3.3.4 Advanced Standing/Test-Outs/Experiential Learning

Policy

Advanced standing is course credit granted on the basis of proficiency acquired through learning other than formal credit-based college classes, such as test outs or experiential learning. In order for a student to be awarded credit based on experiential learning, the student must document that they have mastered a minimum of 75% of the course goals.

Procedure

In the case of Intro to Computer, Beginning Personal Computers and Personal Computer Skills, Alexandria Technical & Community College has developed a test-out that can be taken. For these courses only, contact the Library. A non-refundable test administration fee of $30 must be paid at the Business Office prior to testing.

Any other prior learning will need to be evaluated by an instructor on an individualized basis. Students should contact the Registrar’s Office for the paperwork to begin the process. It is recommended that this be completed in the term prior to the term the class would normally be completed. The instructor will determine the appropriate method for a student to demonstrate his/her competency (i.e., challenge exam, portfolio, research paper, oral exam, demonstration, etc., or any combination of these). Requests for experiential learning credit acquired outside of the college require official documentation from the outside source (former employer, supervisor, official certificates, etc.).

The fee for earning credits through institutional test-outs or evaluations is $30 per credit. In the case of the test-outs (Intro to Computer, Beginning Personal Computers, and Personal Computer Skills), this fee will only be charged to students who successfully pass the test. In the case of other test-outs or an experiential learning evaluation, the fee is payable upfront and is non-refundable.

Test-outs will be recorded on the transcript with a CR (credit) if the student was successful or a NC (no credit), if the student did not pass the test-out. If the request for experiential learning is approved, a CR is recorded on the transcript. However, no notation is recorded on the transcript if the request is not approved. The student’s GPA is not impacted in either situation.