Webinar Wednesday Recap: Transfer Credits and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Last week, we hosted a Webinar Wednesday session focused on Transfer Credits and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) at Fleming College. If you couldn’t join us virtually, don’t worry. Below are the highlights from the session, along with the full recording to watch at your convenience. 

During the webinar, students connected with Shannon Bellamy from Student Recruitment and Laura Perry, Transfer Credit and PLAR Coordinator in Fleming College’s Registrar’s Office, to learn how previous education and experience may count toward a Fleming program. 

Whether you’ve completed courses at another college or university, earned professional certifications, participated in workplace training or developed skills through employment or volunteer experience, there may be opportunities to receive recognition for learning you’ve already completed. 

What’s the Difference Between Transfer Credits and PLAR? 

Transfer Credits and PLAR both recognize prior learning, but they are designed for different situations. 

Transfer Credits are used when you have successfully completed a course at another recognized college or university that may be equivalent to a course required in your Fleming program. 

PLAR is designed to recognize learning gained outside of a traditional post-secondary classroom. This could include knowledge and skills developed through employment, workplace training, volunteer experience, military service, professional development, certifications or other life experiences. 

Three Key Takeaways 

1. Previous College or University Courses May Qualify for Transfer Credit 

If you’ve successfully completed a similar course at another recognized college or university, you may be eligible for Transfer Credit toward your Fleming program. 

Fleming compares your previous course with the equivalent Fleming course, including its learning outcomes and content. You’ll typically need an official transcript and a detailed course outline from the year you completed the course. 

Once you’ve accepted your offer and have access to myCampus, you can submit a Transfer Credit request through the Student Centre. You can also check Fleming’s Transfer Credit Search Tool to see if your course has been evaluated before. 

Approved Transfer Credits appear as an “X” grade and do not affect your GPA. 

2. PLAR Can Recognize Learning You’ve Gained Outside the Classroom 

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) may allow you to receive credit for knowledge and skills gained through employment, workplace training, certifications, volunteering or other experiences. 

Fleming’s FastPass tool can help you identify courses that may align with your previous learning. If you decide to pursue PLAR, your knowledge and skills will be assessed against the learning outcomes of the Fleming course. 

Depending on the course, the assessment may include a portfolio, challenge exam, interview, practical demonstration, assignment or project. Unlike Transfer Credit, PLAR is graded and the result is included in your GPA. 

3. Give Yourself Plenty of Time to Apply 

Timing matters. Students are encouraged to submit Transfer Credit requests at least 15 business days before the start of their program to allow time for assessment. 

If you’re already registered in the Fleming course, you’re seeking credit for, continue attending until your Transfer Credit is officially approved. 

PLAR applications for courses in your current semester must also be completed early in the term. Starting the process as soon as possible can help you understand your options and avoid complications with your timetable or program progression. 

How Much of Your Program Can Be Completed Through Transfer Credit or PLAR? 

Fleming students must complete at least 25 per cent of their program at Fleming College. 

There is no set limit on the number of Transfer Credits you can request, provided you still complete at least 25 per cent of your program at Fleming. 

Students can also PLAR up to 75 per cent of the courses in their program, again leaving at least 25 per cent to be completed at Fleming. 

Transfer Credit and PLAR may also be used for different courses within the same program. However, requirements can vary by program, so students are encouraged to connect with their Program Coordinator or the Transfer Credit and PLAR team to discuss their individual situation. 

Check Out The Full Webinar:

Have Questions or Want to Learn More?

If you have questions about Transfer Credits or PLAR, our team is available to help you understand your options, application requirements and next steps. 

For general questions about becoming a Fleming student, Student Recruitment can help you explore programs, admission requirements, campus tours and your next steps. 

Be sure to check out our upcoming Webinar Wednesday sessions online. We’re hosting new topics throughout the year to help you learn more about Fleming and prepare for your college experience. 

Can’t Make it to a Live Webinar Event?

No problem! We’ll save video recordings on Fleming’s official YouTube channel. And don’t worry, Program Coordinators are always available to answer your questions!    

For more information about Webinar Wednesdays, please contact Student Recruitment.