Turn Experience Into College Credit

Career and Transfer Planning

Heather Kilgore
Career and Transfer Coordinator
 hkilgore@glenoaks.edu
 269-294-4283

Earn College Credit for What You Already Know

At Glen Oaks Community College, we recognize that learning happens everywhere — not just in the classroom. Whether you've gained skills through work, military service, certifications, or self-directed study, your experience matters.

You may be eligible to receive college credit for that knowledge — helping you save time, reduce tuition costs, and accelerate your path to a degree or credential.

Which Credit Option Is Right for You?

Glen Oaks offers multiple ways to award college credit based on your experience or prior learning. Explore the options below to see how your background may translate into academic credit.

Credit by Experience

Turn your real-world experience into college credit
If you've received extensive hands-on training or worked in your field for several years, you may qualify for credit towards a Glen Oaks degree. Both paid and volunteer experiences are eligible.
 

How it works:

  • Submit details on your experience through the "Credit for Prior Learning" form in Etrieve. Use the contact information at the bottom of this page if you have any questions about completing the form.
  • Faculty and academic leadership will review your experience and provide next steps. Those steps may include creating a portfolio, a demonstration of skills, and/ or an interview.
  • If approved, the credit will appear on your transcript.

Cost: $50 per course reviewed

Ideal for skilled tradespeople, business professionals, healthcare workers, and more.

Credit by Certification

Leverage your industry credentials

Already earned professional certifications in your field? Glen Oaks may grant credit if your certifications align with course learning outcomes.

Examples include:

  • Medical Billing Certification
  • Microsoft or Cisco Certifications
  • Apprenticeship Program Credentials

How to apply:

  • Submit your certificate through the "Credit for Prior Learning" form in Etrieve.
  • Faculty and academic leadership will review your submission.
  • If approved, the credit will appear on your transcript.

Cost: Free

Credit by College-Level Examination

Get credit for AP, CLEP, DSST, IB, or Cambridge exams

Have you taken college-level exams? Glen Oaks awards credit for many nationally and internationally recognized testing programs.

Accepted Exams:

  • AP (Advanced Placement) – Scores of 3 or higher
  • CLEP – Subject exams for college-level proficiency
  • DSST (DANTES) – Military and adult learner exams
  • IB (International Baccalaureate) – Higher-level exams
  • Cambridge Assessment – Recognized global exams

How it Works

  • Send official test scores to transcripts@glenoaks.edu .
  • The Registrar's Office will review your scores and award equivalent credit.  
  • If you have questions about current exam equivalencies, please contact Academic Advising.
Cost:
  • National exams: Free
  • In-house exam (if needed): $50

Contact Academic Advising for current exam equivalencies.

Important Notes

  • Credit for Prior Learning does not guarantee transferability. Please consult with your future college or university.
  • A maximum of 45 credits earned through Prior Learning can be applied toward an associate degree at Glen Oaks.
  • No transcript entry is made if credit is not granted.
  • All requests are subject to review and approval by the Vice-President of Academics and faculty.

Ready to Get Started?

Visit: Career and Transfer Coordinator (located in Student Services Suite)
Call: 269-294-4283
Credit for Prior Learning form: Available in Etrieve