More Ways to Earn Credit
Veterans and military service members, your military training holds academic value! Our college partners specialize in evaluating your education, training, or college-level exams to award deserved credit. Imagine saving a semester's worth of time and tuition!
Global Military Learning Network (GMLN) is committed to recognizing the educational importance of learning accomplished outside traditional academic settings. Several of the GMLN bridge programs offer options to receive additional college credit through Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).
Don't wait—unlock your academic potential and earn credit for what you’ve learned!
You may be eligible for academic credit through:
What is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)?
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows colleges to recognize and evaluate the learning you have gained outside of the classroom, awarding college credit for technical, administrative, and leadership skills. Ways to demonstrate prior learning include:
- Credit by exam (e.g., CLEP, DSST)
- Course-equivalency assessment
- Portfolio assessment
- Competency-based assessment
Can I get credit for what I already know?
At Minnesota State, we recognize you have a wealth of skills and knowledge gained through life, work and community-based experiences. That’s why our colleges and universities offer opportunities to earn academic credit for the knowledge you already possess.
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is academic credit awarded to students who successfully demonstrate college or university-level learning achieved through informal or formal learning outside of the classroom. You can have your learning evaluated for academic credit, saving you time and money towards earning your degree.
Explore Your CPL Possibilities!
My Credit for Prior Learning (MyCPL) is a Minnesota State platform that helps students earn credit for demonstrating college/university level knowledge.
How do I request a CPL assessment?
- After being accepted into a program, contact the college Registrar’s Office to request a CPL assessment.
- The course instructor will determine the appropriate method for assessing competency (e.g., test-out exam, portfolio, research paper, oral exam, demonstration, etc.).
- A fee will be assessed and must be paid before faculty evaluation.
- If credit is not awarded, you will need to take the course.
It is recommended to complete the CPL assessment in the term prior to when the course would normally be taken.
What is a Joint Services Transcript (JST) and how do I request one?
The Joint Services Transcript (JST) provides a record of military training and experience for service members in the Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy.
- Request a Joint Services Transcript (Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy)
- JST Info from MilitaryOneSource
How do I request an Air Force transcript?
A Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) or Air University (AU) transcript is an official record of a student's academic achievements and credits which is used to document military training and coursework for Air Force personnel.
For Air Force personnel, academic credit is documented through:
- Community College of the Air Force (CCAF)
- Air University (AU)
See Air University Transcript Request Instructions for both CCAF and AU.
What is Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) and CLEP?
These programs are designed to support the educational goals of military members, recognizing the skills and knowledge you acquired during your service. It's always advisable for individuals to check with their education services office or counselor for the most up-to-date information on eligibility, available exams, and reimbursement processes.
DANTES
DANTES is a program that supports members of the U.S. military in pursuing education and training opportunities. It provides a range of resources and services to help military personnel with non-traditional education, including exam reimbursement, test preparation materials, and counseling services.
Visit the DANTES website to learn more about the free and low-cost resources available to military service members and veterans.
CLEP
CLEP is a series of exams developed by the College Board that allows individuals to earn college credit for knowledge acquired through independent study, prior coursework, or on-the-job training. Military service members can take advantage of CLEP exams to demonstrate their proficiency in various subjects and earn college credits.
DANTES often covers the cost of CLEP exams for eligible military personnel, making it a cost-effective way for service members to earn college credit. Save Time & Money. Graduate Sooner with CLEP Exams. The average exam takes only a few hours vs. an 8-15 week college course.
What is the ACE Military Guide?
The American Council on Education (ACE) Military Guide evaluates military training and experience, assigning recommended credit values that colleges and universities can accept.
How it works: ACE collaborates with the Department of Defense (DoD) to evaluate military training courses and occupations for college credit recommendations. Learn more
Why it matters: Many institutions use ACE recommendations to award credit, helping you maximize your military education benefits.