What is PLAR?

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), is a process that helps you reflect on, identify, organize and describe your significant learning. This can include skills and knowledge gained from all aspects of your life — work experience, travel, volunteer work, formal education, self study and so on.

As an adult learner, you might want to have your prior learning evaluated to see if you already know what is required to succeed in a course, qualify for a credential, or be recognized by an employer or a professional organization. For example, if you want to earn a professional certificate, you need to provide proof of what you know and what you can do that is directly related to the certificate. The professional organization then assesses your learning and tells you what courses or training you still need to qualify for the certificate. Or perhaps you might qualify for it already. Not all organizations recognize prior learning but more accept it all the time.

Click here for more detailed information about the PLAR process.