If you are a student enrolled at Smith Christian University, prior learning assessment is a process that may save you time and money in completing your degree program.

Prior learning assessment determines if learning received outside of the traditional university classroom is equivalent to academic curriculum and eligible for college credit. Prior learning assessment applies only to associate's or bachelor's degree programs. Any credit awarded is limited to elective or general education requirements.

After a student is enrolled, all acceptable previous college course work reflect on an official transcript, will be transferred in and all non-collegiate experience is reviewed to determine if the individual has adequate experience to justify the university awarding credit for prior learning experience.

Smith Christian University will extend to the student the opportunity for the student to validate and provide validation through documentation, and verifiable evidence of competence for any of the courses required in the chosen program. Each student is required to submit a complete Student Portfolio, in accordance with the SCU Student Portfolio Guidelines.

The student will be required to submit evidence to their Academic Advisor that the Student has met the requirements for each Course. Additionally, at the undergraduate level, students may request "Credit by Experiential Learning" for General Elective courses and courses in their major. For areas where an adequate level of competence is identified, students will receive credit and receive advance standing.

The student will be informed of the required course to complete their individualized program. Students may request a copy of the Student Portfolio Guidelines through the SCU Admissions Office or their personal Academic Advisor. All students are individually evaluated by an Academic Advisor, then approval may or may not be gained through a vote by the Assessment Committee.