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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

At ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ, we recognize that learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. RPL allows you to earn credit for learning gained through:

  • Formal learning at a recognized post‑secondary institution (including ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ)
  • Non-formal learning such as workshops, seminars, or on-the-job training
  • Informal learning developed through daily activities such as work, community, or life experience 

No matter how you gained your knowledge, RPL provides a pathway to demonstrate your learning and apply for credit towards your program of study. There is no cost to apply for RPL.

Are you a prospective student wondering what credit you might be eligible to receive? Review the Evaluated Courses Master List (ECML), to see which courses have previously been assessed.

Before You Apply

To support the timely and accurate processing of your application, please review the following requirements and ensure you are eligible and prepared prior to submission.

Confirm your Eligibility for RPL

To be eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), you must:

  • Be admitted to a full-time ½ûÂþÌìÌà program or certain programs offered through the School of Professional and Part-Time Learning (PPL)*
  • Have paid your confirmation deposit in full
  • Be in good academic and financial standing with the College at the time of application

*Students enrolled in the Early Childhood Education or Educational Support part-time programs through PPL may also be eligible for RPL provided certain conditions are met.

** Some courses are not eligible for RPL. See Courses Not Eligible for RPL to learn more.

Deadlines to Apply for RPL

If you are eligible to apply for RPL, please note the following:

  • RPL applications must be submitted by the Monday following the first week of classes in the term for which you are requesting RPL.
  • RPL applications based on non-formal or informal learning must have the required equivalency portfolio submitted in the RPL Portfolio Brightspace course by the term deadline. Review the RPL Credit Equivalency Portfolio for additional details.
  • RPL applications and equivalency portfolios submitted after this date will not be accepted.

Examples using the :

Program StartFirst Day of ClassesDeadline to Apply
Fall 2026Tuesday, September 8Monday, September 14
Winter 2027Monday, January 11Monday, January 18

Note: If the curriculum for the program to which you have been admitted is under revision, your application will be placed on hold until the curriculum is finalized.

Review Academic Requirements

RPL applications are subject to the following criteria:

  • Prior learning must have been completed within seven (7) years prior to the date of your RPL application.
  • A minimum grade of 60% (or equivalent) in any previous courses being submitted for evaluation must have been obtained.
  • Required prerequisite courses must be successfully completed, or prior credit must have been granted towards the prerequisite course.
  • Review RPL policy and related documents.
Supporting Documentation

Supporting documentation is not required when you apply. To learn more about what documents may be requested during the application process, visit the RPL Document Requirements & Upload Guide.

Ready to Apply?

Once you have reviewed the information above, please visit the RPL Application Guide for next steps.

Need Assistance?

If you require support, use your to communicate directly with the RPL team or email us RPL@nbcc.ca.