU GE, students can also use the 3 units of transferable credit toward completion of Area E on the Fullerton College AA/AS General GE pattern. In addition to GE, Fullerton College also will grant prior credit for the 1-unit PE Requirement for Graduation.