Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) can save you time and free you of repetitive training. Consider using PLAR, when your program contains a course that you have the prior experience or education.

PLAR is the process of identifying, assessing and recognizing skills and knowledge acquired through work experience, non-formal training, independent study, volunteer activities and hobbies.

The PLAR process compares your previous learning to SIAST course learning outcomes. You challenge the course by demonstrating your skills and knowledge through evidence or tests. Your demonstration of skill and knowledge is evaluated by a SIAST course content expert.

Evidence may include: work experience performance appraisals on-the-job training training courses from private organizations seminars and workshops independent study volunteer work community activities

Test methods may include: performance test written tests demonstrations simulations a portfolio interviews oral examinations work samples

If you have already taken courses from another institution approved by the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC), you may be eligible for transfer credit.

To find a PLAR-ready course:

1. Visit the PLAR Inventory Database and select your program of study from the first drop-down list of programs and submit.
   Information for courses often completed using PLAR:
   • Standardized Computer Courses PLAR Candidate Guide (pdf) and
     PLAR Fact Sheet (pdf)
   • Communication Courses PLAR Candidate Guide (pdf) and PLAR Fact Sheet (pdf)
2. Search the course name and code using the keyword search option to determine the PLAR availability for your program.
3. Start your PLAR process and your PLAR application (pdf)

Non-refundable and non-transferable assessment fees apply. Fees are based on the cost of PLAR services, not the cost of the credit awarded. Fees for apprenticeship and employer-sponsored students may already be included within their training agreement.

For information on a specific program, visit the program web page and look for the PLAR Fact Sheet and Candidate Guide or search the PLAR Inventory Database. 

For information and questions about PLAR, call 1-866-goSIAST (467-4278) or contact the nearest Counselling Services office.

Quality Assurance in PLAR SIAST, in partnership with The Canadian Institute for Recognizing Learning, Ryerson University, and the University of New Brunswick, examined quality assurance in PLAR. To inform, train and promote PLAR in post-secondary institutions, the research project partnership produced: PLAR Quality Assurance Guide (pdf) or in French (pdf) PLAR Issues and Strategies for Post-Secondary Institutions (pdf) Annotated Bibliography (pdf)