Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a process that gives you the opportunity to obtain academic credit (a grade) for a George Brown College course by demonstrating that you have acquired the equivalent skills and knowledge through your life experiences. These experiences may include work, training, independent study, volunteering, travel, hobbies and/or family experiences. PLAR is not equal to a course exemption.

PLAR is done on a course-by-course basis so, even if you have multiple courses for which you would like PLAR, you must request and acquire PLAR for each course individually.

To be eligible for PLAR credit, you must have a secondary school diploma or be at least 19 years old and ensure your George Brown College course qualifies for PLAR. (Some courses do not qualify for PLAR, so contact the department co-ordinator to find out if your course is eligible.)

To request PLAR for an eligible course, follow these steps:

  1. Obtain the George Brown College course outline from the department co-ordinator.
  2. Use the course outline to complete the PLAR Self-assessment Word form that can be found on the college-wide Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) web page.
  3. If you are confident that you can meet the course learning outcomes through your prior learning after completing the self-assessment form, complete the Application for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) PDF form that can be found on the college-wide Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) web page.
  4. Email your completed PLAR Self-assessment form and Application for PLAR form to your department co-ordinator. You are encouraged to send a copy of your current resumé as well.
  5. If there are no issues, the co-ordinator will sign your application form and send all your documents to the Registrar's Office. The Registrar's Office will apply the administrative fee to your student account. (PLAR fees are non-refundable and not eligible for the employee discount.)
  6. Once your PLAR application is processed, the co-ordinator will advise you on how you will need to complete your PLAR assessment and will establish a timeline for completion. Your learning may be assessed by one, or a combination of, the following methods:
    • case studies
    • exams (written or oral)
    • interviews
    • portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills

Your learning will be evaluated and, if credit is granted, you will receive a grade for your assessment. This grade will appear on your transcript and will be included in any grade point average (GPA) calculations (if applicable).

For more information, visit the college-wide Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) web page. If you disagree with a PLAR decision, you can initiate an academic appeal. For more information, check out the college-wide Academic Appeals Policy.