Credit for Prior Learning
There are 5 ways to get credit for prior college-level learning. Up to 30% of the credits for an Andrews degree may be earned through prior college-level learning.
1. Advanced Placement
Some high schools offer courses at the college level with the option to take standardized exams. Andrews grants credit for scores above varying minimums on the following exams:
• Cambridge International
scores of M3 or higher
• College Board (AP) – Andrews University equivalents
scores of 3, 4 or 5 (varies by course)
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
scores on 4+ for general requirements
scores of 5+ for major requirements
• European Advanced Standing
Andrews may grant varying amounts of general education credits (0-32) to students graduating from European gymnasiums. Discuss options with your advisor.
2. Standardized Exams
• College Level Examination Program (CLEP) - Andrews University equivalents
scores of 62 or higher in science and language subject exams
scores of 50 or higher in all other subject exams
• DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST) - Andrews University equivalents
scores of 62 or higher in science and language subject exams
scores of 50 or higher in all other subject exams
• Excelsior College (UEXCEL) - Andrews University equivalents
scores of B or higher on all language and science exams
scores of C or higher in all other subject exams
Note:
• Standardized exams may be taken through any recognized testing center. Request an original transcript be sent directly to Undergraduate Admissions.
• CLEP and DSST exams administered at the Andrews Counseling and Testing Center (located in Bell Hall 123, x3470) will count towards residency requirements.
• No credit will be granted by exam for College Writing I & II.
3. Departmental Challenge Exams
A limited amount of credit may be earned through departmentally constructed written, oral or skill assessments, or nationally formed professional examinations administered by the department. For example, modern language and biblical knowledge may be assessment by departments to waive some general education requirements.
• Contact the department chair for specific information.
• Frequently asked questions
4. Validation or Proficiency Assessments
Special assessments may also be taken for reasons other than earning credit. Certain published curricular or degree requirements may be waived, or transfer credits from an unaccredited college or training program may be validated through special examinations. For further information, contact the dean of the respective school.
Andrews University may recognize college-level learning through professional development and training which led to certification or testing recognized by entities such as:
• The American Council on Education (ACE)
Credit for courses & exams from nontraditional studies
• The National College Credit Recommendation Service
NCCRS translates noncollegiate learning into college credits
5. Prior Learning Assessment through Portfolio Evaluations
Adult learners (24 years and older) may apply for academic credit for learning through personal achievements and professional expertise. Evaluations are done on a course-by-course basis through portfolios including reflections on what was learned and documentation of college level learning aligned with specific course outcomes.
• Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) options at Andrews
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Talk with your academic advisor, then work with the PLA Coordinator to best apply for credit.