Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
PLAR is a process that allows you to identify, document and have assessed for recognition, your prior learning and skills. Your learning may be formal, informal or experiential.
Ways You Can Acquire Post-Secondary Level Training
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Testimonial
Testimonial
Chris Dennis
After 30+ years away from education, at 51, I decided to pursue post-secondary studies while working in Office Administration. Meeting with Fanshawe College's Registrar's Office, I was surprised to learn I could challenge up to 75% of courses through PLAR for a flat fee.
I enrolled in the one-year Office Administration program and successfully completed the maximum PLAR courses within 4 months. Living 2 hours from London, I was able to take tests at the nearby Fanshawe-Simcoe Campus.
From initial meeting to graduation in less than a year, the process was stress-free and enjoyable. The support staff and professors at both campuses were exceptional, confirming I chose the right college. The skills gained enhanced my job performance and helped me secure a promotion at work.
Office Administration Executive Certificate, Fanshawe College
PLAR
International Students
International students are encouraged to consider any impact to their current study permit and working eligibility, or impacts to their future post-graduate work permit eligibility, if their course load drops below that of a full-time student because of credits earned through PLAR. Contact an Immigration Consultant at the International Centre to learn more.
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Credits Through PLAR
You may be eligible to receive credit for up to 50% of a college bachelor’s degree or up to 75% of other college programs through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). The amount of credit awarded depends on the nature and extent of your prior learning and how well it aligns with the learning outcomes of your chosen program.
Important: To graduate with a Fanshawe College credential, you must meet the college residency requirement, which means completing at least 25% of your program’s credit units at Fanshawe. Degree programs are also subject to requirements set by the Postsecondary Education Quality Assessment Board (PEQAB).
PLAR Assessment
Challenge Evaluation
- Written exam
- Oral exam
- Project and/or presentation
- Skill demonstration
- Interview
- Essay
Portfolio
- Chronological and academic records
- Life history paper
- Goals paper
- Educational plan
- Learning outcomes or competency statements
- Verification of learning (documentation)
- Resumé
Note: Other modes of assessment may be used depending on the nature of the course.
Apply For PLAR
- Contact an Admissions and Pathways Advisor in the Office of the Registrar, by phone at 519-452-4277 or email at advising@fanshawec.ca.
- The PLAR application fee is $105 per course. This fee applies to both the challenge evaluation and the portfolio assessment. The fee is non-refundable.
- If you fail to prove that you have met the learning outcomes, you are not eligible for a refund. If you have paid for a challenge evaluation and then decide to take the course instead, you are not eligible for a refund. You should review the course material before deciding to complete a challenge evaluation.
Check out Fanshawe's Open Educational Resource on PLAR for detailed information on the PLAR process, timelines and PLAR resources for students.
PLAR Affecting OSAP
If your course load drops below that of a full-time student because of credits earned through PLAR, your eligibility for financial assistance through the Ontario Student Assistance Plan (OSAP) might be affected. PLAR candidates are encouraged to contact Financial Aid and Student Awards for questions about OSAP eligibility.
PLAR Learner Guide
A PLAR Learner Guide is a resource for candidates and students to help them decide whether they should move forward with a PLAR application. Learner Guides are developed for specific courses and contain general PLAR information, as well as detailed course information relevant for applicants wishing to PLAR the specific course.
Book an appointment with an Admissions and Pathways Advisor, or contact your Program Coordinator to inquire about PLAR and see if a Learner Guide is available for the course you wish to PLAR.