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Scope

This procedure forms part of JIBC’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition Policy (the “Policy”) and provides direction and processes for Students wishing to have their previous knowledge considered towards completion of a �黨��Ʒcredential program. Terms not otherwise defined in this procedure are as defined in the Policy. 

Procedural Guiding Principles

• PLAR credits will be awarded only to those Students who have applied for, and been accepted into, �黨��Ʒcredential programs.
• Students submitting documents from institutions outside Canada may be required to have their documents evaluated by an accredited international credential evaluation service such as . Supporting documents in a language other than English or French must be translated to English at the Student’s expense.
• In some cases, �黨��Ʒprograms may offer unique learning opportunities that they wish to guarantee for their Students and in such cases will not allow credit from prior learning assessment.
• Credit earned through PLAR from other Canadian accredited post-secondary institutions will not be accepted. Students must complete the PLAR process through �黨��Ʒto receive credit.
• Students accepted into �黨��Ʒprograms are required to meet the residency requirement as per �黨��ƷPolicy 3306 Program Completion and Credentials.
• PLAR credits will be allocated towards the �黨��Ʒcredential in which a Student is enrolled. If a Student changes programs, any JIBC-awarded PLAR credits are subject to review to determine their applicability to the new program. Awarded credits may be adjusted up or down. Students seeking additional credits above the initial award may be required to submit an additional PLAR application.
• PLAR credits awarded in a completed �黨��Ʒprogram that forms part of an intentional sequence of laddering into a higher-level �黨��Ʒprogram will be carried forward into that higher-level program.
• Students may not submit the same material for PLAR assessment towards a second course.
• Students are advised to consult with the Financial Aid Office regarding any impacts a PLAR assessment would have on eligibility for student aid.
• PLAR is not available to Students currently on suspension.

Fees

Fees are applicable for each PLAR assessment as outlined on the relevant application form, are payable at the time the application, and are non-refundable. PLAR fees are for the assessment of the application and not the value awarded.

Process

Students applying for PLAR credits are required to complete and submit either the Prior Learning Assessment Application form or the Professional Training Transfer form as appropriate, with applicable fees, to the Registrar’s Office. PLAR assessment will not commence until all required fees have been received. Completed Prior Learning Assessment Application forms may be submitted to the Registrar’s Office electronically, by mail, or by fax. Forms are available on the �黨��Ʒwebsite and from Student Services.

Students will be required to document their learning of specific knowledge and skills related to the course or program learning outcomes, objectives, or competencies for which PLAR credit is requested. Documentation must support learning statements and may include, but are not restricted to, the following: 

• personal portfolios;
• non-credit certificates/diplomas;
• certificates of completion issued by licensed or accredited organizations;
• work products and artifacts;
• Challenge Exams (written, oral, performance examinations, product assessment, standardized exams); and
• performance evaluations (e.g. role-plays; live, video or audio presentations; lab demonstrations; simulations; work-site demonstrations). 

The division/program will determine the appropriate assessment techniques.

A content specialist qualified in the appropriate area of expertise, discipline and/or Indigenous knowledge, and identified by the division/program will determine the assessment and assignment of PLAR credit.

Decisions regarding PLAR credits, as determined and recommended by the content specialist, are final. A Student may appeal the process that was followed if the Student believes the procedure followed in a PLAR assessment was conducted in a manner that was not procedurally fair and impartial.

To file an appeal based on procedural fairness, Students need to follow the processes outlined in �黨��ƷPolicy 3303 Final Grade Appeals.

Related Policies and Procedures

• 3202 Prior Learning and Recognition Policy
• 3303 Final Grade Appeals Policy
• 3306 Program Completion and Credentials Policy

Documents and Forms

• Prior Learning Assessment Application Form
• Professional Training Transfer Application Form